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Blackwood couple chosen to help drive tourism in the Valleys

News | Richard Gurner | Published: 15:00, Monday August 8th, 2011.

Maria and Viv Watkins at Caerphilly's Big Cheese Festival
Maria and Viv Watkins at Caerphilly's Big Cheese Festival

A couple from Blackwood have been chosen to try out and experience a host of events and activities across the Valleys this summer.

Appointed as official Valleys Vacationers, Viv and Maria Watkins from Blackwood were chosen to review this summer’s top Valleys events and blog about their experiences on The Valleys’ website.

From partying to the sounds of The Blackout at Merthyr Rock and sampling the finest ciders at the International Cider Festival in Llancaiach Fawr near Nelson, to experiencing the area on foot at this year’s Wales Valleys Walking Festival, the Valleys Vacationers will review the best events taking place across The Valleys this summer as part of a tourism drive.

Maria and Viv Watkins, who both work for Caerphilly County Borough Council, attended Caerphilly’s Big Cheese Festival recently.

Viv said: “We love holidaying in Britain but the beauty, character and heritage of our local area can often be overlooked. The Valleys is home to a number of attractions steeped in history and culture, from 16th century manors to 13th century castles, and most of these venues play host to a variety of exciting events throughout the year.

“It’s a real pleasure to attend these summer events and to be able to capture the atmosphere and excitement of The Valleys and share this with others.”

The couple will be joined in their adventures by family of four Esther Nagel and Kevin Lavis and their children, Liam, 14 and Marcus, 18 months from Ystrad in Rhondda.

For more information visit

(C)PATRICK OLNER

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