CARDIFF choir Only Men Aloud! have been appointed the first official ambassadors for the capital.

The award comes as the choir prepare for the semi-final in the BBC's Last Choir Standing, to be broadcast live tomorrow.

Choir director Tim Rhys Jones said the 18-man ensemble, who have excited the UK with their upbeat and innovative style, were keen to spread the word about their home city.

He said: "Cardiff is gaining a reputation as a cool city and that's how we see our choir and our music.

"The city is going places and it is an honour for us to be chosen as ambassadors for the capital of Wales. Last Choir Standing has been a great opportunity for our choir and we are keen to help promote our city."

The choir are the first to be signed up to a ambassadorial initiative by the company tasked with marketing Cardiff as a leisure, tourism and business destination to the world, Cardiff & Co.

The company plans to recruit around 100 ambassadors, many business leaders with a strong networks outside of Wales.

Cardiff & Co managing director Richard Thomas said: "Only Men Aloud! have already proved Cardiff is a city of skill and talent. Like the city, they are forward-thinking and successful. We like that and are very keen for them to be our first official ambassadors."