Celebrating 50 years of Mistar Urdd

We’ve launched an exciting year of celebrations as 2026 marks 50 years since the creation of Mistar Urdd – one of Wales’s most recognisable and beloved icons.

New recording of ‘Hei Mistar Urdd!’ in partnership with Sain Records

A new version of the iconic song has been released on Sain Records. The track, recreated for 2026, features singer-songwriter Aleighcia Scott, with artists Dom James and Lloyd adding contemporary rap elements, and Mared Williams contributing backing vocals. The new version was arranged by Morgan Elwy, breathing new life into an anthem known to thousands.

With the original version of ‘Hei Mistar Urdd!’ released on Sain Records, the Urdd is proud to release the new version of Geraint Davies’ catchy song on the same label almost 50 years later. The track was recorded at the legendary Sain studios in Llandwrog, where the original version was released in 1977.

LISTEN HERE

Pre-order the limited-edition vinyl

Get your hands on a limited-edition 7” vinyl, available from 26 May. The vinyl includes the new version on Side A and Geraint Davies’ original classic from 1977 on Side B. This special release features exclusive artwork by renowned Welsh artist Pete Fowler. The vinyl will also be available at this year’s Urdd Eisteddfod on Anglesey in May.

Pre-order here

History of the song

The iconic song was composed by Geraint Davies, a member of music groups Hergest and Mynediad am Ddim in 1977. He struck the right note by creating a catchy melody and memorable lyrics.

The song was recorded by the two teachers Gwyn Williams and Eirwyn Jôs, with Emyr Wyn on vocals. Gwyn and Eirwyn brought along a group of pupils from Ysgol Brynteg, Bridgend, and Ysgol Pontygwaith in the Rhondda to blast out the chorus on the track.

Mistar Urdd starred on several other records since then, but ‘Hei Mistar Urdd’ is the song that has bridged many decades, with new versions recorded over the years by the pop group CIC, the character Rapsgaliwn, and the musician Mei Gwynedd.

New mural in Aberystwyth in collaboration with Pete Fowler and UNIFY

A special mural has been painted in Aberystwyth, a town that holds a central place in the Urdd’s history and home to several of the organisation’s milestones over the decades, including the Urdd’s first headquarters. The artwork celebrates half a century of Mistar Urdd and reflect the national pride associated with its mascot.

The mural has been designed by renowned artist Pete Fowler, famous for his colourful and imaginative work for Super Furry Animals album artwork. Cardiff-based creative studio UNIFY will support the project, bringing their experience in public art and community representation.

This project was made possible thanks to the Welsh Government’s St David’s Day Fund.

HIGHLIGHT VIDEO AVAILABLE HERE

St David’s Day celebration event in Aberystwyth with support from the Welsh Government Fund

On Wednesday morning 25 February, Aleighcia Scott made a special visit to Plascrug Primary School and Aberystwyth Primary School, where she spoke with Year 5 pupils about the creative process behind the new version of the song. The celebrations moved to the site of the new mural, where Aleighcia performed the new version of ‘Hei Mistar Urdd!’ live – with Mistar Urdd himself making a special appearance to mark the occasion.

The event is possible thanks to the Welsh Government’s St David’s Day Fund, which supports projects that celebrate Welsh culture, strengthen community connections and inspire national pride through creativity and collaboration.