Mid Wales is set to celebrate its thriving tourism industry as entries open for the Mid Wales Tourism Awards 2024-25, the first since the Covid pandemic. The awards aim to recognise and showcase the region’s exceptional tourism businesses, organisations, and individuals who drive the sector forward.
With 15 categories available for entry, businesses and individuals have until midnight on August 18 2024 to submit their applications through the awards website, www.midwalestourismawards.co.uk The categories include:
Winners and finalists will have the opportunity to represent Mid Wales at the Wales National Tourism Awards in Spring 2025. The announcement of category finalists will take place in November with winners revealed at a black-tie awards ceremony. Exclusive headline and category sponsorship opportunities are available, offering businesses a chance to elevate their profile and demonstrate their support for the tourism sector in Mid Wales. The awards are organised by Mid Wales Tourism, known as MWT Cymru, with backing from the Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum and Visit Wales, the Welsh Government’s tourism team. MWT Cymru, a not-for-profit social enterprise, represents and supports over 550 tourism businesses and organisations across Powys, Ceredigion, and Southern Snowdonia. Steve Hughson, Chair of the Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum, highlighted the importance of the awards: “These awards present an exciting opportunity to showcase the very best of what Mid Wales has to offer to a wider audience and a chance to celebrate excellence and innovation within the tourism, leisure and hospitality sector – the second largest employer in Mid Wales.” MWT Cymru’s Chairman, Rowland Rees-Evans, emphasised the significance of the awards: “The Mid Wales Tourism Awards honour businesses, organisations, and individuals who have shown exceptional achievement and dedication to the tourism industry. This is our chance to promote the unique attractions and businesses that make Mid Wales a remarkable destination. I encourage everyone in the sector to participate, promote, or sponsor.” Zoe Hawkins, MWT Cymru’s Chief Executive, added: “The Mid Wales Tourism Awards 2024-25 mark the first post-Covid awards, fittingly launched last week to coincided with Wales Tourism Week (July 15 - 21), an industry led opportunity to showcase the quality of Welsh tourism. The awards are a vital opportunity to champion the resilience and strength of our sector and those delivering outstanding customer service. We look forward to receiving applications.” For more details and to enter, visit www.midwalestourismawards.co.uk
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The much-anticipated National Tourism Awards for Wales will return in Spring 2025. Hosted by Visit Wales they celebrate the best of the tourism industry throughout the country.
How to enter: winners of the Regional Awards in 2024 will go through to the National (Wales) Awards in March 2025 - so you will need to apply through your county/regional tourism awards to be considered. The categories for the National Tourism Awards 2025 are:
South West Wales:
Go North Wales Awards – The Go North Wales Awards will go live on the 1 August and the closing date for entries will be 7 October 2024.
The Minister heard about the work being undertaken in Mid Wales that is supported through UK Government funding, in particular:
Mid Wales Growth Deal: a long-term investment of £110m from UK and Welsh Governments that leverages significant additional investment. The Minister received updates on both the Sites & Premises and Digital Programmes as well as the nine projects that are currently progressing for funding. UK Shared Prosperity Fund: a £42.4m investment in Mid Wales supporting communities and businesses to prosper and grow. The Minister received updates on current progress and timescales. There was also an opportunity to discuss the work ongoing in Mid Wales around Energy, Transport and Skills – and the importance of joint partnership working across Government and economic sectors in a rural economy such as that of Mid Wales, where collaboration is essential to address the unique challenges and leverage the region's strengths for sustainable development and growth. In a joint statement, Councillor James Gibson-Watt and Councillor Bryan Davies said, “We were pleased to meet the new Minister today and talk about how we unlock the economic potential of Mid Wales. We have a strategy and vision for achieving growth with our key partners. It is vitally important that we continue to work hand in glove with both the UK and Welsh Government to foster collaboration between public and private sectors, working as one team – to boost productivity and drive long-term and sustainable economic growth.” Dame Nia Griffith DBE MP also highlighted the importance of partnership working and the work ongoing in the region. She said: “I was delighted to meet key individuals involved with the Mid Wales Growth Deal. The UK Government is committed to economic growth and we can only do this by working in partnerships, exemplified by the work being undertaken here. By investing in key infrastructure and fostering these partnerships between government and the private sector, we are laying the foundation for a prosperous future for Mid Wales.” The Royal Welsh Show provided a fitting backdrop for this important discussion, underscoring the vital connection between developments in several economic sectors within a rural economy. From land and agriculture, agri-tech, energy, food & tourism – there remains a strong need for sustained investment in underpinning infrastructure and skills to support the vision for Growing Mid Wales. For those