THE tourist industry in Monmouthshire is being devastated by the dire weather according to county businesses and tourist organisations.

Jenny Taylor, owner of the Guest House, Oxford Street, Abergavenny, says businesses are struggling following the wettest June since records began.

Mrs Taylor, who is vicechair of Abergavenny and District Tourist Association, fears that if the rain continues it will be disastrous not just for those providing accommodation, but for restaurants, shops, and other businesses.

“The weather has been a wash-out for tourism. This diabolical season has added to the recession and has a knock-on effect on all businesses from café owners to hotels, restaurants and shops,” she said. “I have had a guest house for nine years and this is without a doubt the worst season we have ever experienced.

“I personally have had cancellations and early departures, resulting in a 33 percent downfall.”

Penny Tilston, of the Wye Valley What’s On Guide, said: “The poor weather has meant visitor numbers to the area are way down this year.

“With many last-minute trips to the region being postponed, that doesn’t just affect accommodation owners and tourist attractions, it has a serious knock-on effect across the whole sector.”

Events such as the Dragon Boat Race in Monmouth have been cancelled, and organisers of upcoming events are concerned they toomay have to postpone.

Owner of Hidden Valley Yurts in Chepstow, Amanda Copp, explained that they have suffered from loss of last minute bookings but luckily they had many people pre-book.

Rose Jones of Pont Kemys Caravan and Camping Park in Chainbridge, near Abergavenny, said it has been “possibly the worst summer we’ve had”.