BOURNEMOUTH West MP Conor Burns has praised the contribution made by language schools to the town's economy.

Mr Burns was speaking on a visit to EF Education First, a private year-round international language school in Poole Road, where he chatted with staff and students.

He said: "“Language schools are the second largest sector in Bournemouth’s economy and EF, a leader in the field of language learning, is a significant contributor to this sector and our local economy.

"EF Bournemouth supports around 75 jobs, while students contribute further to the local economy by spending on local services such as restaurants and entertainment and provide a financial boost to many families in Bournemouth who welcome an EF student to stay in their home.

"The English language and schools like EF are a real asset to Bournemouth and the UK. EF’s students are clearly enjoying their time in Bournemouth and because of this they are more likely to return to the UK in future as visitors and to do business."

School director Tarek Benamor said: "EF is proud to have been welcoming international students to learn English in Bournemouth for over 50 years and of the contribution we make to the local economy, supporting employment, business and tourism not just in the summer months, but all year round."