Ellesmere Wharf has played host to the awarding of a cup for boosting tourism in North Wales.

Peter Jones, from the area, has been recognised with an award from The Inland Waterways Association for his work in promoting the Llangollen Canal and boosting tourism.

Michael Haig, chairman of IWA’s Shrewsbury District & North Wales Branch, presented the Tetlow Cup for outstanding services to the waterways at Ellesmere Wharf on July 1.

He said: “Peter has recently retired after more than 15 years running his eponymous trip boat business Jones the Boats, offering excursions across the iconic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

"During this time, he became one of the best-known figures on our local waterways and has done more than most to introduce (25,000) visitors to the wonders and delights of this stretch of the upper Llangollen Canal.”

Mr Jones added: “I was amazed and honoured to receive this award. It is a humbling experience for something like this to come out of the blue. I am truly flattered for what I have done to be appreciated by people from far and wide.”

Following the aqueduct’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mr Jones also found himself promoting the canal on TV programmes as diverse as Countryfile, and has played a leading role in establishing the World Heritage Site as a tourist destination.