WITH the weather slowly warming and the general election fast approaching, it’s not just going to be politicians and activists you’ll be seeing more of in the coming weeks, but tourists with a bit of luck.

We have some wonderful attractions on our doorsteps here in Penarth, from the recently refurbished Pier, to the beautiful local beaches, and of course a thriving town centre. Indeed, whilst many high streets across Wales have struggled during a difficult period for the economy, Penarth has shown a resilience and an ability to adapt and evolve.

From its pubs and restaurants, including the Railway and Bar 44, to its independent boutique style shops there is always plenty to attract the day tripper.

Penarth has a wonderful almost ‘Victorian’ feel, with its tranquil gardens, beautiful coastal views and open green spaces. It is these attractions that last week helped Penarth to secure a prestigious award in the Times newspaper, after being declared one of the UK’s 30 top places to live!

As a Vale resident myself, I was extremely proud to see both Penarth and indeed my own village of St Hilary featuring prominently in the list. We are extremely fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of Wales, offering stunning coastal views, beautiful countryside and some of the best pubs and restaurants in the region.

The Vale is fortunate enough to benefit from both local and regional tourism and if you or anyone you know runs a local business I’d love to hear from you in a survey we are undertaking – you could even win £50 in John Lewis vouchers just by taking part! The survey can be taken in English or in Welsh:

http://yourvoiceintheassembly.co.uk/welshtourismsurvey/

Also on our doorsteps here in Penarth is the wonderful Marie Curie hospice, Holme Towers. Whilst you’d like to think that most people in Penarth already know all about the excellent work they do providing palliative care, I cannot sing the praises of the nursing staff enough.

Organisations and charities like Marie Curie do invaluable work, helping families to make the most of the precious time they have left together after a terminal diagnosis.

Last month I joined Marie Curie nurses here in the Senedd for the launch of the 2015 Great Daffodil Appeal. The appeal has been raising money and awareness since it was first established in 1986 and every March millions of people show their support for Marie Curie by making a donation and wearing a daffodil pin.

I would also like to give a special mention to the National Assembly Rugby team, who have once again been doing some excellent fundraising for Bowel Cancer UK. Our most recent fixture against Cardiff Quins ended in an impressive victory, 31-19. Our first win against a non-veterans side and excellent preparation for the Parliamentary World Cup in September.

The WRU were kind enough to donate a signed Wales shirt for our raffle and I’m delighted to say that we raised well over £700 for Bowel Cancer UK. If you want to find out more about the team, or to come along and support us in future matches, we are on Twitter @AssemblyRugby.