Issue 43 November/December £2.75

UK’s imageoverseas‘improved’By Christina Eccles

THE image of the UK overseas hasimproved significantly, according tofigures, ahead of what will be a criti-cal year for British tourism.

The annual Anholt-GFK RoperNation Brands Index showed notableimprovements across a number ofkey indicators, which according tothe index, position the country asthe third most admired globally andone of the strongest and most wellrounded nations in the world.

The results reveal the UK is alsoone of the few countries to featurein the top six slots within each ofthe six brand measurements thatthe NBI analyses annually.

Britain’s enhanced standing on theworld stage has been boosted byrespondents’ views on areas suchas the appeal of the country’s his-toric landmarks and vibrant city life.

It is also viewed as an interestingand exciting place for contemporaryculture – with music, films, art, liter-ature and sports all areas stronglyassociated with the British.

Chief executive of VisitBritainSandie Dawe said: “This year’s NBIreport provides yet another insightfulscorecard for the UK. It shows that

the overwhelming perception ofBritain by overseas visitors is posi-tive and that our image is improvingsignificantly in many of the coun-tries in which we operate aroundthe world.

“Particularly encouraging is thenews that China and India – twovital markets offering long-termgrowth potential for inbound tourism– rank the UK very highly as anaspirational destination. It is ourambition to attract an additionalfour million overseas visitors overthe next four years, and that willmean turning these positive percep-tions into new arrivals.

“All this underpins how important itis for VisitBritain to increase ourefforts over the coming year if weare to continue to climb up theworld rankings and make the mostof the opportunities that lie ahead.”

The report also highlighted areasfor improvement, which include fur-ther educating visitors on Britain’snatural beauty and ensuring thedestination provides a friendly wel-come for international visitorsattending for major events in 2012such as the London Olympic andParalympic Games and the Queen’sdiamond jubilee.

THE number of internationaltrips taken to Yorkshire hasgrown by 22 per cent, accord-ing to figures, compared withonly a three per cent increasenationally.

The latest InternationalPassenger Survey results forthe second quarter of 2011(April-June) shows that notonly are more visitors fromoverseas coming to Yorkshire,they are also spending more.

Chief executive of Welcometo Yorkshire Gary Verity said:“This is excellent news andvalidates the work we havebeen undertaking overseas tobring visitors to Yorkshire. It’salso a good indication that ourcounty may well be the topdestination outside of Londonfor people visiting the UK bothin the lead up to and duringthe 2012 Games.”

The growth in visitor num-bers and their spending fol-lows extensive marketing andPR campaigns in various overseas markets, includingGermany, France and Asia.

Gary added: “Our activityoverseas has been vital ingrowing the regional visitoreconomy and it’s clear ourapproach is working. We havesome exciting projects in thepipeline for next year.”

Singing star Pixie Lott was among theperformers at Blackpool’s big illumi-nations switch on, which attractedthousands of spectators.The lights were switched on by TVcomedian Keith Lemon, with otherfamous faces appearing on the nightincluding Olly Murs and Scouting forGirls. Picture: Helga Esteb /Shutterstock.com� For full story, see our Blackpoolfeature, Page 18

Internationaltrips toYorkshireup 22%

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Entertainmentnews inCentrestagestarting on Page 13

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SSoouutthh EEaasstt PPaaggee 1100

ContactsEDITORIALAndrew Harrod group editor 01226 734639 ah@whpl.netChristina Eccles reporter 01226 734463 ce@whpl.netDominic Musgrave reporter 01226 734407 dm@whpl.net

PRODUCTIONJudith Halkerston – group deputyeditor – jhalkerston@whpl.netStewart Holt – studio manager –sth@whpl.netLaura Blackburn – graphic designerlb@whpl.net

ADVERTISING

Andrew Loadesassistant product manager01226 734482Tony Barrysales and marketing director01226 734605/01226 734333

CIRCULATION

Kelly Tarff01226 734695 kt@whpl.netFax: 01226 734477

Web: www.destination.uk.com

A NEW visitor attraction is set toopen in York next spring celebratingthe city’s chocolate andconfectionary heritage.

The project, which has the workingtitle The Sweet History of York, isthe brainchild of visitor attractiongroup Continuum.

Work has already started ontransforming a three storey buildingat the end of the world famousShambles into an immersiveexperience telling the story of York’sconfectionery trading andmanufacturing past.

When the doors open, visitors willbe treated to the inside story of the

famous chocolates and sweets thatstarted their lives in York.

Favourites expected to have astarring role include Kit Kat andTerry’s Chocolate Orange, as well as a behind-the-scenes lookinto the lives of the people whoconcocted these chocolatecreations from the 19th to the21st century.

Chief executive of ContinuumJuliana Delaney said: “York has hadchocolate and confectionery at itsheart for over 150 years. This is atale as important as any to that ofYork and the UK’s industrial andcultural heritage, yet it remainsuntold until now.

“We are very much looking forwardto bringing the story to life and havealready received fantastic supportfor the project from the City Council,Science City York, several of thecity’s biggest companies, Visit Yorkand Welcome to Yorkshire.

“Reports produced by the Councilcall for additions to the tourismoffer in York and we hope to addvalue to the fantastic visitorexperience the city already offersand give visitors a reason to comeback to Yorkshire.

“We are delighted to have beengiven the opportunity to deliver!”

Sweet talk of newattraction in York

LONDON has been named as theUK’s favourite city by readers ofThe Telegraph.

The capital came top in thepublication’s annual travelawards, following a poll of

23,000 readers who were askedabout their favourite destinationsand companies.

Gordon Innes, CEO of Londonand Partners, the capital’spromotional organisation, said:

“London is a truly world classcity and we are delighted thatthe Telegraph readers haverecognised how much there is to offer, whether you havebeen once, twice or twenty times

to the capital. 2012 is anincredibly exciting year for thecapital, and there is so much tosee and do before next summer,that there hasn’t been a bettertime to visit.”

