Tourism chiefs are teaming up with a Swiss ski resort in a bid to make North Wales a year-round destination for visitors.

The international partnership will see a new award at this year’s Go North Wales Tourism Awards to recognise businesses that keep their door open through the traditionally quieter winter months.

The 4 Seasons Tourism and Sustainability Award is sponsored by Switzerland’s Region Dents du Midi region which has become a key ally of event organisers North Wales Tourism.

It will be presented at Venue Cymru, Llandudno on 19 November.

The headline sponsors once again are Harlech Foodservice.

The window for submissions is open until 4 October. More details can be found at https://gonorthwalestourismawards.website/

North Wales Tourism CEO Jim Jones said: “We’re incredibly grateful to all our sponsors, particularly Harlech Foodservice who have been fantastic champions of the tourism and hospitality sector over many years.

“Harlech are a key employer and also have a real focus on supporting Welsh products and suppliers like Llaeth y Llan yoghurt, Edwards the Welsh Butcher and Snowdonia Cheese which gives visitors to North Wales a real sense of place.”

Harlech Foodservice managing director Mark Lawton said he was delighted that the company would be sponsoring the awards again because they are “passionate” about supporting tourism and creating jobs and prosperity in its North Wales heartland.

He said: “This is our chance to give something back to the businesses and people who have shown incredible resilience, creativity and determination through some very challenging times.

“We passionately believe North Wales has everything it takes to be one of the UK’s must-visit destinations, from stunning scenery and world-class attractions to our unique heritage and culture.”