Lib Dem Council Group Leader Welcomes Tourist Guide

12.00.00am GMT Wed 8th Jan 2003

Cllr Serge Lourie, Leader of the Liberal Democrat opposition on Richmond Council has welcomed the publication of the new Richmond upon Thames Visitor & Accommodation Guide for 2003.

This year's Guide is especially important in the light of recent research by the English Tourism Council demonstrating that people visiting friends and relatives have an increasingly significant and positive impact on the local economy.

"I am delighted that the new administration recognises the importance of tourism both culturally and economically."

"There were 4.5 million visitors to the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames in 2001, generating £211.7 million for the local economy."

"Without these visitors, many facilities residents take for granted such as the theatres and restaurants would not be viable."

Published by the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames Tourism Section, the Guide covers all areas in the borough and includes information on what to do and see, where to go, where to eat and where to stay.

This year's edition includes extended events listings for the year, plus new sections on language schools and Church Street in Twickenham. There are also plenty of useful contact phone numbers, travel information and pictures of attractions in the borough.

Research for the English Tourism Council shows that people now visit friends and relatives over seven times a year – yet almost a third do not actually stay with the friends and relatives they have gone to visit.

Many prefer a local hotel or B&B instead. Spending by visitors is also on the up - the average amount spent per visit is £108. As a result, all local hotels, restaurants and attractions stand to gain.

Note for editors Copies of the new Guide are available from the Richmond Information Centre, the Civic Centre in Twickenham and libraries throughout the borough. For all tourist information enquiries, contact the Richmond Information Centre on 020 8940 9125 or email: information.services@richmond.gov.uk