Tourism Goes On Red Alert

Lincolnshire's multi-million pound tourism industry is set to get a boost from a new group set up in West Lindsey.

The Tourism Development Forum brings together all aspects of the tourism business to promote the area as a destination for visitors.

Chairman of the district council's Economic and Regeneration Committee, Cllr. Malcolm Parish, Conservative (Welton Ward) said:

"Members of the group include hoteliers, garden centre owners, proprietors of bed and breakfast businesses and people who run food outlets. In fact there a members from a whole host of tourism-related businesses.

"The aim is to promote tourism in as many ways of possible and for the group to work together to promote West Lindsey as a great place to visit."

The last Forum meeting was held at RAF Scampton when members were treated to a guided tour of the Red Arrows - the world famous aerobatic display team.

Owner of the Black Swan guest house in Marton, Mr. John Patrick, said:

"The visit was arranged by the Council and we are very lucky to have their direct involvement in tourism; because not all local authorities do."

The group is currently planning two training courses - one on marketing at the Beckett Arms in Corringham on Tuesday, 2nd March 2010, and the other on bed and breakfast profit at the Welton Manor Golf Centre on Tuesday 23rd March 2010.

Cllr. Parish said:

"Both events cost £15 per person and represent fantastic value for money. The marketing course examines latest trends on how to capture new customers and retain existing ones, how to maximise returns and how to make best use of the internet and social media.

"The bed and breakfast session includes sessions on stock control, minimising waste and menu planning that are all aimed at increasing profits."

The group is also planning a tourism brochure to be paid for by advertisers. Cllr. Parish said:

"The idea is to produce 7,000 brochures and each advertiser would have to pay at least £30 for their space. The brochures would be available at Tourist Information Centres, from car hire companies and at attractions including Market Rasen Racecourse, Gainsborough Old Hall and the Hemswell Antique and Craft Centre.

"We hope to be able to follow this up with another publication designed to help visitors tour our district whether they be on a day trip, a weekend visit or staying for a few days. The routes would be supported by advertisers.

"Tourism is the third largest foreign exchange earner in the United Kingdom and in West Lindsey alone it provides hundreds of jobs. It is important that we support tourism providers and I am sure that this Forum can play an important role in bringing more visitors to our district."