Local voices of Eisteddfod y Garreg Las: Meet Sophie Tuckwood

Sophie Tuckwood moved from Nottingham to Pembrokeshire and began learning Welsh after having children. She has lived in Pembrokeshire for 16 years and now works as a Learn Welsh tutor.

With this year’s Eisteddfod on her doorstep, we asked her about the festival and the local area...

What’s the best thing about learning Welsh?

Learning Welsh has given me so many exciting opportunities, but I think the best thing about learning Welsh is the people. I have made wonderful friends throughout my time learning Welsh and now as a tutor. The language has also started many conversations with new people, often in completely unexpected places. For example, I was telling my children to behave in the lift on the way up the Eiffel Tower when I heard, "Do you speak Welsh?" Small world! The language creates a very special connection between people.

Where’s your favourite place in Pembrokeshire?

One special place to visit during Eisteddfod week is Rosebush, a small village near an old slate quarry. It sits at the foot of the Preseli hills and has beautiful views.

My husband goes to Rosebush almost every weekend to go mountain biking.

Why not relax at the pub, Tafarn Sinc? It’s a traditional, community pub. You can practise your Welsh there too!

What advice would you give to learners visiting the Eisteddfod?

It may sound obvious but practise your Welsh! Everyone will be supportive and give you a warm welcome. If you're feeling nervous, why not practise some useful phrases before you go? ‘Dw i’n hoffi’r band yma’ (I like this band), ‘Ble mae’r Babell Lên?’ (Where’s the Literature Tent?), ‘Ga i gwrw, os gwelwch yn dda?’ (Can I have a beer, please?) neu ‘Faint yw’r pris?’ (How much is it?). If you need a little help, or if you’d like to chat with other learners, come to Maes D!

What’s your favourite word from the local Welsh dialect?

I like 'tato newi' (new potatoes)! You'll be sure to see signs selling ‘tato newi’ on the way to the maes. There’s something endearing about the word that makes me think of a close-knit agricultural community. And of course, listen out for the 'wês, wês!' (yes, yes!).