WOTGA – Wales Official Tourist Guides Association – has welcomed seven new members as accredited Green Badge Tourist Guides for the south east region of Wales which includes the cities of Cardiff and Newport, mid Wales, the Wye Valley and Brecon Beacons. There are also six new guides for south west Wales and ten for north Wales.

Following a rigorous training programme, the new tourist guides are qualified to Federation of European Guides standards. It forms part of Visit Wales’ wider strategy to create more professional development and training opportunities across the tourism and hospitality sector in Wales, including tourist guiding services. As members of WOTGA, their qualification is a fully recognised accreditation across the UK and Europe.

Course tutor Steve Griffin says: “The past year was clearly a challenging time to embark on such a training programme. I have been greatly heartened by these guides’ passion and commitment; their knowledge and expertise, their communication and story-telling skills are truly impressive. It was a joy and a privilege working with them. They bring a huge amount of energy and enthusiasm to the profession in the south east Wales region.”

The newly-qualified tourist guides come from a variety of interesting and relevant backgrounds, bringing a wealth of experience and their own individual, entertaining styles. The specially-created training course ensures they are trained to the same professional standards. The individuals involved in the programme, detailed are also well placed to contribute fresh new ideas – working with agents, tour operators, coach operators and groups to bring these to the market in a cost-effective way.

Welcoming the new graduates, Fiona Peel, chair of WOTGA, says: “With the market gradually opening up following a period of great uncertainty, it is an exciting time for tourism in Wales. Our new colleagues undoubtedly have a significant contribution to make. We wish them well, and urge those visiting Wales and those working within the industry to reach out and benefit from their expertise and in depth knowledge of the area. It will strengthen business opportunities and greatly enhance any visit to Wales, ensuring a trip to this unique and beautiful country is enjoyable, memorable and interesting.”

Find a guide to suit your tour at www.walesbestguides.com