FOR many people the local pub is the first port of call when visiting a new town.

Relaxed and ready to start a holiday, many feel a cool beer or a traditional pub meal are the perfect start to a break.

But could pubs go further than that and eventually become the main attraction?

New tourism organisation VisitEngland thinks so and is launching a campaign to ensure pubs and tourism become inseparable.

After all, the old-fashioned pub is one of the most recognised images of England so why not use it to promote the country all over the world?

In return, VisitEngland hopes landlords and bar staff will promote other tourist attractions in the area.

At the Goat and Tricycle in Bournemouth, manager Mick Mullin believes he is already doing his bit to attract people to the resort.

Voted the best real ale pub in Britain last year, the West Hill Road establishment is advertised on the internet and attracts customers from all over the country.

“Around two-thirds of our customers are visitors to the area and we know how important it is that we get involved in tourism” he said.

“We have linked up with hotels and conference centres so their guests know we are here and we also advertise on tourist information sites.”

VisitEngland recently gave the Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award to the great English pub. It was collected on behalf of all publicans by actor Neil Morrissey, now owner of a pub in Yorkshire.

Liam Hacker, landlord of the Oddfellows Arms on Wimborne’s Church Street, welcomed moves to link pubs and tourism but said it is already happening in many places.

“We’ve been doing it for some years, we’re almost like a middle man” he said. “Pubs have always been a source of information. People who use the pub live and work in the area so visitors know they are a good source of information.”

Mr Hacker said many visitors ask advice and about where to go and what to do in Wimborne. He added: “We also have a German contingent who come over with the Twinning Association and they ask for information like bus times.”

At the Branksome pub in Bournemouth’s Triangle, boss Barry Hancock has joined forces with other gay pubs and clubs in the area to attract clientele from all over the country.

“We are about to launch our Gay Bar Cruise, which will be advertised on the internet and will take customers to all the gay bars in the area,” he said.

VisitEngland spokeswoman Amanda Smyth said: “Pubs and inns provide more than food and drink – they are a key part of England’s brand, our history and way of life.”