Welsh deputy first minister Ieuan Wyn Jones has told leading business figures that the Ryder Cup has helped make Wales a 'global player' for hosting major sports events.

Newport's Celtic Manor Resort is to stage the golf tournament between 1-3 October, and follows successful FA Cup Finals, the Rugby World Cup and last year's Ashes Test match to be held in the Principality. Jones told an audience of business figures in the City of London that hosting major sporting events had helped increase the profile of Wales, as well as attracting inward investment.

"Soon the eyes of the world will be on Wales, the Celtic Manor Resort, and the host city, Newport. Just think - television coverage of the last Ryder Cup at Valhalla had a potential reach of more than 750 million homes in nearly 200 countries," he said: " "I aim to build on the success we've achieved so far. But we're also flexible - ready to work with every company that can see our potential as a platform for trade and investment."

Image: The Celtic Manor resort is set to host the Ryder Cup