Devon’s tourist attractions are open for business – and the Exeter Express & Echo has launched an initiative to help the county’s stricken tourism industry.

Tony Blair has stepped in to back the paper’s stance, endorsing its Open for Business campaign.

On a flying visit to meet Ministry of Agriculture officials in the county about foot and mouth disease, he said: “The situation in Devon is dreadful both for farming and for tourism.

“But I was impressed by the urgency in fighting this problem and the determination that Devon should recover quickly. It is important that people still come to Devon.

“My message to people is to visit the countryside but stay off farmland, and the Express & Echo’s campaign has my full support.”

Tourist chiefs calculate the region is losing up to £20m a week from lost tourism – people who are staying away for fear of deepening the foot and mouth crisis.

There is a question mark over jobs in the area and many businesses are worried for their future.

The Express & Echo is showcasing different locations each day and will compile a list of tourist attractions that are open for business.

Back to the campaigns index

Do you have a story for us?
Ring the HoldTheFrontPage newsdesk on
01332 291111 x6022, or e-mail us now