Tourism 'is a step ahead'

The delights of Cheddar Gorge, Wookey Hole, Glastonbury Tor, Wells and the wilds of Exmoor will be promoted to rich Chinese and Indian tourists after the launch of a new promotional drive for Somerset's tourism industry.

And fronting the push on Saturday were one of Somerset's most world-famous sons and one of its most renowned businessmen.

Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis joined Dragon's Den entrepreneur Duncan Bannatyne to kickstart a new initiative to get more international visitors to come to the land of cider and cheese.

Mr Eavis is patron of the Somerset Tourism Association, while Mr Bannatyne, who runs a huge chain of spa hotels and health clubs, including Charlton House in Shepton Mallet, is an active ambassador for the county's tourism association.

STA director John Turner said Somerset was a step ahead of the rest of the West by using successful entrepreneurs to revive the county's tourism economy.

"With David Cameron's announcement about entrepreneurs and visionary business people getting the UK economy back on its feet, it is perfect timing both Duncan and Michael are taking such an active interest in what the Somerset Tourism Association are doing," he said.

"We are committed to taking tourism forward and developing its profile in becoming even more of an economic driver.

"We are already working closely with many different objectives including international development, especially in Asian markets."

Mr Bannatyne said Somerset had a lot to offer international tourists.

"I am very pleased to be joining forces with Michael Eavis, Somerset County Council and directors from the STA," he said.

"I have continually kept up to date with what the STA is doing and am keen to throw my weight behind the organisation. A lot of its work is inspiring and forward thinking, especially the international initiatives, which I will follow closely."

County council chiefs were also heavily involved in the weekend conference launch.

David Hall from the council said tourism was now crucial for the county's economy, adding: "It is estimated to generate over a billion pounds of income each year and provide approximately 33,000 jobs. To have Duncan and Michael devoting their valuable time and energy in supporting the STA and its directors fills me with a great deal of optimism."

Source: http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/glastonburyfestival/Tourism-step-ahead/article-3333471-detail/article.html

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