MUSICAL director Michael Johnson is promising that this year's Devizes Eisteddfod will be the biggest since it first started in 1946.

The event was launched this week and programmes are now available from Winkworth estate agents or online at www.devizes-eisteddfod.org.uk.

The Eisteddfod now extends over five days beginning with two days of dance competition at Lavington School on November. 16 and 17.

Music, speech and drama classes take place November 21 to 23 at venues in Devizes.

There are more classes for adults and Wiltshire Choir of the Year and Wiltshire Young Musician will again feature.

Mr Johnson said: "Already there is much interest in this year’s event with uptake for dance places well under way even before this week’s announcement.

"The Eisteddfod is increasing its prize fund again this year offering sizeable awards to choirs as well as individuals to be spent on arts activities.

"The climax of the Eisteddfod will again be the Festival Concert, this year taking place in the Town Hall Assembly Room on Saturday, 30 November at 7pm when outstanding performances in the festival will be heard again. Senior prizes will be awarded at this event also along with the staging of the 4th Young Musician of Wiltshire."

Admission to all Town Hall events is free with a collection at the end to assist with presentation costs. Admission to the Dance Festival at Lavington School is £5(adults) £2(students) Performers, from this year, can now enter the Eisteddfod on-line.

The Devizes Eisteddfod is a charity entirely run by volunteers. It is able to continue developing its programme thanks to the support from Devizes Town Council, St. John’s Church, it’s sponsor Winkworth Estate Agents, corporate members and advertisers.