Warm Welcome for Visitors to Bridgend County Borough This Summer

Welcome stewards will be greeting visitors in Porthcawl and town centres across Bridgend county borough this summer.

The visitor welcome stewards who started this week in time for the first weekend of the school summer holidays, will be providing a friendly welcome to visitors, offering advice and information on nearby places to visit and enjoy, as well as answering any questions people may have on public transport, car parking, beach safety, public toilets and more.

Jacqui Rava who is one of the new stewards knows the county borough well having moved to Porthcawl when she was just 11. Now semi-retired, she also ran a restaurant in the town for many years.

She said: “I’m really looking forward to meeting people from all different backgrounds and helping them to get the most out of the visit to the county borough, giving them a positive experience. There’s so much to see and do here.”

Martin Curry, another steward, moved to Wales from Billericay in Essex after marrying the girl of his dreams from Barry – just like Gavin and Stacey in the hit series.

Martin, who now lives in Pencoed, said: “The main reason for wanting to become a visitor steward is because I just enjoy meeting people.

“I love the area, there’s really something for everyone here, and I’m looking forward to helping people make sure they get the best out of their day. There’s nothing more frustrating than wasting your day by trying to find out where everything is.”

Student, Eve Davies, is another member of the new team. From Maesteg, Eve is currently at Bath Spa University studying Fashion Design but has returned to Bridgend county borough this summer to help visitors.

She said: “The county borough is a great place to visit – my top tip for anyone coming here is just to have fun.

“I’m looking forward to meeting new people and helping get the most out of their time here.”

Cllr Stuart Baldwin, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “With the coronavirus restrictions easing and the tourist season upon us, we’re pleased to be able to welcome visitors again and we want to ensure that all those who visit our county borough have the best possible experience and make the most of their time here.

“The Visitor Welcome Stewards are part of our continued support for businesses as they reopen and we hope everyone who visits Porthcawl can get the help and advice they need from them.

“If you see any of our seven stewards out and about this summer, be sure to stop for a chat and get a few top tips on what to do.”