Visit Wales, The Welsh Assembly Government’s tourism agency, and VisitBritain have announced the extension of a scheme which accredits establishments as offering a warm welcome to both walkers and cyclists.

Incorporating the whole of the UK, the Walkers and Cyclists Welcome scheme was previously only available to serviced and self-catering accommodation but will now be extended to include the holiday parks sector.

Benefits of the scheme to operators include certificates and logos alongside promotion in VisitBritain and Visit Wales guides, campaigns and websites.

Jeremy Brinkworth, VisitBritain’s general manager for Quality, said: “I look forward to seeing the benefits this initiative will bring for walkers and cyclists in England and Wales. Visitors will be able to book knowing that their expectations will be met, meaning they will return time and time again.

“Outdoor activities form a huge part of the domestic holiday industry and it is vital that we cater for visitors from this sector and enable them to choose suitable accommodation.”

Welsh Assembly government minister for enterprise, innovation and networks, Andrew Davies, added: “Visitors who come to Wales to walk or cycle contribute more than £81m to the economy each year.

“It is crucial that people feel their needs will be catered for and this scheme will leave no doubt in a visitor’s mind about the facilities on offer.”

Recent figures have shown that British visitors annually take more than 102 million trips involving cycling and walking in England alone. Details: www.wales.gov.uk