A Carmarthenshire Council employee has scooped the Inspirational Use of the Welsh Language award at this year’s Professional Teaching Awards Cymru.

The ceremony honours the achievements of teachers up and down the country who are championing success in education, and demonstrating the utmost dedication and commitment in the process.

Iona Llŷr works for the council’s education and children’s services department as a team leader for the Athrawon Datblygu'r Gymraeg.

She co-ordinates and inspires over 100 schools in the county to use and enjoy the Welsh language, not only in the classroom, but also socially.

Iona has worked for the council for almost 35 years and has made a huge difference across the county, inspiring confidence in all levels of Welsh learners and teachers.

Her ability to lead and innovate enables her team to successfully implement school language policies and Carmarthenshire's Welsh in Education Strategic Plan.

Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services Cllr Glynog Davies said: “A huge congratulations to Iona for this award which recognises her dedication and passion for the Welsh language.

“Iona has inspired hundreds of learners over the years, and has been instrumental in supporting our schools to develop their Welsh language provision.

“She leads by example and thinks outside the box, using cutting edge strategies to draw parents and pupils alike to the benefits of bilingual education.”