TOURISM chiefs in the conurbation have joined forces with counterparts across the UK as part of a £5million national campaign aimed at encouraging visitors to give the hospitality sector a much-needed boost.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Tourism has teamed up with a number of destinations for the Escape the Everyday initiative.

Spearheaded by Visit Britain, the campaign aims to highlight attractions, places of accommodation and eateries with a focus on “discovery”, “freedom to explore” and “treating yourself”.

The Dorset conurbation team are working hard with partner organisations and agencies to bring visitors to the area in an effort to support hospitality and tourism businesses during the normally “quieter” autumn and winter months.

The national campaign is designed to reassure consumers and build their confidence to book staycations at cities, the countryside and coastal locations following a forecast that domestic tourism will have decreased by 49 per cent during 2020 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic – the industry is worth £91.6bn to the economy in any “normal” year.

David Bailey, chair of the BCP destination management board, said: “Escape the Everyday is a vital campaign to the nation’s economy and at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole we wish to do all we can to demonstrate these fantastic award-winning destinations are well worth a visit – now more than ever.

“While we saw an influx of visitors earlier this year after lockdown, we haven’t seen the spending at hotels, restaurants and attractions that we rely on from those visitors given the limitations involved with Covid-19.

“So we welcome this campaign with open arms in the hope we can encourage visitors – and residents alike – to get out of doors, discover our beautiful coastline, have the freedom to explore this stunning part of the world and treat themselves at our award-winning hotels and inviting restaurants.

“Come and find your hidden gem, that cycling route you’ve always wanted to see for yourself, take a well-earned break at one of our many spas and enjoy our hospitality.”