BARRY Island funfair operator Henry Danter briefed UK leaders on the tourism and leisure industry’s importance when he attended a Downing Street reception.

The 71-year-old showman, who owns Treasure Island and Symonds Yat leisure site attractions along with a number of hotel and retail and leisure-related outlets, told chancellor of the exchequer, George Osborne, first secretary of state and leader of the House of Commons, William Hague his plans for Barry Island and popped next door, to Number 10, and chatted to Prime Minister, David Cameron on the same theme.

Vale MP Alun Cairns arranged for Mr Danter to speak to the politicians to air his tourism views.

Henry said: “I talked to them about the tourist trade. When I was young in Wales it was all about coal mines, but now it’s something else.

“They were very interested. I said Barry Island was a big challenge for me, but the tourist trade was on the up now and we were becoming the main industry in the country. . It’s here to stay and with things indoors, it’s not just seasonal.

“I think Barry Island is going to be the best.”

He added: “I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a wonderful experience to be in Number 10 and 11. It was ‘wow’, the presentation and the way they conducted themselves was perfect.”

The chancellor, having listened to Mr Danter’s plans suggested a visit to Barry during the summer months could include a trip to the new funfair.

Vale MP Alun Cairns said: “I was delighted to have been able to arrange for Henry Danter to explain his plans for Barry to the prime minister and the chancellor of the exchequer.

“Barry needs to attract private investment onto the Island and Henry Danter has shown the enthusiasm to bring a top class fairground to the area.

Mr Cairns added: “The chancellor of the exchequer and the prime minister both listened carefully to the plans for Barry Island. We have one of the best coastal aspects anywhere in the country, and I want to see a thriving summer season in Barry that creates jobs and can attract further investment. I see the new fairground as just the start of a real renaissance in Barry – we just need to get moving.”