interested in staying updated on the latest developments with the work of Growing Mid Wales, sign up for our monthly newsletter by emailing [email protected] Three members of the IMI Wales team (from left) Guy Edwards, project manager, Zoe Hawkins, MWT Cymru chief executive and Jo Lewis business engagement officer for North Powys. MWT Cymru, the largest membership organisation for tourism businesses in Mid Wales, has launched IMI Wales, an exciting initiative to revitalise town centre shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs across Powys. The IMI Wales project utilises new Web3 technology to create a platform which gives micro businesses across Powys access to features previously attainable only by large corporations. The project brings together businesses seeking to upskill, access exclusive marketing opportunities and find new and innovative ways to thank loyal customers whilst also attracting new ones. There are two dedicated business engagement officers in both North and South Powys to work with each business, ensuring they can maximise this opportunity. Jo Lewis [email protected] covers North Powys and Helen Howarth [email protected] covers South Powys. Corporations use reward-based schemes because they know they work. IMI Wales now offers these same powerful tools to small businesses, including customer rewards systems and significant marketing support. Participating businesses receive free professional photographs for their marketing needs, dedicated support from experienced business engagement officers and the opportunity to take part in exclusive marketing campaigns. MWT Cymru leverages VisitMidWales.co.uk, which attracts more than one million unique visits each year, giving businesses significant visibility. "This initiative isn't just about discounts," explained Zoe Hawkins, MWT Cymru chief executive. "It's about collaboration, added value and trying something new. Our team works closely with businesses to help them determine what will work best for them, their business and their customers." IMI Wales is part of the Revitalising Mid Wales Project which has received £340,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, supported by Powys County Council. The initiative will be rolled out to a minimum of six towns throughout Powys, with 12 towns already showing interest. "We understand that local reward schemes have been attempted before, often without the backing of a large-scale marketing campaign," added Zoe. "IMI Wales is different because it links towns and businesses, attracting additional customers through our extensive tourism network. We will work with any active community to ensure the success of this programme. "We urge businesses to consider the bigger picture – what’s good for your business is good for the town and the community.”. A not-for-profit tourism organisation, MWT Cymru’s activities are supported by 600 collaborating, member tourism businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Snowdonia. "We want to use our skills and successful strategies from the tourism sector to support small businesses that may need that extra help," stressed Zoe. For more information about IMI Wales and how to get involved, please contact: www.imi.wales or [email protected] . EAG chair Steve Lesbirel (centre) with Councillor Bryan Davies (left), Ceredigion County Council leader and Councillor James Gibson-Watt, Powys County Council leader, during their visit to Elan Valley Visit with Caban Coch dam in the background. Elan Valley Visitor Centre near Rhayader hosted the first meeting between the Growing Mid Wales Economic Advisory Group (EAG) and leaders of Ceredigion and Powys County Councils The meeting was held to discuss the Mid Wales Growth Deal’s strategic initiatives and collaboration on advancing regional economic growth. Elan Valley Lakes Project is the first Mid Wales project advancing to the final stage of business case development to unlock growth deal funding. Representatives of Welsh Water/ Dŵr Cymru, project developers, outlined the proposals before leading a tour around the site. The £21.7 million project includes plans to redevelop and expand Elan Valley Visitor Centre overlooking Caban Coch Dam, a hub for water sports and events, new tourism accommodation, including glamping pods, upgrading footpaths and bike trails, woodland conservation management and green energy supply links from a hydro mains ring. The EAG, an independent body for Growing Mid Wales Board, comprises business leaders with expertise relevant to the region. The growth deal is a capital funding programme investing in large-scale infrastructure projects to support regional economic growth. Steve Lesbirel, EAG chair, said: “We now have a full group consisting of entrepreneurial industry leaders and we look forward together with a passion to help drive the Mid Wales economy forward. “Our group plays a key role in providing a strategic and constructive challenge to strengthen proposals and advise on new opportunities for the Growing Mid Wales Board to consider.” Councillor James Gibson-Watt, Powys County Council leader and Councillor Bryan Davies, Ceredigion County Council leader, are co-chairs of Growing Mid Wales Board. “We are delighted to work closely with regional business leaders to provide a voice for their sector and share strategic and constructive responses for the Mid Wales Growth Deal,” they said. "The growth deal is entering an exciting stage of development which sees programmes and projects moving into the delivery phase. We therefore need to ensure business representatives help us to strengthen and challenge the portfolio to have maximum impact on the Mid Wales economy." For more information about EAG members visit: www.growingmid.wales/EAG .
