NEWS of a major accolade for a Vale of Clwyd town hasn't come as a surprise to the people that live there!

Ruthin is the best place to live according to the Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide.

The Sunday Times judges praised Ruthin for its historic town, medieval and Victorian buildings, atmospheric setting surrounded by the Clwydian hills, as well as its community hubs and excellent schools.

However, this should come as no surprise according to Cllr Emrys Wynne, who represents the town on Denbighshire County Council.

"People who live in Ruthin will already know that the town is amongst the best places to live in Wales, and if the Sunday Times newspaper says that it's actually the best place to live in Wales, I will not disagree!

"It's little wonder that many people who may have left Ruthin in the past either come back in later years or regard a return visit to the town as an occasion!

"Ruthin is often referred to as a jewel in the Vale of Clwyd with its interesting history, buildings and shops.

"It is also a town that is supported by businesses that provide local employment and schools that provide the town's children and young people first class education.

"And of course, Ruthin is abutted by areas of outstanding natural beauty and the sea which cater for its residents' leisure and well being."

READ MORE: Ruthin named best place in Wales to live by Sunday Times guide

Deputy mayor Anne Roberts believes the announcement will help to attract more tourists to the town.

As with all other places, the Covid-19 pandemic affected the subject of tourism to Ruthin.

"We have got coach-friendly status," stressed Cllr Roberts.

"I met with a man who came and looked at what we had to offer.

"We had the first one (coach-friendly status) awarded before Covid.

"He was more than happy to renew it."

The Sunday Times report states: “This beautiful, historic corner of the Vale of Clwyd provides the very best of small-town living.

"It may look sleepy from the outside, but scratch the surface and it’s a hive of activity.

"The market hall is the place for food and craft markets and pop-up restaurants, a disused bank has been converted into a repair cafe and the old courthouse is now a visitor hub and co-working space.

"There are all kinds of interesting independent businesses, producing everything from ice cream to roads.” 

Six other locations in Wales are featured in the comprehensive guide.

Ruthin pipped Abergavenny, Barmouth, Cardiff, the Gower peninsula, Narberth and Solva on the Welsh list.