An album dedicated to Welsh music is aiming for chart success to help raise money for the National Eisteddfod held in Abergavenny this year.

The CD, ‘Llesiau Mynwy’, or ‘Voices of Monmouthshire’ features tracks made by pupils from King Henry VIII and Ysgol Gymraeg y Fenni, amongst other groups from surrounding areas.

All proceeds of the compilation, which was released on Tuesday go towards the cost of hosting the National Eisteddfod. The annual event returns to Monmouthshire after a 103-year absence.

Monmouth MP David Davies championed the idea of putting together the CD featuring local schools and choirs with the support of Nimbus Records.

Mr Davies, a fluent Welsh speaker, said he was ‘incredibly proud’ the national event was returning to Monmouthshire after a long hiatus.

“I hope this album, filled with voices of young and old, from every corner of the county, will remind us all of Monmouthshire’s Welsh heritage, whilst raising funds to ensure this year’s Eisteddfod is as successful as predecessors.”

The album, which also features groups and choirs from across Monmouthshire, will give every penny above cost towards Eisteddfod coffers, after Nimbus Records waived its usual production fee.

Mr Davies added, “I express my sincere gratitude to Antony Smith and his team at Nimbus who, not only donated time in the studio, but did a huge amount of work on editing and producing such a high-quality album.

“The fundraising project is potentially very lucrative, and I trust the county will now get behind it and purchase as many CDs as possible.

“If enough people buy the disc, there’s a good chance we’ll be able to get it registered as a specialist classical product and entered into the charts.”

Robin Davies, chair of Monmouth district eisteddfod appeal committee, said, “How fitting there should be a permanent reminder of the rich vocal talent of Monmouthshire as we prepare to welcome the National Eisteddfod.”

Priced at £10, Lleisiau Mynwy is available across the County councils’ One Stop Shops in Abergavenny, and via County Hall in Usk. Other outlets include Caldicot, Chepstow and Monmouth.

Orders can also be placed by emailing Alun Thomas, treasurer of the Committee, at [email protected].