Many of the main players in the Pembrokeshire tourist industry met to discuss the future of the sector together with representatives from the Welsh Conservatives, the official Opposition in the National Assembly.

The event, held in Haverfordwest Leisure Centre, was hosted by Leader of the Opposition, Andrew RT Davies and brought together delegates from Pembroke Castle, the Wales Association of Self-Catering Organisations, the Institute of Hospitality, Pembrokeshire Tourism, the National Farmers' Union and the Federation of Small Businesses.

The event was also attended by Paul Davies, AM for Preseli Pembrokeshire, Simon Hart, MP for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire and Suzy Davies AM, Policy Director for the Welsh Conservatives.

The forum discussed the key barriers to tourism growth in West Wales, how support in marketing and web presence could be improved by the Welsh Government and what steps could be taken to help small business growth.

In Pembrokeshire, the tourist industry accounts for nearly one in five jobs, while tourism more widely contributes £6.2billion to the Welsh economy.

Similar, successful events – covering topics such as the economy, education and energy – have previously taken place in Deeside, Llandrindod Wells, Welshpool and Ynys Mon.

Andrew RT Davies AM, Leader of the Opposition, said, "This latest community engagement forum furthers my commitment to take politics out of the Cardiff Bay bubble and meet real people who understand what's happening in their local area.

"This forum was an important opportunity to bring together the key players in Pembrokeshire's tourism economy and discuss the steps government can take to improve their prospects.

"Tourism is a major employer in this part of the world, but too often its contribution to the wider Welsh economy is overlooked.

"We heard directly from those working on the frontline, the measures that the Welsh Government could take to support small businesses, improve marketing to sell Wales to travellers and help grow our economy.

"We concluded that Carwyn Jones' government needs to invest far more in marketing and promoting Wales by tapping into lucrative tourist markets. The Welsh Government also needs to focus on getting the brand of Wales right and allow industry to take a lea because individuals know their trade better than Labour Ministers."