Lan y Môr in Saundersfoot got a Rising Star mention at a recent summit praising tourism and hospitality as the “lifeblood of the Welsh economy”, creating jobs and driving growth.

Attending the Welsh Government’s National Tourism Summit at Venue Cymru in Llandudno on Thursday (March 27), the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said she valued the sector’s insight and wanted to learn from the attendees’ years of experience on the front line.

The event, which welcomed guests from Wales, across the UK and Europe, offered the opportunity to explore opportunities for an industry that pumps £3.8bn into the Welsh economy each year.

Wales has a huge amount to offer to international visitors looking for a holiday, from historic and heritage towns to scenic coastlines and harbours. Speaking at the summit, Rebecca Evans said:

“In a world where travel connects us more than ever before, I don’t take for granted the incredibly important role tourism and hospitality businesses play. They are driving local economies and generating income for communities throughout Wales.”

Welsh Government support for the sector over the next financial year includes:

Later at the National Tourism Awards, the Cabinet Secretary led the celebration of those who have gone above and beyond in shaping Wales' tourism landscape.

Awards were presented to outstanding businesses and individuals, with winners stretching the length and breadth of the country.

They included Gwesty Plas Dinas in Caernarfon, which was named Best Hotel; Rock UK Summit Centre in Treharris, which picked up the prize for Best Activity, Experience or Tour – and Charly Dix from Lan y Môr in Saundersfoot who was celebrated as a Rising Star.