Managing a workforce of 45, Calum has vacancies for a full-time events manager and six housekeeping and restaurant staff. He is willing to offer flexible hours for working mothers and keen to promote apprenticeship opportunities at the hotel to develop and enhance hospitality skills. Stressing that the Palé Estate is committed to playing an active and supportive role in the local community, Calum revealed that the owners have a number of exciting investment plans in the pipeline. Projects include developing a sculpture trail in the impressive gardens, which are being redesigned by noted New Zealand-born landscape designer Anthony Paul. Exclusive chauffeur driven Rolls Royce guided tour packages will also be provided, reflecting the hotel owners’ passion for luxury cars. Palé Hall is a member of Relais & Chateaux, Pride of Britain Hotels and Celebrated Experiences. When he walked into the hotel last week, it was a déjà vu moment for Calum, as he had visited a couple of times 12 years ago to consider when he passed up the chance to buy the property for a previous employer. He is delighted that Mr and Mrs Cooper-Barney have given him a chance to return to the grand property to become director, having been impressed by their enthusiasm for the new project. It’s his first major hospitality post since becoming deaf, following illness, five years ago. With the dedicated help of his parents back in Scotland, Calum has learned to lipread and a telephone app instantly converts verbal conversation into text. He feels that his return to Wales and Palé Estate were preordained. Wealthy Scottish railway engineer and entrepreneur Henry Robertson bought the estate in 1868 and took three years to build Palé Hall. “There are so many coincidences about me being here that it was obviously meant to be,” said Calum. “Palé Hall was built by a Scotsman in the style of a Scottish baronial castle, and now another Scotsman is back running it. “Palé Hall and the surrounding area are stunningly beautiful and the new owners share my passion and enthusiasm for the hospitality industry. “I have been fortunate to live in Wales for 15 years and I know how special the country is in terms of the fantastic scenery and places to visit. “Here at Palé Hall, we are just 90 minutes from Manchester Airport which makes it a very attractive destination for visitors from American and other countries. I plan to tour of the United States with Celebrated Experiences and will be working closely with Visit Wales to promote the hotel and this part of Wales. “I shall also be entering the hotel for awards to showcase our green credentials. We already produce 65% of our own energy through hydro power and are introducing new measure to save water. “The owners have some very exciting plans in the pipeline to support the local community and attract more visitors to Bala, so watch this space. We are determined to be good neighbours and to support the community in any way possible.” School holidays threat to Royal Welsh Show lifted. The Welsh Government’s decision to shelve any move to shorten the school summer holidays to five weeks instead of six at least until the next Senedd term has been welcomed by the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS). It’s not yet clear if the Welsh Government will re-consult on the structure of the school year or implement changes during the next Senedd term. The RWAS objected to any proposal to shorten the school summer holiday that would prevent children and families from attending the Royal Welsh Show in July. There was a fear that the show’s future could be jeopardised if it was held whilst schools were still open. Welcoming the Welsh Government’s decision, RWAS chief executive Aled Rhys Jones said: "If our show had been forced to happen whilst Welsh children were still at school, its future viability would be in question. It’s the biggest event of its kind in Europe and contributes massively to Welsh culture and the economy. “With pupils now free to attend the show, we can continue to provide them with the same valuable extra-curricular experiences and opportunities which we have always done. We can continue to be partners in educating our young people." RWAS Council chair Nicola Davies added: "We are extremely grateful to all our members for voicing their objection to the Government's consultation. “Their response proved that our festival is one that is appreciated by town and country residents alike. No-one will now be deprived the opportunity to attend the show, and the show will not be deprived its part in developing a prosperous Wales. “But should the show’s existence be questioned again in the future, we’re confident that our loyal members would mount a further protection campaign." The Royal Welsh Show will be held from July 22-25 at the showground in Llanelwedd. The Cabinet Secretary for Education has today [Tuesday 4th June 2024] confirmed that plans to change the school holidays will not happen this Senedd term to give teachers and staff space and time to deliver other reforms.
