HRH The Prince of Wales has confirmed that he will once again be the Patron of British Tourism Week to be held from 10 to 18 March 2008.

Welcoming the announcement, Stephen Dowd, chairman of British Tourism Week, says: “His Royal Highness’ participation in British Tourism Week will help us raise even greater awareness of tourism experiences in this country. His interests in many of the quintessential elements that constitute Britain’s tourism brand make The Prince the perfect ambassador.”

British Tourism Week ’08 marks the start of a year in which Britain prepares for the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, taking the torch from Beijing ahead of the four-year Cultural Olympiad.

Inter-related events will raise national and international awareness of the size, value and importance of Britain’s £85 billion visitor economy, highlighting the contribution made by businesses large and small, public and commercial.

It galvanises the commitment of organisations and individuals to further improve and develop the industry. Once again VisitBritain’s British Travel Trade Fair (11-12 March 2008) will be the centrepiece for other national, regional and local events.

Tom Wright, VisitBritain chief executive, says: “The Prince of Wales’ support is further evidence of the critical importance of tourism to the UK economy and of our royal heritage to the tourism industry. His Royal Highness has consistently supported our industry over many years and has been an influential ambassador at home and abroad.”

2007’s inaugural British Tourism Week included over 50 events across the country, demonstrating tourism’s vital contribution to the UK’s economy.

Nearly 300 national politicians took part in events during the week and visited tourism businesses in their constituencies. Westminster MPs signed a pledge card backing British Tourism Week in Parliament and more than 60 MPs signed an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons recognising the value of tourism.

An exhibition of photography submitted by MPs and Welsh Assembly Members was held at the Britain and London Visitor Centre.

Stephen Dowd continues: “Tourism’s importance to the UK’s economy can often be overlooked and our industry suffers when we fail to recognise that every business contributes to a greater whole. Together, during British Tourism Week, we can change the perception that the different sectors – from transport and tour operators to accommodation providers, travel agencies and attractions – operate independently.”