New figures released by the Welsh Assembly Government have revealed that golf tourism in Wales has continued to increase in 2008 compared with the previous year, despite the economic downturn.

Last year, the total revenue of golf tourism in Wales was £29.4m, which is a 13 per cent increase on the figures for 2007, while visitor numbers to Welsh golf courses also experienced renewed growth, despite an overall 2 per cent decrease across the UK in the amount of rounds played. Alun Ffred Jones, Welsh heritage minister, said: "With the Ryder Cup just around the corner, these figures are excellent news for the golf tourism industry in Wales and shows that the Ryder Cup effect is taking hold throughout Wales and is proving to be a huge boost for tourism.

"The marketing work to raise Wales' profile as a visitor destination will continue over the next year to demonstrate the quality of the golfing experience in Wales. it is already evident that hosting the Ryder Cup is having an impact on golf tourism throughout Wales."