New tourism network created for East Devon

The new East Devon tourism network is aimed at promoting towns like Sidmouth

A tourism network will "drive visitors" to East Devon, leaders have said.

The free-to-join network is for businesses and will feature an online listing of tourism events, East Devon District Council said.

The scheme, which has an emphasis on net-zero goals, is aimed at helping the area become "the leading year-round tourism destination in Devon".

Councillor Nick Hookway said businesses could join to share ideas and "learn from best practice".

He added: "By supporting the business community improve its offer, it will eventually drive more return visitors and attract new ones."

A contract to run the network, funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund, has been awarded to East Devon Excellence, following a "competitive tendering process".

Membership is free to businesses which are mostly tourism-focused, promote visitors to East Devon and provide a "visitor experience".

Their values should also include "promoting quality", working towards net zero and "improved accessibility and collaboration".

The first network event will take place in March.