London named UK’s favourite city

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ONE lucky visitor to Edinburgh’sHogmanay celebrations will begiven the chance to start 2012with a bang, thanks to a money-can’t-buy competition.

VisitScotland, Edinburgh’sHogmanay and FestivalsEdinburgh have teamed up togive the winner a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to kick off thecity’s firework display and see theNew Year in in style.

The competition, which hasbeen promoted on VisitScotland’sUK and Ireland Surprise Yourselfwebsite, the European Cities(Europe) and Come to Scotland(North America) sites is designedto tell the world about thecelebrations going on in the citythroughout the Hogmanay period.

The prize also includes travel to

and from Edinburgh, a three-nightstay at the four-star ApexWaterloo Place hotel and threeday Edinburgh Pass.

VisitScotland’s chairman MikeCantlay said: “This really is thechance of a lifetime. TheHogmanay celebrations are avitally important time for Scotlandwith the world’s eyes cast onEdinburgh for that big moment atmidnight. For someone to saythat they started the world’sbiggest party off, it really doesn’tget any better than that.”

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay artisticdirector Pete Irvine added: “Theopportunity for someone to travelto the ‘Home of Hogmanay’ tostart our world famous fireworksis incredibly exciting and will bean experience they will never

forget. The Midnight Fireworks isbroadcast globally to an audienceof over one billion people and tosay that you ‘pushed the button’that started celebrations aroundthe world will be unforgettable.”

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is a keypart of Scotland’s tourismcalendar, and was worth morethan £32m to the Scottisheconomy last year, with 132,000people coming to Edinburgh overthe three day celebrations.

The night will also mark thestart of the Year of CreativeScotland 2012 – the third in aseries of focus years leading upto Homecoming 2014, acting asa year-long celebration ofScottish culture and creativitythrough events and initiativesaround the country.

A Hogmanay prizemoney can’t buy ...

Brochurefocuseson holidayhighlightsSOUTH Lakeland Parks has created anew brochure which focuses onguests’ personal and emotionalholiday highlights.

As part of a campaign to getcustomers to think about theemotional connections that makethem choose the ideal holiday, thebrochure focuses on real customers,with holiday experiences from guestsshared throughout.

The accompanying website hasalso been designed to focus onemotions and here guests canupload their perfect holidaymoments via pictures and stories forothers to read.

Group marketing manager CarolineFarrer said: “We wanted to get backto basics in terms of why people willpick up and read our holidaybrochure.

“We are continually receivingfeedback about how much peoplelove their holidays and how theyenjoy sharing that experience viawebsites like Facebook and Twitter.

“We are offering our visitors anopportunity to tell their own storiesabout their holidays at our parksand hopefully encourage like-minded people to come and stayand see for themselves.

Registrationsopen fortravel showONLINE registrations are now openfor the first South West Group TravelShow, which has already attractedalmost 40 exhibitors keen toshowcase their offerings to the traveltrade.

The new, free entry show willbe held on Saturday January 14at interactive science centre At-Bristol, organised by TourismSouth East and Group TravelOrganiser.

Travel trade manager at TourismSouth East, Elaine Pearce said: “Weare very pleased with the high levelof support for the first South WestGroup Travel Show.

“There is a wide cross-section ofexhibitors from smaller, lesserknown attractions to largerorganisations all keen to talk togroup organisers.

“This first show is set to be a hugesuccess and we look forward tobuilding on it for future years.”

Exhibitors who have alreadybooked stands include Beaulieu,Cotswold Wildlife Park, the NationalMaritime Museum Cornwall andPowderham Castle.

A HOTEL and restaurant in the PeakDistrict has renewed its status as an AAInspectors’ Choice Red Star top hotel.

Rowsley’s hotel and restaurant EastLodge was recognised at a prestigiousannual awards ceremony in Londonpresented by Sophie Raworth.

Deputy managing director IainHardman said: “It is a great honourand achievement to have beenawarded the AA Red Stars once againand to receive them at such anamazing event makes it even morespecial. Our success is a team effortand a credit to the hard work of all ourstaff. Receiving the accolade for thefifth year confirms that our team atEast Lodge is continuing to deliver anoutstanding overall guest experiencethat has helped to give our hotel andrestaurant the national recognition itdeserves.”

East Lodge deputy managing director Iain Hardman with his wifeCarly.

Venue earnsrecognition

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Campaign aimsto boost valueof tourismBy Christina Eccles

THE Peak District and Derbyshire isto benefit from a major three-yearcampaign to boost the economicvalue of tourism and create morejobs.

The area is one of a number ofkey tourism destinations set toshare in national tourist boardVisitEngland’s successful bid forfunding from the Government’sRegional Growth Fund.

The money will be spent on aGrowing Tourism Locally campaign,whose main focus will be to inspireBritons to spend more short breaksand holidays at home and increasethe number of jobs in the tourismsector.

Chief executive of Visit PeakDistrict and Derbyshire David Jamessaid: “This is excellent news as wepursue our quest to supportVisitEngland initiatives to fullyexploit tourism’s huge potential tohelp rejuvenate Britain’s economy,support local tourism businessesand create employment.

“We have been working closelywith the national tourist board tomaximise the industry’s role increating and sustaining vibrant andviable conditions to promote currentand future prosperity for all.

“This welcome announcementmeans that we will be able toconsolidate and build on the solidfoundations we have built over thepast six years – including a hugereturn on investment on ourmarketing campaigns in 2010.

“We look forward to continuing towork in partnership with VisitEnglandover the next three years to make

the Growing Tourism Locally initiativea success – locally, regionally andnationally.”

Other destinations to benefit fromthe campaign include Bath,Birmingham, Cumbria, Manchester,Merseyside, Newcastle andNottinghamshire.

