Last updated at 19:34, Thursday, 12 July 2012

Tourism in West Cumbria is fast becoming a major part of the local economy, according to industry chiefs.

SEA CHANGE: Chris Hines OBE, founder member of Surfers Against Sewage

The news came as sector leaders gathered at West Cumbria Tourism’s annual meeting yesterday, at Lakes College, Lillyhall.

Eric Robson, chairman of the organisation, said the industry, worth £540million, employed almost 15,000 people and was set to grow as people choose “staycations” over holidays abroad.

He said: “Our message about West Cumbria is getting out there to the wider audience.

“Tourism is a natural partner for the Western Lake District even though the area is rooted in engineering and industry.

“On our doorstep is the best tourist destination in the UK after London.”

He said tourism had a vital role to play in making the district’s economy a vibrant and mixed one.

But he warned that organisations, industry bodies and the private sector must improve working together and joining up initiatives for the benefit of West Cumbria.

Around 70 delegates attended the meeting and heard from speakers including the West Cumbria Tourism team Katie Read and Lucy Hardy, Jill Graham, of Britain’s Energy Coast, and Chris Hines OBE, who has led projects to raise awareness of coastal development and regeneration.

Ms Read added: “It is our goal to develop a sense of place and strong brand for West Cumbria and get people coming back to us.”

First published at 19:25, Thursday, 12 July 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk