Economy benefits as more visitors head to the region

Trips to Yorkshire increased by 14 per cent in the first three months of 2011 compared with the same period last year.

Spending by visitors rose by 25 per cent – an increase five times greater than the national average – according to the Great Britain Travel Survey, published today.

The length of time tourists stayed in the region grew by 15 per cent, bucking a nationwide trend which showed a two per cent decline.

Tourism agency Welcome to Yorkshire, which had its budget slashed by £3.4m this year because of cuts in Government spending, has conducted its own survey showing increased confidence among the region’s businesses.

Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Gary Verity said: “Yorkshire really is the place to be this summer. Early indications are incredibly positive and point towards this year’s summer season being as positive as the last.

“This is great news for the fabulous accommodation providers, tourist attractions, restaurants, pubs and teashops we have across the county.”