THE EFFORTLESS charm and beauty of Tintern has been placed firmly on the rambling map with an award from the Walkers are Welcome group.

A successful bid by the Tintern Walkers are Welcome committee lead to the village gaining the accreditation as an area with something unique to offer walkers in the Wye.

Chairman of the Tintern Walkers are Welcome group, John Sterry, said: "It's a really positive step for business and walkers. I think we have done remarkably well for a village of just under 3,000 inhabitants. The village is in the middle of a wealth of walks and our businesses need promoting.

"We want to try and encourage walkers to stay longer in Tintern, rather than heading further done the Wye Valley walk without stopping."

Among the must-visit spots which helped boost their walkers status bid were the spectacular ruins of Tintern Abbey, the viewpoint of Devil's Pulpit and the scenic Offa's Dyke path.

Chairman John Sterry is now calling for local businesses to step up and meet the demands on the area they hope the new accolade will bring.