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The London Olympics in 2012 will lure more people to Britain and each visit presents an opportunity for Yorkshire. Tourism here is already a multi-billion pound industry and can help drag the region out of an economic slump.

Few parts of the country can rival the mix provided by the beauty of the Dales and North York Moors, the fresh air and attractions of the coastline, the blend of historic sites and the culture and nightlife on offer in our towns and cities.

Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, is right to warn that the region will not reach its full potential until the digital divide is bridged and rural and small businesses can create websites or online booking systems. These firms must be given improved access to broadband to ensure Yorkshire has every chance of seizing the opportunities on offer in the 21st century. Yorkshire may be the best but it can still get better.