A TOUR GUIDE is encouraging visitors to Ruthin to help the tourism industry recover from the 'devastating impact' it has endured due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Heather Williams of Heritage Tours North Wales, who mainly works with cruise ships that provide coach excursions throughout the area, is one of those working in the industry who are already feeling the effects.

Since the end of lockdown in Wales on July 6, people both in Wales and from the rest of the UK have been able to travel to enjoy the wonderful sights the country offers. And, with more accommodation options opening up each week, this enables visitors to stay again.

Heather now hopes this will encourage visitors back to Denbighshire. She said: "The lockdown has had a devastating impact on tourism businesses. It’s not only the accommodation and attractions that have been affected, but also self-employed tourist guides."

Heather hopes that couples and families will come on private tours - such as the ones she offers in Ruthin, where she has a special Royalty and Rogues tour.

Heather, a Blue Badge guide, says “Ruthin is one of the most charming towns in Wales. On this private tour you take a gentle stroll along the historic streets to discover fascinating stories of people with royal connections and others who found themselves in trouble with the law.

"There are some more well-known characters, such as Owain Glyndŵr who attacked the town, but there are others who were most unlikely rogues, such as the eminent politician Sir John Trevor and Sarah Harvey, who stood trial for murder in the ‘Mummy in a cupboard’ case.”

Heather has got the ‘We’re good to go’ UK-wide industry standard and consumer mark to reassure customers that her business adheres to Government and public health guidance. Tours can be given at a mutually agreed time.

For prices, contact 07979 677811 or visit Heritage Tours North Wales' website.