SECOND time around and the Swansea Bay Tourism Awards are cranking up interest in the industry.

They are helping to make an impact in an area that has seen growth over the past couple of decades.

The first awards, two years ago, set the scene and the follow-up event at the city's Brangwyn Hall has raised the profile of the people who provide leisure facilities.

More than 370 people gathered in the Brangwyn to celebrate successes in 14 categories.

"Earlier in the year, tourism, leisure and hospitality business were encouraged to enter the awards," said Tourism Swansea Bay business development manager Cathy Lewis.

"We received 150 entries, making a clear statement that the industry is striving to be the best.

"The awards rewarded excellence, encouraged professionalism, and promoted the quality and diverse range of products that we have to offer guests to the Swansea Bay region. There is something to suit all tastes here. We have a lot to be proud of.

"As an important event in the tourism calendar, the media attention it generated helped Tourism Swansea Bay and its sponsors to raise the profile of the tourism, leisure and hospitality industry in the Swansea Bay region."

A full list of winners is available from the awards website.

web link

www.swanseabaytourism awards.co.uk