WELSH traditional band Allan Yn Y Fan are opening their European tour with a concert at Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon on Friday, September 14.

It will be the band’s 22nd year on the road and will follow the release of their first single tomorrow (Friday, September 7).

The single, to be released on the Steam Pie label, consists of two tracks ‘Ym Mhontypridd’ and ‘Gorthrwm y Gweithiwr’. The latter, which the band believes to be the first ever recording of the song, refers to the struggles of the workers, versus their Beaufort, Ebbw Vale ironmasters in mid 19th century Wales.

Both tour print and CD single feature the band in front of William Edwards’ single-arch bridge crossing the River Taff in Pontypridd. Built in 1756, it was for 40 years Britain’s longest single span bridge.

The title of the tour is also inspired by the musical bridges the band have built with their supporters over the decades in copuntries such as Germany and Luxembourg.

On October 16 the band will be performing at The Welfare, Ystradgynlais. Visit www.ayyf.co.uk.