The money will be spent ondesigning and implementing localcampaigns with partner destinationsand on wider thematic campaignsfocusing on countryside, heritage,coastal and business tourism, from2012 through to 2015.

VisitEngland’s chief executiveJames Berresford added: “This is ahuge boost for tourism in Englandand acknowledgment of the value ofour industry to England’s economy.We will be working in partnershipwith the Peak District to facilitategrowth at a local level.”

David James

Cabin crew from three leading airlines were joined by models on arunway with a difference to unveil plans for retail festival LeedsLoves Shopping.The indoor runway was created by festival organiser MarketingLeeds to promote the event, which celebrates the vibrancy of thecity’s retail offering throughout October.� Picture: Emma Holliday and James Broughton of Leeds BradfordAirport join the Ryanair, Jet2.com and bmi Regional models andcabin crew with Capital FM’s JoJo.

The grounds of The Bowes Museum at Barnard Castle will betransformed into a winter wonderland for the return of the annualChristmas market on December 18. Features at the event willinclude real reindeer, over 80 festive stalls and a Santa’s grotto foryounger visitors.

Brand takes award for fourth yearTHE UK’s biggest budget hotelbrand, Premier Inn, has been votedthe leading economy hotel brandfor the fourth year running.

The JD Power EuropeanEconomy Hotel Guest SatisfactionSurvey examined the overallsatisfaction of European hotelguests based on seven measures.

Premier Inn performed well inthe areas of reservations; check-in/check-out; guest room; food

and beverage; hotel facilities;costs and fees.

Sales and marketing director forWhitbread Hotels and RestaurantsGerard Tempest said: “Receivingthis award is a testament to thehard work of our teams and theircommitment to ensuring thatevery guest has a great stay withus. Premier Inn is absolutelydelighted to receive this award forthe fourth consecutive year.”

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OLYMPIC gold medallist HeatherMitts has visited Wiltshire as partof a campaign to encourageAmerican tourists to explore moreof the UK while they are here forthe London 2012 Olympic andParalympic Games.

VisitWiltshire linked up withVisitBritain and the U.S. OlympicCommittee to host the visit whereseven American Olympic andParalympic champions toured theUK – with Heather visitingWiltshire landmark Stonehenge.

Chief executive of VisitWiltshireDavid Andrews said: “Stonehengeis one of the most recognisedand iconic attractions in the UKand we were delighted to be ableto welcome Heather and herteam mates. I’m sure it will actas a great driver for Americantourists to Stonehenge andindeed other parts of Wiltshire.It’s also great promotion for visitsinto the stone circle at

Stonehenge, as I’m sure afterseeing Heather getting up closeto the magnificent stones,everyone will want to book one ofthese special after hourssessions.”

English Heritage looks afterStonehenge on behalf of thenation and Peter Carson, head ofStonehenge at English Heritage,added: “London’s winning bid tohost the 2012 Olympic Gamesstressed the rich heritage acrossthe country and English Heritagewas therefore delighted towelcome the USA Olympics Teamto Stonehenge, one of the world’smost iconic ancient monuments.Both this visit and the Games area fantastic opportunity to showAmerica the special historicplaces that are waiting to bediscovered in Wiltshire andaround the country.”

During the months leading up tothe Games, VisitWiltshire will be

working with VisitBritain tomaximise opportunities to

promote the county tointernational visitors.

Olympians visit Wiltshire aspart of American campaign

Cumbrian groupsecures fundingfor improvementsA GROUP of Cumbrianaccommodation providers havebenefited from funding worth over£1.4m to make improvements totheir properties.

10 providers from across thecounty have received moneyfrom the Rural NorthwestTourism Connect Programme,which is designed to raisebusiness performance and driveup accommodation standards inthe region.

The scheme provides grants ofbetween £25,000 and £60,000to serviced accommodationbusinesses as part of a drive toboost the quality of visitoraccommodation in the county.

Businesses have been assistedthrough the use of professionaldesigners, environmental orbusiness planning advice,encouraging training, marketingand ICT development, bringingtogether a ‘whole business’approach, with economic andenvironmental sustainability theunderlying objective.

The properties that havebenefitted are:� Applegarth Villa, Windermere� Broadoaks Country House,Troutbeck� Cedar Manor Hotel,Windermere

� Cottage in the Wood,Braithwaite� Gosforth Hall Inn, Gosforth� Hawksmoor Guest House,Windermere� Hill Crest Country GuestHouse, Newby Bridge� Irton Hall GuestAccommodation, Holmrook� Rosemount Guest House,Windermere� Woolpack Inn, Eskdale

Managing director of CumbriaTourism Ian Stephens said: “TheRural Northwest Tourism Connectscheme is highly successful andhas already helped a number ofour accommodation providers toraise their standards. This isparticularly important asconstant improvement ensuresthat we, as the UK’s top visitordestination, continue to competeat a world class level. Byinvesting we can ensure that weconstantly improve and enhancethe visitor experience andthereby maintain our position asone of the top destinations ofchoice in the UK.’’

Cumbria Tourism is stillaccepting applications and isparticularly keen to hear frombusinesses on the Solway Coast,in Carlisle’s rural districts andthe Eden Valley.

Jim Gordon has been promoted tomanaging director at LegacyHotels and Resorts as its portfoliocontinues to grow.Jim, who was previously groupfinance director, now overseasadditional areas within thecompany, with the property, healthand safety and human resourceteams now reporting directly tohim.He said: “We want to prepare the

business for the next stage ofgrowth. Our turnover has grownfrom under £1m to £1.5m in thelast financial year and our nextgoal is to break through the £2mbarrier next year.“In terms of numbers we have 12hotels under full operation andmanagement contracts as well as19 associate hotels and our targetis to reach 18 fully managedhotels within the next year.”

