Stay at home! Enjoy delights on doorstep in Staffordshire
Why go away when a wealth of visitor attractions are on the doorstep? That is the message from tourism officials in Staffordshire who are urging people to take a 'staycation' this Easter.
County's tourism leader, Mark Winnington, believes the county has a thriving tourism economy with a wealth of great attractions, including many leading national sites, drawing in visitors from across the UK and beyond.
The council's cabinet member for the economy Mark Winnington said that the county was a fantastic place to explore with something for everyone, with many more hidden attractions still waiting to be discovered.
Mr Winnington said: "Staffordshire is increasingly becoming a leading tourist destination; bringing in £1.2 billion annually to our economy and supporting over 29,700 jobs. We have a rich tapestry of attractions, many of which are nationally acclaimed, in addition to some that are perhaps less well-known but which play a vital part in our visitor economy.
"Staffordshire is a great place for the outdoors, from the Peak District National Park in the north to Cannock Chase in the south and the National Forest in the east, not to mention our canal and cycle network.
"We are home to the National Memorial Arboretum, National Brewery Centre and national football centre at St George's Park in Burton in addition to a wealth of smaller museums and attractions.
Last year alone over 24 million people, from home and abroad, enjoyed day or overnight trips to Staffordshire.
This helped generate over £1.2 billion in direct spend on accommodation, entertainment, travel, shopping and food and drink. The tourism sector supports over 29,700 jobs in the county and generates an additional £500 million of associated spend in the sector.
Since 2008, the overall sector spend has grown by 35%, overnight stays by 36%, day trips by 31%, and employment by 27%.
He added: "There are always enjoyable family days out to be had at the Shugborough Estate, Weston Park and the Trentham Estate and historic buildings to visit like Tamworth Castle and Lichfield Cathedral.
"And of course we have two of the country's leading theme parks, Alton Towers Resort in the north of the county and Drayton Manor Park in Tamworth.
"I'd urge Staffordshire people to consider a 'staycation' this Easter as one of their holiday options – with no travel hassles, passport problems or accommodation costs and the opportunity to discover more and enjoy their own county."
People can find out more about what Staffordshire has to offer this Easter at www.enjoystaffordshire.com/easter
