SLOW broadband speeds across Flintshire are affecting the tourism industry, it has been claimed.

Welsh Conservative AM Mark Isherwood is calling for the Welsh Assembly to team up with telecom providers and improve Internet speeds in a bid to attract more tourists.

Mr Isherwood raised the matter in the Assembly during a debate on tourism after being approached by the Flintshire Tourism Association.

He said: “Guests assume that broadband will be available. Leisure tourism guests are making extensive use of the internet while on holiday and business users expect a high broadband speed and the lack of it will affect their decision on where to spend the night. This must be addressed by the Welsh Government, working with local authorities and the major telecom providers.”

Mr Isherwood also said the tourist attractions on offer in Flintshire need to be better advertised.

He added: “Flintshire is within the reach of 15.5 million potential visitors, a bigger pot than even Cardiff. It needs to be marketing far more in the midlands and north west of England.”