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Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderlandis celebrating its fifth birthdayby expanding the range ofentertainment on offer tovisitors.The attraction’s popular ice rinkhas been transformed with108,000 pea-lights which willilluminate the ice at night.Other favourite attractionsmaking a return include theiconic Giant Observation Wheel,the Angels Christmas Marketand Zippos Circus.There will also be more cafes,bars and restaurants on offer aswell as three new rides in theAlpine Adventure area.

VISITOR numbers to London in the second quarter of2011 were up over 12 per cent year on year, figures haveshown.

Figures from the International Passenger Surveyrevealed London welcomed 4.03m visitors from April toJune – with visits from the capital’s biggest inboundmarket, North America, up by 8.6 per cent and fromEurope 10.4 per cent.

CEO of London and Partners Gordon Innes said: “Wehad lots to celebrate in London during this quarter,notably key one off events such as the Royal Wedding,and UEFA Champions League which both attractedhundreds of thousands visitors to the capital.Wimbledon, Chelsea Flower Show and other annualevents can also be attributed to this impressive upturn.We look forward to seeing this upward trend continuefor the rest of the year.”

Visitor numbers up

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THE beauty of flowers in the King'sapartments await groups thisMother’s Day weekend March 16-18at Hampton Court Palace.

The 17th century abode of WilliamIII sets the scene for Florimania nextspring with flamboyant floralcreations displayed in the finest andmost important Baroque stateapartments in the world.

The NAFAS (National Associationof Flower Arrangement Societies),volunteers will offer flower arrangingdemonstrations throughout theweekend.

This popular event over Mothering

Sunday weekend, March 16-182012 is included in admission togive your groups a great value dayout.

After enjoying the flowers insidethe palace, step outside wherethere are over 60 acres of gloriousgardens to explore with popularfeatures such as the maze and thegreat vine.

Why not rest a while and treatyourself to the scrumptious delightsin the Tiltyard café where creamteas and light lunches are serveddaily.

Palace in bloomfor Mother’s Day

LONDON’S restaurant scene is goingfrom strength to strength, with thecapital now having 55 Michelinstarred restaurants, according to thelatest Michelin Guide.

This year, four new restaurantshave joined the prestigious list ofMichelin starred eateries includingDinner by Heston Blumenthal andPollen Street Social by chef JasonAtherton. The city now has tworestaurants with three stars, sevenwith two stars and 46 restaurantswith one star.

Four newLondonadditionsto Guide

A RESTAURANT is set to open inLondon this December which willtransport diners on a journey toRussia.

Mari Vanna will be situated in theheart of Knightsbridge and will offerRussian dishes with influences fromArmenia, Georgia and Uzbekistan.

Launched originally in StPetersburg, where it’s said that amythical woman named Mari Vannawelcomed guests and travellers intoher kitchen for home cooked dishes,there are sister restaurants in Mos-cow, St Petersburg and New York.

New restaurant

A LONDON hotel has created aspecial Christmas package forvisitors which celebrates itspartnership with a top festiveattraction.

The Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel isthe official hotel for the NaturalHistory Museum’s ice rink andhas launched Spirit of Christmasto combine a stay at theproperty with an ice skating trip.

Guests who book the packagewill also be treated to a bespokecandle making course and awinter warmer cocktail from thehotel’s newly opened bar andkitchen.

Special Christmas package plan

SINGIN’ in the Rain is to transfer to London’s Palace Theatre following a critically acclaimed, sell-out run at Chichester FestivalTheatre.

Jonathan Church’s production,with choreography by AndrewWright, is based on the classic

1952 MGM film and produced inthe West End by StageEntertainment UK and ChichesterFestival Theatre.

The show will open on February 15with a cast led by Adam Cooper,Daniel Crossley, Scarlett Strallenand Katherine Kingsley.

Musical onthe move

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PRE-register and come along toExcursions 2012, the UK’s premierone-day group travel show atAlexandra Palace, North London onSaturday January 28, and you will beentered into a free prize draw to winone of the many exciting prizesoffered by exhibitors.

These include a rare opportunityfor the winner and four guests topull the lever that raises London’sfamous Tower Bridge and a twonight dinner, B&B break for two with

Brook Hotels worth £470. Severalattractions are offering special tourswith refreshments includingLondon’s Shakespeare’s Globe,Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower andWaddesdon Manor, near Aylesbury.The full list can be viewed online.

The number of exhibitors at thefree entry show is expected to beover 250 including attractions,stately homes, gardens,destinations, accommodationproviders and much more.

Prizes to be won atExcursions 2012

A NEW sustainable tourism campaignhas been launched which urgesvisitors to explore the landscapes ofSouth East England.

Our Land unites and celebratesthe nine protected landscapes ofthe region – the first time such acollaboration has been created – ina new central tourism website.

More than a third of the SouthEast is officially classified asprotected landscape – with twoNational Parks and seven Areas ofOutstanding Natural Beauty – andvisitors can now use the site to findand book their next holiday and viewsuggested itineraries which take in

the best sites.Local businesses can also sign up

to the scheme to benefit from freeor discounted inclusion on thewebsite, support developing theirinteraction with the landscape andthe promotional materials.

To qualify as partners, businessesmust agree to the ‘Our LandPromise’ to offer authenticexperiences that celebrate thecultural and natural history of theregion and demonstrate to visitorstheir commitment to theenvironment.

The website is hosted byresponsibletravel.com and MD

Justin Francis said: "We have someof the most diverse landscapes onour doorstep but too many areunaware of the riches that can beless than an hour away by bus, bikeor train. Our aim is to reconnectpeople that live in the South Eastwith our shared heritage to ensure itis enjoyed, whilst being conservedfor centuries to come.”

CEO of Visit England JamesBerresford added: "Within theStrategic Framework for EnglishTourism the Rural Tourism ActionPlan aims to significantly increasethe economic benefits of tourism tolocal communities, and the Wise

Growth Action Plan embeds theprinciples of balancing growth withsustainability across the industry.Our Land is a very good example ofputting these strategic plans in toaction. In time I hope it will developbeyond the South East."

