The appointment of telecommunications billionaire Sir Terry Matthews as Chair of the Swansea Bay City Region has been welcomed by Carmarthenshire County Council.

Council leader, Councillor Kevin Madge said the appointment was excellent news that would provide a real boost for the region.

“We have hit the jackpot,” he said.

“This is fantastic news, Sir Terry is one of the top business people in the world in my opinion.

“His record of success speaks for itself, this is very positive for West Wales and the Swansea Bay Region.

“We fully support the Minister’s appointment and look forward to working with Sir Terry to deliver great things for the region.”

Business Minister Edwina Hart recently asked Sir Terry to take up the post following the resignation of former Chair Cllr David Phillips of Swansea Council.

Sir Terry, who developed the Celtic Manor Resort and delivered both the Ryder Cup and the Nato conference, is considered to be one of Wales’ most successful entrepreneurs.

The city region, established last year, covers Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot.

Carmarthenshire’s regeneration executive board member Cllr Meryl Gravell, who is also Vice Chair of the city region, said: “Sir Terry will be a very welcome addition to the board, his knowledge, skills and expertise will help us drive forward the very ambitious vision we have for the region.

“Partnership is key to success- and working in partnership with Sir Terry and the board can only bring the success we want to deliver for people here in Carmarthenshire, and across the whole region.”