As Pembrokeshire's contribution to Wales Tourism Week, the Minister for Heritage, Alun Ffred Jones AM, opened a fully booked tourism trade event at Bluestone recently.

Over 120 trade members attended Promoting Pembrokeshire, from accommodation and activity providers to event organisers, pubs and restaurants and those businesses that supply into tourism operators.

Demand for places was unprecedented for the event, which was jointly promoted by Pembrokeshire County Council, Pembrokeshire Tourism, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority and Milford Haven Port Authority.

The partner organisations gave presentations highlighting their roles in promoting and representing the county, while Bluestone chief executive, William McNamara, also gave a talk about its conception, construction and progress since opening in July 2008.

The presentation was followed by a tour of the facilities at Bluestone, and the day finished with 'speed networking' which allowed businesses to introduce themselves to each other and gain more knowledge about their activities.

Pembrokeshire County Councillor Rob Lewis, cabinet member for cultural services, sports leisure and tourism, said: "Promoting Pembrokeshire was a joint effort which reflects the determination of everyone involved in tourism to work together and ensure that the county maintains and enhances its appeal as one of Wales' leading visitor destinations."

This theme was echoed by Nick Evans, chairman of Pembrokeshire Tourism, who commented: "The day we felt was a real success. There was certainly a real buzz around the room in the afternoon during the networking session.

"The trade certainly realises that it cannot operate in isolation, and needs, on behalf of the visitor, to do its groundwork in finding out what is available in Pembrokeshire both on the activities and eating-out experience."

Charles Mathieson, head of recreation and tourism at the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, said: "This event provided a really good opportunity to meet with businesses and partners and to hear of their concerns and plans.

"We are keen to make sure that the work of the authority in providing enjoyment opportunities and a fine environment, contributes to the development of a sustainable tourism experience for the county."

Sue Blanchard-Williams, cruise and events co-ordinator at Milford Haven Port Authority, commented: "The Port Authority is always actively promoting Pembrokeshire, not only as a cruise destination, but also as a tourist destination in order to help drive the local economy. We have strong working relationship with our tourism partners and support each other to promote the county."

Summing-up, Mr. McNamara revealed: "At Bluestone we always encourage our guests to go out into Pembrokeshire and experience the vast range of activities and attractions the county has to offer.

"We believe that if our guests do this, it will enhance their visit to Pembrokeshire, and the more they enjoy their visit, the more likely they are to return. Ultimately, that's to everyone's benefit."