Yorkshire tourism chief Gary Verity faces heart op

Mr Verity needed hospital treatment earlier this month but today played down his health problems as he received a stream of get well soon messages via Twitter from well-wishers across the region.

A high profile figure in the region, Mr Verity played the leading role in Yorkshire’s successful bid to host the opening stages of the Tour de France cycle race next year. But he was absent yesterday as Sports Minister Hugh Robertson met with the event’s organisers in Leeds.

Clare Morrow, chairwoman of Welcome to Yorkshire, said; “Gary has undergone a number of tests on his heart and will be going into hospital for a small operation in the next few weeks.

“Everyone at Welcome to Yorkshire wishes him well and a speedy recovery.”

Speaking from his home, Mr Verity added: “I can’t thank the medical staff highly enough for the care and kindness I’ve received. It’s good to find out what the problem is and look forward to being back to full health and back on my bike very soon!”

Writing on Twitter, he told followers: “TKS 4 all ur good wishes.

“Minor op needed 2 get ticker back on track...normal service will be resumed shortly ( I’m assured) !”

Mr Verity, who has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity through sponsored running events, has been chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire since 2009.