Proposals suggested moving a week from the start of the summer break into the autumn break creating a two-week half term to improve the education experiences of young people especially the most disadvantaged and align more effectively with how families live and work. While a narrow majority of responses were in favour of changing school holidays, the findings from the consultation were equivocal and contradictory which highlights more discussion and exploration is needed to ensure any future amendments benefit everyone. The pause will also allow other reforms such as the New Curriculum for Wales and reforms of Additional Learning Needs to be fully implemented and rolled out before other changes are introduced. The decision on the timing of implementation of the plans will also be deferred to the next Senedd term. Term dates for 2025 to 2026 will be published by local authorities shortly. Read the announcement in full on Mixed response to school year consultation | GOV.WALES. The chairman of regional tourism organisation MWT Cymru is delighted that 13 beaches along the Ceredigion coast have been recognised in this year’s Wales Coast Awards for water quality, public facilities, safety provision and management. The popular beaches at Borth, Aberystwyth South, Llangrannog and Tresaith will be flying Blue Flags, while Clarach, Aberystwyth North, New Quay Harbour, New Quay Dolau/North and Aberporth have achieved the Seaside Award. Llanrhystud, Cilborth-Llangrannog, Penbryn and Mwnt have received the Green Coast Award. Beaches achieving Blue Flag and Green Coast award status must meet the highest “excellent” water quality standard and are judged for the provision of facilities for beach users and for demonstrating good management and safety provision. The Seaside Award recognises beaches that have an overall “good” standard of water quality, public facilities, safety provision and management. All designated bathing waters in Wales are monitored by Natural Resources Wales from May to September, annually. The Wales Coastal Award schemes are co-ordinated and run by Keep Wales Tidy who conducted a survey last year which found that more than 75% of businesses located near Blue Flue beaches believe the award attracts visitors to the area Rowland Rees-Evans, MWT Cymru’s chairman from Penrhos Park, Llanrhystud, said: “These awards are fantastic news for the communities along the Ceredigion coastline as well as for tourism businesses and visitors. “It’s very reassuring that Ceredigion has clean and safe beaches which local people and visitors alike can use with confidence. We look forward to welcoming them this summer. Keep Wales Tidy whose chief executive Owen Derbyshire said: “We're delighted to see another successful year of Coast Awards here in Wales, with 49 stunning locations recognised among the world's best. “Achieving these prestigious awards means meeting rigorous standards put in place to ensure the safe enjoyment of visitors now and in years to come. This success is testament to the hard work of all involved in maintaining and enhancing the natural beauty of our Welsh coastline.” Councillor Clive Davies, Ceredigion County Council’s cabinet member for the economy and regeneration, thanked individuals, voluntary groups, organisations and businesses along the county’s coastline for their regular beach, promenade and foreshore cleans, environmental conservation, wildlife education and water safety activities. “Without this support, we would simply not be able to put forward so many of our beaches and successfully obtain these prestigious awards,” he said. “These awards place Ceredigion beaches amongst the very best coastal destinations in Wales and the UK, forming an integral part of the local tourism economy.” The council is advising bathers to always swim at a lifeguarded beach between the red and yellow flags, denoting the designated swimming areas patrolled in Ceredigion by RNLI Lifeguards. Beaches with lifeguards are Borth, Clarach, Aberystwyth North and South, New Quay Harbour, Cilborth-Llangrannog, Tresaith and Aberporth. The Vale of Rheidol Railway recently celebrated the official opening of its new museum and events space in Aberystwyth, marking the completion of the ‘Wales to the World’ project. The repurposed building offers 5,000 square feet of display space for some of the railway’s priceless collection, alongside exhibits from around the world. It tells the story of how Wales led the way in narrow gauge railways, helping to export the idea all over the world. The building project has been completed on budget by the railway, despite having to navigate COVID restrictions and increasing costs through the last phase of construction. The museum is part of the £3.3m Wales to the World project which is transforming the site into a station suitable for modern tourists. It’s estimated that The Vale of Rheidol Railway generates around £2 million annually for the local economy. “Delivering the project has been challenging at times,” said Llŷr ap Iolo, managing director of the Vale of Rheidol Railway. “However, we now finally have the facilities to welcome visitors to the railway and offer a fantastic experience and day out. “This makes the business more sustainable, both as an all year round attraction and as a large local employer.” The museum is located in the old Aberystwyth engine shed building, which was built in 1938 by the Great Western Railway. The space has been transformed into a multi-purpose display and events venue for community events. The official opening ceremony was performed by Steffan Roberts, the Welsh Government’s deputy director of tourism, development and sport. Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, said: “It’s very exciting news that the new museum and community events space is now open to the public. The modern exhibition will raise awareness of the pivotal role that Wales played in the history of narrow gauge railways and is a great addition to an already highly popular Welsh attraction.” As well as £1.6m of funding from the European Regional Development Fund and £256,000 from the Welsh Government, the project received £300,000 from the Coastal Communities Fund, administered on behalf of the Welsh Government by the National Lottery Community Fund. The project also received £100,000 from the Railway Heritage Trust towards the atrium and reconstruction of the portico entrance. Invited guests enjoyed a private look inside the museum, whilst being entertained by Aberystwyth-based professional string quartet Da’l Ati. Guests then boarded the train for a ride to Devil’s Bridge for a sumptuous buffet lunch, provided by the Two Hoots Tea Room. “It was fantastic to invite our funders, contractors and friends to the opening day to thank them and showcase the finished building,” added Llŷr, reflecting on the opening day. Visitors will now be able to enjoy the museum for themselves, as the venue will be open daily until the start of November. Entry is £5 for adults, £3 for children or free for those travelling on the train. The museum is also being used as a hub for community events throughout the year, including live music and lunchtime concerts. The space is also available for private functions and events, with further details are available from the railway. |
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