As well as working with localtourism businesses, Our Land willcollaborate with membership orga-nisations, transport providers andthe media to promote the range ofvisitor attractions on offer in theprotected landscapes. The schemehas been made possible thanks to a£1m grant from the Rural Develop-ment Programme for England.

The Isle of Wight and the Cotswolds are two of the region’s areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Campaign celebrates protected landscapes

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NATIONAL Museums Scotland has successfullyteamed up with VisitScotland as part of thetourism organisation’s Surprise Yourselfcampaign.

The partnership, which has been runningsince the end of August, has already seennearly a million people from across the UK andIreland view information through jointmarketing materials and the Surprise Yourselfwebsite, with millions more people expected tosee further information over the comingmonths.

Chief executive of VisitScotland MalcolmRoughead said: “Anyone who steps inside themagnificently refurbished museum willimmediately be struck by the fantasticexperience on offer.

“The partnership between VisitScotland andThe National Museum of Scotland as part ofour Surprise Yourself campaign will give thechance for millions of people to be inspired tosee one of Scotland’s newest and best visitorattractions.”

Surprise Yourselfpartnershipis formed ...

New regional formatis rolled out forthe Thistle awards

SCOTLAND’S biggest tourismtrade show is set to return toEdinburgh after a five-yearabsence – potentially generatingover £1.7m for the city’seconomy.

VisitScotland expo, which willsee around 230 tourismbusinesses showcase theirproducts to tour operators fromall over the world, will come tothe Royal Highland Centre,Edinburgh, on April 25 and 26next year.

VisitScotland chairman MikeCantlay said: “We are delightedto be bringing Scotland’s flagshipbusiness-to-business travel tradeshow back to Edinburgh. Expo2011, which took place inAberdeen in April, proved afantastic showcase for the whole of Scotland, as buyersfrom the likes of the USA,Canada and Europe, as well as emerging markets such as India and Russia, sought toadd Scotland to their touritineraries.

“Every exhibitor I spoke to whilein Aberdeen said that they madeexcellent contacts from both theinternational and UK markets.The value of expo is clear: theaverage potential value ofbusiness as a result of attendingExpo as an exhibitor is £28,000,with some businesses quoting values as high as£100,000.”

Last time VisitScotland expowas held in Edinburgh, in 2007,more than 1,000 peopledescended on the Royal HighlandCentre.

THE format of VisitScotland’sScottish Thistle Awards is changing –following widespread consultationwith the tourism industry.

The changes include creating anew regional format – whichrecognises tourism excellenceacross the country – delivering ayear-round programme of activityand revamping the final eventformat.

VisitScotland will now run aprogramme of four localisedScottish Thistle Award celebrationswhich will take place between Apriland May 2012.

These events will see local tourismbusinesses compete in 12categories, winning the chance tomove forward to the main nationalevent in November 2012.

The regional award areas will be:North East, South/Central East,South/Central West with the winnersof each progressing to representthe region at the final awardsceremony.

The awards will also be workingwith the already successfulHighlands and Islands’ TourismAwards with their finalistsautomatically progressing torepresent the region at the final andgoing forward.

Chief executive of VisitScotlandMalcolm Roughead said: “Since1992 the Scottish Thistle Awardshave led the way in terms ofrecognising the brilliant tourismorganisations and businesses thatthis country has to offer. The newformat will allow us to extend thisfurther, reaching all regions in

Scotland, which will not only allowus to recognise those who aremaking a real difference, but also tounlock the massive potential inothers.”

Charlie Marshall, businessdevelopment manager at previousaward winner, the Scottish SeabirdCentre, added: “We welcome thechange in format.

“Not only will it allow the awardsto engage with all regions ofScotland, it also ensures that thatthe prestige of the awards isenhanced.

“The Scottish Thistle Awardsrecognise excellence within thetourism industry and this move willallow more people than ever to getinvolved.”

Edinburghreturn fortrade show

TOURISM in the Highlands couldbe given a lucrative boostfollowing a visit from Chineseofficials looking to promote thearea in their country.

A delegation of six highranking politicians from Benximade a special request to seethe area after being visited by

a group of tourism represent-atives from Loch Ness andInverness.

Since meeting in 2008, thetwo regions have been in closecontact, signing agroundbreaking co-promotiontourism agreement.

The initiative has the potential

to attract more visitors totravel to the Highlands fromChina both as part of groups or as individuals,bringing a big benefit to thelocal economy with the average Chinese holiday spendbelieved to be in the region of£5,000.

Lucrative boost for Highlands tourism

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FROM producers Whoopi Goldberg and StageEntertainment (Hairspray, High School Musical),the five times Tony nominated West End andBroadway hit Sister Act is embarking on a UK-wide tour.

When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnessesa murder, she is put into protective custody inthe one place the cops are sure she won’t befound – a convent!

Disguised as a nun she quickly finds fansamongst her fellow ‘sisters’ but makes thewrong impression on the convent’s strictMother Superior.

But when she turns her attention to thechurch’s off-key choir, helping the nuns to findtheir true voices and breathing new life into therundown neighbourhood, her cover could beblown for good. With the gang giving chase, istime running out for Deloris? Or have theyunderestimated the power of her new foundSisterhood?

Based on the smash hit movie of the samename, this fabulous, family-friendly, feel-goodshow is packed with songs inspired by Motown,funk, soul and disco. More than a millionpeople saw Sister Act at the London Palladiumand now, as the habit hits the road in thismulti-million pound production, you too cansee why musical audiences fell in love with thefunniest and funkiest nun on the run, and herheavenly sequinned sisters!

Nun on therun is funall the way

Susan to join cast ofI Dreamed a DreamSINGING sensation Susan Boyle willbe joining the cast of I Dreamed aDream, the musical based on herlife story, which will be touringtheatres across the UK and Irelandnext year.

