JOBS are set to be created when the first youth hostel in Neath Port Talbot opens its doors in the Afan Valley.

The former Pelenna mountain centre is being developed into Youth Hostel Association accommodation and will bring with it much needed employment opportunities in the area.

Located at Gyfylchi farm near Pontrhydyfen, Bryn Bettws lodge is intended to act as an base for mountain bikers, walkers, educational groups and corporate groups.

It is expected to open just after Easter and will have 40 bed spaces, with en-suite facilities, along with an on-site restaurant open to everyone.

Local businessman, Gerri Griffiths is behind the development.

Explaining his aspirations for the facility he said: "The centre hopes to attract educational and corporate visits and will offer activities such as adventures, problem solving and initiative tasks as well as leisure activities, map and orienteering tasks and environmental experiences."

He added: "We are very excited to be opening this development.

"It will be a great asset to the local area and not only this, we believe that the lodge can be an activity hub for Afan Forest Park."

It is expected the hostel will create around 10 jobs initially with this figure likely to increase as the facility takes off.

Cabinet Member for Economic Development, David Lewis said it was good news for Neath Port Talbot.

"The Council is delighted to see such a first class facility opening up in the Afan Valley," he said.

He added: "The Western Valley Strategy focuses on developing tourism in our valley communities as the key to regeneration and economic prosperity.

"This hostel is perfectly located for visitors to enjoy the best the Afan Valley has to offer."