About Mistar Urdd
History
From small drawing to national icon
Mistar Urdd was originally created in 1976 by Wynne Melville Jones (Wyn Mel), shortly after he began his role as the Urdd’s Publicity Officer. Seeking to bring the organisation closer to young people and refresh its image, Wyn added a face, arms and legs to the Urdd’s triangular logo, bringing to life a character who would become a symbol of Welsh youth pride.
Wyn Mel said: “I had the opportunity to develop new ideas for the Urdd to appeal to a new generation of youngsters, and 50 years later Mistar Urdd is still a firm favourite among the country’s children and young people. I can say hand on heart that all the hard work has paid off, and today the Urdd is recognised as one of the best youth organisations in the world.”
A shop was opened in Aberystwyth to sell Mistar Urdd merchandise. All kinds of goods were sold in the shop, including T‑shirts, mugs, purses, nightshirts and even Mistar Urdd underpants. One of the most popular items was the Mistar Urdd soft toy, and its popularity continues to this day.
By 1979 he had developed into a live mascot.
Achievements
Over the decades, Mistar Urdd has appeared on everything from socks, pyjamas and phone cases to television programmes, sporting events and Eisteddfodau. He has travelled to space, helped the Urdd break a Guinness World Record during the organisation’s centenary year, greeted presidents and prime ministers and now even lends his name to a brand-new train. He remains one of Wales’ most recognisable characters and a symbol of a warm welcome and inclusivity for Welsh speakers and learners alike.
Visit the BBC Bitesize website to see Mistar Urdd in space:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z2tyvwx
Impact – Urdd for All
From his early days as a sketch in 1976, the red, white and green mascot has grown to become an integral part of what the Urdd represents and has inspired generations of children and young people over the past 50 years.
The character has developed into a symbol of hope and represents the friendship, fun and pride that the Urdd, as Wales’s largest youth organisation, shares with children and young people across the country.
He also plays a key role in opening doors to the Welsh language and showing that the Urdd belongs to everyone – by extending a warm welcome to new audiences, new speakers, and families from all backgrounds.