Taking on the lead role of Susanwill be Elaine C Smith, best knownfor her portrayal of Mary Doll in RabC Nesbitt on BBC television.

Producer Michael Harrison said:

“Having Susan join the cast toperform the finale of her musical isamazing for both ourselves andaudiences across the UK andIreland. Susan continues to defy theodds and surprise the world with herrecord-breaking albums.

“Now she can add a musical toher list of achievements and I can'twait to see the audience reactionwhen she walks on stage.”

Susan Boyle and Elaine C SmithTHE smash hit musical, Sister Acthas just embarked on a regional tourof the UK, bringing the soulfulsisterhood to key cities across thecountry.

This devine musical comedy is afun night out for all and agents cannow promote short breaks in greatcities such as Bristol, Dublin, Cardiffand Birmingham with Superbreakwhich comibine overnightaccommoation with tickets to theshow. So remember, theatre breaksare not just about London – thereare plenty on offer around the UK.

The show tells the story of discodiva Deloris Van Cartier, who whenshe witnesses a murder is put inprotective custody in the one placecops are sure she won't be found –a convent!

Disguised as a nun, she findsherself at odds with both the rigidlifestyle and an uptight MotherSuperior. Using her unique discomoves and singing talent to inspirethe choir, Deloris breathes new lifeinto the church and community, butin doing so blows her cover. Soonthe gang are giving chase, only tofind themselves up against Delorisand the power of her new foundSister Hood. The show recreates themagic of the film on stage with araft of toe-tapping numbers andfast-paced, funny action.

For more information or to bookcall Superbreak on 0871 222

3055 or log ontowww.superbreak.com

Sisters on the move ...

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THE Royal Shakespeare Company iscelebrating the 400th anniversary ofthe making of the King James Biblewith a new play by acclaimedplaywright David Edgar this autumn.

Written on the Heart tells thefunny and moving story oftranslators William Tyndale andLancelot Andrewes, both working tothe same end but in very differentcircumstances 80 years apart.

Directed by RSC chief associatedirector Gregory Doran, whoseproduction of Cardenio,Shakespeare’s ‘lost play’ re-imagined played in the SwanTheatre this summer, Written on theHeart was written for the RSC byDavid Edgar, whose work for theCompany includes Maydays andPentecost.

Lancelot Andrewes is played byOliver Ford Davies, who appearedmost recently with the RSC asPolonius in the 2008 production ofHamlet. Joining him to play WilliamTyndale is Stephen Boxer, whoplayed the role of Petruchio in the2008 production of The Taming ofthe Shrew.

Written on the Heart plays at theSwan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon,until March 10 2012 and tickets

start from just £14 – book online atwww.rsc.org.uk/written or call theRSC Ticket Hotline on 0844 8001110.

New play celebratesBible anniversary

Two of Portsmouth’s favourite attractions have teamed up to offergroups a new pantomime experience this Christmas. The SpinnakerTower and The King’s Theatre have teamed up to offer groups of 15or more the chance to combine a trip up the 170m tower followedby an enchanting performance of Cinderella, starring Tracy Shaw ofCoronation Street fame and Marcus Patrick.

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HIT musical LegallyBlonde will be making itsonly Devon stop atTorquay’s PrincessTheatre later this month.

The cast is led by FayeBrookes, Iwan Lewis andClaire Sweeney and theUK tour follows on fromthe show’s success inthe West End and onBroadway.

Princess Theatremanager Wendy Bennettsaid: “Legally Blonde isundoubtedly the mostexciting event this year

at the Princess Theatreand we can’t wait for itto arrive. Never beforehas the Princess playedhost to something soprestigious and we feelso lucky to be the onlyvenue in Devon andCornwall to receive thisfantastic show on itsfirst ever UK tour.

“There will be aglorious glow of pinkaround the Princess thisNovember for what isguaranteed to be aEllesational two weeks.”

Legally Blonde Pictures: Johan Persson

Legally Blondeheads for Devon ...ENCORE Tickets revealed its biggest ever

offering to the trade at this year’s World TravelMarket.

To celebrate another successful year, whichsaw larger ticket allocations and more specialrates for groups, the company incorporated aperformance from hit stage show Rock ofAges into its annual WTM party.

Managing director John Wales said: “2011has been another great year for EncoreTickets. Looking forward, 2012 brings theexcitement of many great new showsalongside the challenge of the Olympicperiod. We are working closely with theproducers of all the West End shows toensure our customers get the best seats andrates across the year to ensure they enjoy asuccessful 2012.”

Another great year ...

THIS November The RoyalShakespeare Company’s (RSC)production of Roald Dahl’s MatildaThe Musical opens at theCambridge Theatre in London’s WestEnd.

Following a hugely successful runat the RSC in Stratford-Upon-Avonwhere it played to sold outaudiences, Matilda The Musical issure to become a huge success inLondon.

Short break specialist, Superbreakhas packages on sale that combineovernight accommodation at arange of hotels with tickets to seethe show.

Roald Dahl’s much-loved storyabout a girl with extraordinarypowers bursts into life on stage inthis brand new musical version byDennis Kelly and award-winningmusician and comedian TimMinchin.

Matilda Wormwood’s parents thinkshe is a nuisance and she thinks,quite rightly, they are only interestedin watching telly. Life is not muchbetter at school, where themonstrous headmistress MissTrunchbull terrifies both studentsand teachers alike.

Then one day Matilda discoversshe has a very special power anddecides it's time the grown-ups weretaught a lesson.

Be warned, the children arerevolting … Be reassured, adultswill love this show even more thanthe children

The entire creative team willreassemble to create the London

production and many adult castmembers from the originalproduction will reprise their roles atthe Cambridge Theatre.

In 1996 the fantastic story ofMatilda was adapted into a film andnow the stage adaptation is takingthe theatre world by storm.

The Musical was awarded thePeter Heppie Award for Best Musicalat The Critics Circle Award.

