THE Thornbury Eisteddfod looks like it might have been saved thanks to willing volunteers stepping forward.

Last month the Gazette revealed how the annual singing event, which involves many local schools and choirs, had no one to organise it for next year.

Thornbury Arts Festival committee, which helps co-ordinate the Eisteddfod, said without anybody to take on a leadership role the competition might not happen.

The Eisteddfod is usually spilt into two parts, one focusing on speech and drama, which has a co-ordinator, and the musical element.

Phyllida Parsloe, chairman of the Thornbury Arts Festival, said: "We have had several phone calls from people interested in getting involved in the Eisteddfod so we are to have a meeting of all interested people to firm things up. It looks like the Eisteddfod might have been saved."

However, as well as the Eisteddfod, the arts festival itself was also facing an uncertain future last month after it was revealed the current artistic director Barbara Ray, would be stepping down next year.

The Thornbury Arts Festival, which has run for 43 years, attracts more than 2,500 visitors to the town over 10 days each year and has pulled in some big names including Kate Adie, Sir David Frost and Barry Cryer.

Ms Parsloe said: "We have also had some interest in the arts festival leadership which is great but even though we have had offers it would be great to have some more.

"We'd just like to say thanks to the Gazette for all its help in the festival's hour of need."

The Arts Festival, due to be held between April 17 to 26 next year, delivers an array of entertainment from guest speakers and book signings to dramas and musical performances.

Anyone interested in taking on the role of artistic director or co-ordinating the Eisteddfod should contact Phyllida Parsloeon 01454 419988 or email phyllida.parsloe@tiscali.co.uk