[K]eswick Tourism Association welcomed members to its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday (29th) afternoon along with the Mayor, Mrs Susan Leighton and Stephen Smith, General Manager at Carlisle Airport.
Anne Cornthwaite (Ashness Farm), who has recently taken over the role as Chair of the Keswick Tourism Association Board from Judy Sharpe (Amble House), welcomed everyone and began by offering thanks from the KTA Board to Judy for all that she has done during her three years as Chair. She went on to present the highlights of the past year; a new marketing campaign, increased traffic to the website, the successful introduction of an in-house events feed and a stronger social media presence to name but a few. Following the meeting Anne commented, “It is amazing to look back over the year and see just how much we (KTA) have achieved for the benefit of the town and our members.”
Despite an increase in online marketing, the Keswick Guide, produced by Keswick Tourism Association, continues to prove popular with visitors to the area and with KTA members who advertise in it. Mayor, Susan Leighton commented, “It is wonderful that Keswick Tourism Association continue to produce the Keswick Guide. It showcases Keswick so well and I am delighted to be here today to launch the 2018 Guide.”
At the election of Board members, Helen Ball (Stay in Borrowdale), Gary Lovatt (Laurel Bank) and Nigel Bromley (The Cartwheel) who had been co-opted onto the Board earlier in the year had their positions confirmed and Barry Hobbs (Go Ape, Whinlatter) was elected to join the Board. Vanessa Metcalfe, Tourism Manager said “All of the Board work very hard for KTA and its members, offering a wide range of skills and expertise. I would encourage any member who would like to become more involved to consider joining the Board.”
Stephen Smith, General Manager, Carlisle Airport ended the AGM with a fascinating presentation about the future of Carlisle Airport and the plans to reintroduce commercial flights by June of next year. Those present were excited to hear about the potential for bringing visitors to the area by air and Keswick Tourism Association plan to work with Carlisle Airport to maximise the benefit to its members.
Any business interested in finding out more about becoming a member of Keswick Tourism Association should contact Vanessa Metcalfe, Tourism Manager ([email protected]).
