Heart of Devon celebrates 300th member

Early signs of a tourism boost for the region in 2015 are already in evidence after the Exeter & the Heart or Devon Tourism Partnership celebrated welcoming its 300th member.

Bus company Stagecoach South West has joined the expanding partnership, as part of its commitment to supporting the local tourism industry.

Exeter & the Heart of Devon Tourism Partnership supports tourism businesses to promote Exeter, East, Mid and South Devon.

Victoria Hatfield of Exeter & the Heart of Devon, said: “We’re kick-starting 2015 by welcoming our 300th member, Stagecoach South West. It’s apt as they connect the whole of the area, helping people get about and – for tourists – helping them make the most of all that we have to offer, be it great accommodation, fantastic places to visit or fun activities.”

With a growth in activity-based holidays, short breaks and Rugby World Cup 2015 in Exeter later in the year, Michael Watson, Managing Director of Stagecoach South West, sees this as the perfect time to join forces with the partnership to promote the region.

He said: “We are thrilled to be joining Exeter & the Heart of Devon Tourism Partnership. They are a vital organisation, representing and promoting all the wonderful assets of our region – a vital economic role.

“Public transport is key to the overall offering for visitors and our network covers Exeter & the Heart of Devon area and beyond. We are looking forward to working with them and with members to continue to build on the growing reputation the area has for day visits, short breaks and holidays.”

Exeter & the Heart of Devon members includes hotels, bed and breakfasts, holiday parks, campsites, attractions, cafes, restaurants, shops, activity providers and many more businesses. Benefits include a presence on www.heartofdevon.com, latest tourism news, workshops, opportunities to get involved in media activity and the chance to share views and learn from fellow members. To find out about coming a member, contact June Hutchings on june.hutchings@exeter.gov.uk 01392 265230.

With services across the region, Stagecoach South West operates public transport in Exeter, East Devon, Torbay, South Devon, North Devon, Somerset and into Cornwall and Dorset.