EU recognises Welsh tongue

THE Welsh language, which dates back to the 6th century, got a huge boost when the European Union formally recognised it as a minority tongue.

The move by the 27-nation bloc enabled Welsh heritage minister Alun Ffred Jones, representing Britain, to address colleagues at an EU culture ministers meeting in his native language.

Welsh, a Celtic language, is related to Breton, Cornish, Irish, Manx and Scottish Gaelic.