This is the fourth year that Swansea University have sponsored the GwyddonLe science pavilion.

Best known for his role as Max White in the Welsh-language soap opera, Pobol y Cwm, Rhys recently co-presented Gwylltio, a children’s wildlife series broadcast on S4C.

During the official opening of the GwyddonLe, Rhys, a Biochemistry graduate, talked about some of his experiences whilst filming the Gwylltio series, and spoke of his delight at seeing so many children partaking in such exciting science experiments in the GwyddonLe.

Following the official opening, Rhys took part in a number of science experiments, including: exploiting the weird properties of superconducting materials with the team from Materials Live!, using a 3D printer, and learning about different sea creatures with Gethin Thomas from Swansea University’s College of Science.

Following the official opening, Rhys said: “It was a privilege and an honour to open this year’s GwyddonLe, and it was great to see so many children and young people so keen to learn about science.

“The Gwyddonle offers great opportunities for children to learn about so many different things, and as someone who takes a great interest in science, I urge everyone to visit and to take advantage of what’s on offer here throughout the week”.

This year’s GwyddonLe is bigger than ever, with companies such as Techniquest, S4C, Big Learning Company, Magnox, Technocamps and many more showcasing their work within the pavilion all week, and offering a varied programme of events for visitors of all ages.

Visitors will have the opportunity to: dress up like a geographer and go on a GPS excursion around the Maes, film videos for YouTube, create apps, prove the body’s senses, as well as to watch tricks with liquid nitrogen and to see a 3D printer at work!

Professor Iwan Davies, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University said: “We’re very proud to be involved with the GwyddonLe again this year, and are grateful to Rhys Bidder for leading the official opening.

“It’s a very exciting time for Swansea University as the new Bay Campus continues to develop. The GwyddonLe is a great opportunity to inspire visitors to take an interest in the sciences and will encourage youngsters to continue their studies at the University one day.

"I would like to wish the Eisteddfod every success, and I hope that everyone will have an opportunity to visit the GwyddonLe to enjoy the feast of activities that are available throughout the week”.

Picture 1: Rhys Bidder during the official opening of the GwyddonLe

Picture 2: Rhys Bidder holding a crab from the aquatic pool at the GwyddonLe