WEST WORCESTERSHIRE MP Dame Harriett Baldwin has offered her support to local tourism venues as she joined MPs to hear plans to promote English Tourism Week.
The MP was briefed by tourism experts from Visit England and Worcestershire County Council to hear of the benefits visitors bring to the local economy.
There are more than 2200 tourism businesses across Worcestershire and visitors are estimated to welcome over 17 million visitors contributing £962 million to the local economy.
Dame Harriett said: “Tourism is hugely important to our local economy with major events like the Three Counties Show and the regular Three Choirs Festival as well as impressive destinations like Croome Court, Witley Court the Malvern Hills and Bredon Hill.
“There are many small and medium sized businesses that welcome visitors to our area and they do an amazing job. English Tourism Week is a chance for us all to recognise and support the great work they do.
“I will be out and about in West Worcestershire talking to local tourism business and helping to promote the sector as we look forward to warmer weather soon.”
Nigel Huddleston MP for Droitwich and Evesham and former minister for tourism, hosted the event.
It came ahead of British Tourism Week (14–23 March) and showcased the work of Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) from across England’s regions.
Mr Huddleston said: “As a former Tourism Minister I have always championed British tourism, and it was fantastic to welcome Visit England and representatives from across the country to Parliament.
“I am proud of the wonderful tourist attractions in my own constituency, from the historic spa heritage of Droitwich to the beautiful countryside and cultural sites in and around Evesham.
Mr Huddleston finished by sharing how great It was to see so many familiar faces and discuss ways to promote and grow the industry.
Patricia Yates, CEO of VisitEngland, added: “It was fantastic to bring our Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) to parliament to showcase to MPs how tourism is delivering growth and driving investment for local economies, as well as delivering for local places and communities.”
