More funding should be allocated to small to medium sized organised events across Wales says local Aberconwy MS Janet Finch-Saunders.

Following a debate in the Senedd she spoke passionately about the need to get visitors back into the area with a solid investment in projects that could do that successfully.

Addressing the debate, Mrs. Finch Saunders said: “Summer's here and so are some of the biggest outdoor events in Wales. From the Royal Welsh to the National Eisteddfod, Wales is a hot spot for summertime events and festivals which bring together friends and families.

“As the nation begins to move forward from the Pandemic, we need to focus on getting visitors back and giving them the confidence that Wales is open for business and that the Welsh Government is committed to supporting the needs of local communities during the peak visitor period.”

“On the 25th of June I attended the Llanrwst show. Established some 140 years ago, the rural agricultural show promotes locally produced food and crafts and marks an important date in the agricultural calendar.

“Attracting competitors and visitors from all over North Wales, its events such as this that inject a vibrant atmosphere into our towns and cities.

 “Unlike big events such as the Royal Welsh, funding options are far more limited to smaller rural organised events.

“This is why, in March last year, I called for the establishment of a Rural Shows Development Fund which would have grants made available to all shows to help with marketing, safety measures, and even greater diversification; Include a set of operational guidance for agricultural shows so that they can come back with confidence and see Visit Wales publish an ‘Agricultural Show Trail for Wales.

"This would encourage people to attend these events where so much can be learnt about farming, food, and crafts.”