Sample packages include:Three star package – from £131ppstaying one night b/b at the three starPresident Hotel and including a toppriced ticket to the show. Valid any dayof the week until the end of December. Based on two sharing.

Four Star package – from £160pp staying one night b/b at the four starCavendish Hotel including a Top price ticket to the show. Valid Fridayevenings until the end of December. Based on two sharing.

For more information and bookings call Superbreak 0871 221 4444 or visitwww.superbreak.com/agents

Matilda set to take theatre world by storm

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The grand final of hit TV series Strictly ComeDancing will be broadcast live from Blackpoollandmark the Tower Ballroom. The programmewill also be shown for the first time in 3D –bringing the magic of the ballroom to life forfans watching from home.

TV comedian Keith Lemon switched on this year’sBlackpool Illuminations, cheered on by thousands ofvisitors.

The event also included a free concert featuring topnames such as Pixie Lott, Joe McElderry, Scouting ForGirls and Olly Murs, which kept the 15,000 strongaudience in the arena, along with the additional 25,000watching on a giant screen along the seafront and acrossthe town entertained.

Real Radio North West programme director and eventmusic organiser Dave Shearer said: “This year, if it wasreally possible, surpassed last year’s event. The crowdsflocked to Blackpool and the musical line up, for a freeconcert, was second to none.

“Our Switch On star, Keith Lemon was simplyoutstanding and the crowd went wild for him and gotcompletely in the spirit of the night. We are very proud ofwhat we, in partnership with the great team atvisitBlackpool, have achieved once again.”

THE winners of this year’s Lancashire andBlackpool Tourism Awards were announced at aglittering black-tie event hosted by Blackpool-born West End star Jodie Prenger.

The ceremony, attended by over 300representatives of Lancashire and Blackpool’s£3b visitor economy, saw more individuals,businesses, highly commended and jointwinners than ever before.

Award winners included: � Bed and Breakfast/Guest Accommodation ofthe Year – The Ashton, Lancaster.� Small Hotel of the Year – Best WesternMytton Fold Hotel, Langho.� Large Hotel of the Year – The Midland,Morecambe.� Small Visitor Attraction of the Year – Old HollyFarm, Garstang.� Large Visitor Attraction of the Year –Sandcastle Waterpark, Blackpool.� Business Tourism Award – Ribby Hall Village,Wrea Green. � Best Tourism Event of the Year – Blackpool

Illuminations.� Best Visitor Experience of the Year – WWTMartin Mere Wetland Centre, near Ormskirk.� Taste Lancashire Award – The Redwell Inn,Carnforth.� Visitor Information Provider Award – The VisitGarstang Centre.� Marketing Campaign of the Year – OpeningBrockholes, Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Preston.� Sustainable Tourism Award – Best WesternMytton Fold Hotel, Langho.� Access for All Award – Sandcastle Waterpark,Blackpool.

Blackpool’s Cabinet Member for Tourism andCulture Coun Cain said: “2011 has been afantastic year for the resort. Tourism is such anessential part of the resort’s economy and theawards are a great way of highlighting andrewarding the efforts that have been made overthe last year.”

Most of the winners will now progress to thenational awards, to compete against otherdestination winners for a VisitEngland Award forExcellence 2012.

Comedian Keith in bigBlackpool switch-on

Strictly ComeDancingprofessionalOla Jordan

£3b visitor economyis recognised at tourism awards

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ROYAL Mail has unveileda new set of stampswhich feature 26 of theUK’s most iconiclandmarks.

The stamps take afresh look at some ofthe UK’s best lovedsights including theAngel of the North,Blackpool Tower,Downing Street andEdinburgh Castle.

Royal Mail Stampsspokesman Philip Parker

said: “Our A to Z stampsshowcase some of thenation’s most famousfeatures, celebratingareas across the UK thatare enjoyed by millionsof people.

“Not only are theseplaces much lovedlandmarks, they alsoreflect the variety ofstructures and sightswhich can be foundacross the UK.”

Stamps featureiconic landmarks

SUPERBREAK has launchedpackages for the eagerly anticipatedMaking of Harry Potter tour at theWarner Bros studios in Leavesden,Hertfordshire.

The studio tour will take placewhere the films were in productionfor more than a decade and guestswill visit the original sets, seeingcostumes, animatronics, specialeffects and props used in all eightof the films.

Spread over 150,000 sq ft, the

tour takes in two sound stages andwill include some of the mostrecognisable sets including theGreat Hall, Dumbledore’s office, theGryffindor common room andHagrid’s hut.

Visitors will also have theopportunity to see animatronics in acreature effects workshop, includingBuckbeak the Hippogriff, Aragog,the giant spider, Fawkes thephoenix and the enormous Basiliskhead.

Harry Potter actress Emma Watson Picture: Helga Esteb/Shutterstock.com

Packages available forHarry Potter studio tour

Rugby heroesback WorldCup campaignBy Christina Eccles

VISITBRITAIN has launched acampaign to engage with fans in therun up to the Rugby World Cup inEngland in 2015.

Former England heroes LawrenceDallaglio, Will Greenwood andMartin Corry joined VisitBritain andVisitEngland at a gala event inAuckland, marking the beginning ofthe journey to the final atTwickenham and giving a sneakpreview of what fans can expect tosee at the event.

VisitBritain’s marketing directorLaurence Bresh said: “We haveshown the world that we have theability and infrastructure to hostsome of the greatest sportingtournaments and much of the worldagrees. With London 2012, theCommonwealth Games in Glasgowin 2014 and the Rugby World Cupin 2015, we have the perfectopportunity to highlight every regionacross the UK and build on the

legacy of what will be a goldenperiod for sports tourism in Britain.”

