A spa in Aberystwyth, which opened late last year, has gained recognition at an awards dedicated to start-up businesses around Wales.

Rainwild Spa, which is based under the Marine Hotel in Aberystwyth, was shortlisted for the Consumer Services Start-Up of the Year award in the Wales Start-Up Awards.

Owner and manager of the spa Amy Whistance, from Llanfihangel-y-Creuddyn, said the recognition was a “silver lining” at a time of uncertainty for the business.

Rainwild opened in October 2019 and by January employed five local members of staff. However, a shadow of uncertainty has been cast over Rainwild, which had to close due to the coronavirus, and Amy fears for when the business may be able to reopen.

Amy commented: “The business was growing so fast on the run up to the coronavirus.

“Unfortunately we are still one of the industries that has not been given the go ahead to reopen and we are really uncertain as to how things will go when we do.

“However, this has been such a silver lining. Just to be shortlisted from the 540 business is such an honour.

“Such a lot of hard work and time has gone into Rainwild Spa, which I am sure so many business owners can identify with.

“You foresee all sorts of hurdles when starting a new business but not a pandemic!”