PENARTH'S Tourism and Visitor Association has elected a new chairman.

Former town and Vale councillor and cabinet member for leisure and tourism Anthony Ernest has succeeded Gary Soltys.

Jo Jones, who has worked in Welsh tourism and with the Welsh office in London, was elected the new vice chairman of the association.

The PTVA has also recently backed a UK Government consultation into a new deal for tourism.

It says the deal will ensure that all sectors of the industry involved will speak with one voice.

PTVS says it backs the idea of improving productivity, improving tourism infrastructure and connectivity, making tourism an industry of choice for young people and developing their skills, creating correct products for customers and compete globally in a digital world and developing regulation to ensure sustainability in growth markets

Mr Ernest said: "Here in Wales we have excellent tourism products appealing to a widely differing market, and we need to ensure that local tourism businesses are able to build on their own successes with the backing of national government and local authorities.

"There are terrific opportunities for young people seeking an interesting and satisfying career in this field, and many local businesses are looking for enthusiastic trainees who can offer commitment and potential management skills, which can be developed in a meaningful and practical way."

The Association's next ordinary meeting is to be held in October and all local businesses and organisations who value the visitor economy in Penarth will be welcome to attend.

To contact PTVA, email PTVA.Penarth@gmail.com.