Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s massive boost to Welsh economy revealed

HOLLYWOOD stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have given a £1billion boost to Wales, tourism chiefs say.

They reckon the pair have raised the whole country’s profile since buying Wrexham AFC and making it the centre of their Disney+ show, Welcome to Wrexham.

North Wales Tourism boss Jim Jones said: “The Rob and Ryan factor would undoubtedly be worth more than £1billion if you had to pay for the equivalent coverage in advertising.

“They’ve raised our profile, especially in North America, and we’re already seeing an influx of tourists as a result — and they’re not just going to Wrexham.”

When the team went on a US tour, they boasted that the TV series has made them the “most popular team in America.”

Deadpool movie actor Reynolds and comedy pal McElhenney, star of Always Sunny in Philadelphia, have seen the team promoted to the English Football League.

Reynolds bought struggling Wrexham AFC with co-chairman McElhenney for £2m - and set up transforming their fortunes.

“After a particularly tough time in tourism and hospitality, Rob and Ryan are providing a ray of sunshine.”

Jones added: “We’ve got people ringing us up to book tours and they want executive tickets to watch Wrexham and while they’re here they also want to do other things to make the most of their visit.

“Once people come here they are enchanted because we have so much to offer. We have spectacular scenery, fantastic hospitality and amazing attractions in abundance.”