Tourism was top of the agenda when the Culture Secretary visited the Isle of Wight yesterday (Thursday).
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Oliver Dowden MP was on the Isle of Wight with the MP Bob Seely. Mr Dowden visited Cowes to see how it will play an important part in the roll-out of 5G, when it will be streaming part of the racing during the world-famous Cowes Week Regatta in August.
During the day, Mr Dowden met with the MD at Visit Isle of Wight, Will Myles, to discuss the importance of the tourism sector to the Island, which is one of the largest economic drivers the local economy, valued at nearly half a billion pounds each year.
Will Myles said:
“Tourism is such an important industry for the Isle of Wight and the businesses operating here, so it was great to have the Secretary of State with us to see first-hand what we do and how accomplished the Island is within the Tourism and Hospitality sector.”
Visiting award winning eco-business Tapnell Farm in Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, the Culture Secretary was clearly impressed at the standard of tourism on the Island – even taking the Go-Karts for a test drive with Tapnell Farm Park owner Tom Turney during the visit.
Mr Dowden said:
“Introduced to Tapnell today, it’s a great example of a modern tourism attraction offering outdoor experiences and education all in an eco-friendly setting.
Article continues below this advertisement “The Isle of Wight is a UK destination with a great tourism offer, and from what I have seen today, it’s clearly a popular destination for people of all ages.”
Will Myles, Managing Director of Visit Isle of Wight, spent time discussing the issues that are currently facing the Tourism and Hospitality industry on the Island, as well as wider issues around the national review of DMO’s and tourism marketing funding.
The Secretary of State said:
“I fully understand the challenges the sector has faced over the last year and am highly supportive of the Tourism and Hospitality industry on the Island and further afield at present.
“I firmly believe and hope that with the strong and innovative tourism products that you have on the Island, and the passion shown by those involved, you will have a busy and profitable season.”
The Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely said he was looking forward to working with the Secretary of State to further develop the tourism offer here. He said:
“Tourism on the Isle of Wight has an economic impact of nearly half a billion pounds and is one of the major employers here, with visitors spending over £330 million each year.” Mr Seely explained.
“I will endeavor to work with Mr Dowden to support the Island Tourism and Hospitality industry now and in the future, aiding the great efforts already in place here on the Isle of Wight. Right now, the hospitality sector needs our support, not just on the Island, but nationwide. Together with Visit Isle of Wight, the Isle of Wight Council, Visit Britain and Mr Dowden we look to support and promote this sector as a great industry to start a successful career.”
Visit Isle of Wight is currently working to address the staffing shortages in the hospitality sector. MD Will Myles said it was vital that this and other issues were addressed:
“I ensured Mr Dowden understood the importance of the visitor economy on the Island, and the issues that it was facing in both the short and longer term including current staffing shortages. He was very well briefed and has even been here previously with his family as a tourist. It is visits like this that gets our message straight to the heart of government.”
Will Myles concluded:
“Thanks to everyone involved in this visit, Mr Dowden left with a very positive grasp of what we do here – sent off with a basket of Wight Marque Island produce and Garlic Farm items to enjoy. He was very appreciative.”
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With tourism comes hospitality, and our government drastically failed our hospitality sector
Total rubbish, unless you think keeping people safe isn’t a good idea.