Next month there's an opportunity for talented local people to compete at the Abergavenny Eisteddfod.

The eisteddfod is held on two days: on March 14 for children and for young people, on June 20 for adults. The list of competitions is extensive and caters for a wide range of talents and interests including singing, music, dance and drama.

New competitions for young people this year include a story and mime competition, and a humorous duet.

Anyone who wishes to enter can access the eisteddfod web site: abergavennyeisteddfod.co.uk (in English) or eisteddfodyfenni.co.uk (in Welsh). Deadlines are February 25 (children aged five – 11), February 27 (compositions by young people aged 11-18) and March 4 (stage competitions for 11-18 year olds).

The deadline for adult entries – literature and stage competitions – is May 22. Updates will be posted on the new Twitter feed @EisteddfodAberg.

Since its revival in 2002 the Abergavenny eisteddfod has grown in reputation and in recent years has attracted many very high quality competitors from outside the local area. Its format follows that of the main eisteddfodau, but this is a bilingual event with Welsh and English holding equal status in all but the few Welsh language competitions.

Medals are awarded to the top three performances in each competition on March 14, and there are new, increased cash prizes at the young people's eisteddfod.

Another benefit to competitors is the expert judges' adjudication of each performance, giving valuable feedback.

For those starting their careers, eisteddfod competitions are a rewarding experience and for the winners an important and valuable addition to their CVs.