Seaside Regeneration

Unemployment figures have topped 2 million for the first time in over a decade.

But for many seaside towns unemployment is not a new problem - research suggests rates can be double the national average.

The north Wales resort of Rhyl is typical - the West side of the town has the second highest benefit claimant rate in Wales and England with 68% receiving benefits.

But change is on the way. Rhyl and Colwyn Bay have been designated a social regeneration area by the Welsh Assembly Government while local MP Chris Ruane is heading a review into the causes of unemployment in 50 seaside towns across the UK.

So what's happened to our seaside towns? Have we seen the last of the bucket and spade holiday? And what can we do to bring back the tourists and increase employment?

In British Tourism Week, Wales@Work goes to the Rhyl Sun Centre to ask will the sun shine on Wales' seaside towns again?