WITH the weather slowly warming and the general election fast approaching, it’s not just going to be politicians and activists you’ll be seeing more of in the coming weeks, but tourists with a bit of luck.

We have some wonderful attractions on our doorsteps here in Barry, from the soon to be re-opened pleasure park, to the beautiful local beaches, and of course a thriving high street. Indeed, whilst many high streets across Wales have struggled during a difficult period for the economy, Barry High Street has shown a resilience and an ability to adapt and evolve.

From its sandy beaches, coastal walks and family entertainment, Barry Island remains one of the Vale’s tourist hotspots and there is always plenty to attract the day tripper.

The campaign to bring a new fairground to Barry Island is progressing well and everyone involved deserves credit for their tireless efforts. I know that local MP, Alun Cairns, has championed the project and it is clear that a new funfair will make a huge difference to the island’s image, as well as boosting the local economy and creating much-needed jobs.

As a Vale resident myself, it was also fantastic to see both Penarth and my own village of St Hilary recognised in the Times’ top 30 places to live in the UK. We are extremely fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of Wales, offering stunning coastal views, beautiful countryside and some of the best pubs and restaurants in the region.

The Vale is fortunate enough to benefit from both local and regional tourism and if you or anyone you know runs a local business I’d love to hear from you in a survey we are undertaking – you could even win £50 in John Lewis vouchers just by taking part. The survey can be taken in English or in Welsh:

http://yourvoiceintheassembly.co.uk/welshtourismsurvey/

Also on our doorsteps here in Barry is the wonderful Ty Hafan hospice in Sully. Whilst you’d like to think that most people in the area already know all about the excellent work they do providing palliative care to young people, I cannot sing the praises of the staff enough.

Organisations and charities like Ty Hafan do invaluable work, helping families to make the most of the precious time they have left together after a terminal diagnosis.

Since they opened the first hospice in 1999, nearly 600 Welsh children and their families have benefited from the care and support they provide both in the hospice and in their homes.

I would also like to give a special mention to the National Assembly Rugby team, who have once again been doing some excellent fundraising for Bowel Cancer UK. Our most recent fixture against Cardiff Quins ended in an impressive victory, 31-19. Our first win against a non-veterans side and excellent preparation for the Parliamentary World Cup in September.

The WRU were kind enough to donate a signed Wales shirt for our raffle and I’m delighted to say that we raised well over £700 for Bowel Cancer UK. If you want to find out more about the team, or to come along and support us in future matches, we are on Twitter @AssemblyRugby.