Chief executive of RWC2015 PaulVaughan added: “Hosting the 2015Rugby World Cup in England is agreat honour. It is the World’s thirdlargest sporting event and thatbrings a lot of responsibility toensure that we deliver the besttournament possible and a stronglegacy. New Zealand have set thebar high which means our job ismore challenging. Sport and largesporting events are always wellreceived in Britain and we expect tosee large numbers of overseasvisitors coming in to enjoy whatBritain has to offer as well as theRugby.”

Nearly 2m overseas visitors watchsport at venues across the UK eachyear, taking in the atmosphere atfamous rugby grounds such asMurrayfield in Edinburgh, Cardiff’sMillennium Stadium and atTwickenham, the home of Englishrugby.

Anniversary celebration for Great Days Out exhibitionTHE organisers of the Great Days Outexhibition are preparing to celebratethe show’s 30th anniversary nextyear.

Up to 2,000 group travelorganisers are expected to attendthe event, which brings togetherover 130 attractions, tourist boardsand transport providers. The eventwill take place on February 25 atEventCity, next to Manchester’sTrafford Centre and attractionsalready confirmed to exhibit includeCadbury World, Blackpool Pleasure

Beach and Mersey Ferries as well astourism boards Go Cumbria, VisitLiverpool and Visit Blackpool.

Managing director of VisitManchester Paul Simpson said:“Over the last 30 years Great DaysOut has established itself as theleading exhibition for group travelorganisers. Visit Manchester hasbeen privileged to lead the showsince 2004 and we are very proudof the platform the event providesto the tourism industry to showcasetheir product to the groups market.”

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By Kurt Janson

COMPARED to many other sectors of theeconomy, the UK tourism industry looks tobe in pretty reasonable shape.

The International Passenger Survey figuresfor the year to the end of August show thatoverseas visitor numbers are up by threeper cent while spending by visitors to theUK is up by four per cent over the sameperiod last year.

Domestic tourism figures are looking evenbetter with the number of trips up by fiveper cent to the end of July and spending bydomestic visitors tracking at 13 per centmore than the same period last year. Theseare quite significant figures considering thelarge scale of the tourism industry. If theincreases hold until the end of the year, wewould see an increase in tourismexpenditure of an astounding £3.4bn over2010 (£670m in inbound tourismexpenditure and £2.7bn in domestictourism expenditure). This is enough tocreate over 60,000 new jobs – althoughactual employment will be considerablylower as businesses will be waiting to makesure that this growth is sustainable beforecommitting to take on new staff.

Nevertheless, this level of growth bodeswell for the future prospects of the industryconsidering the squeeze on disposableincome that many households are currentlyexperiencing. It suggests that people arevery reluctant to let go of their holidays andare willing to make cuts to other areas ofexpenditure to ensure they are still able toafford to go away.

However, despite this good news, there isconsiderable reason to be concerned aboutthe prospects of the UK tourism industrynext year. The Olympics are starting toloom on the horizon and their impact ontourism flows remains anything but clear.

When the success of the London 2012Olympic bid was first announced, there wasthe overriding view that this would be asignificant boost for the tourism industry.However, there was little of substance tosupport this view other than a thought that“it’s the Olympics, therefore it must begood for tourism”. The results fromprevious Olympics were, at best,inconclusive. Apart from Barcelona, there islittle evidence that hosting the Games hasproduced a significant benefit – indeedthere is more compelling evidence that theimpact is detrimental. One of the mainproblems is that past host nations have

tended toexaggeratethe tourismbenefits inorder to winthe bid.Then, afterthe Games,these bodiesare wound-up so thereis no postgamesanalysis todeterminewhether thepredictedbenefits wereachieved.

With theLondon Olympics getting closer, the hardevidence of what the impact will be on theUK tourism industry is starting to appear.Tour operators are reporting that forwardbookings are down by up to 60 per centduring the 2012 summer period, whileattractions are starting to report thatforward bookings are down by 30-40 percent. Even Andrew Lloyd Webber hasstated that he is considering closing hisshows in London in the period surroundingthe Games because he is concerned aboutvisitor numbers.

The problem is that it there is aconsiderable gap between people’sexpectations regarding the size of theOlympics and the realities of the situation.For example, it is expected that there willbe, at most, around 4-500,000 overseasvisitors to London for the four weeks of theOlympic and Paralympic Games. This is apretty substantial number but it has to beremembered that in a typical August, thereare around 1.5m overseas visitors inLondon. Also, the 500,000 peopleattending the Olympics will be instead of,rather than additional to, normal visitors.London will easily cope with the Olympics.So what’s going to happen next year istherefore dependent on how soon plannersgrasp the reality of what the Olympicsmean to tourism. Stop issuing scare storiesthat tell people that transport in Londonwill be chaotic and that they should to workat home, that businesses should stock upon goods because supply chains will be atbreaking point or that mobile phonenetworks will not be able to cope with thepredicted levels of use.

UK tourism industry in ‘reasonable shape’

THE Tourism Society hasappointed a new chairman –Aviva Pearson.

With over 20 years’experience in the tourismindustry, she has been adestination manager for thelast eight, including sharedCEO for two DMOs in NorthYorkshire, executive head ofthe environment for Torbay,director of tourism for theEnglish Riviera and principalhead of tourism andmarketing for Anglesey.

Aviva has been a memberof the Tourism Society for sixyears and holds degrees intourism, marketing andhospitality.

Established in 1977, TheTourism Society is theleading forum forprofessionals working in allsectors of the tourismindustry.

Aviva explained: “We host

a programme of nationwidemeetings led by key industryfigures, a quarterly journalwith thought-provokingarticles about hot topics intourism, and a membershipwhose views help shapenational and regional policy.In addition, our memberscan access an extensivedatabase of industrycolleagues, and accessbetter businessopportunities, education andcareers support.

“The Tourism Society isdedicated to raisingprofessional standards inthis always changing, andgrowing, global industry.”

She also told DestinationUK she is ‘very excited’about taking on the role and is looking forward totackling the issues facingthe tourism industry in2012.

Kurt Janson

New chairman forTourism Society

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