Businesses to go green with tourism masterclass

Cheshire hospitality and tourism businesses are being offered a unique opportunity to discover how working with nature can boost their business prospects.

Visit Chester & Cheshire, the tourism management organisation in conjunction with sustainable business experts Natural Economy Northwest, are hosting a free, one-off ‘Natural Tourism’ masterclass next month in Chester.

One of the speakers will be Sue Stevenson from Harrop Fold Farm in Macclesfield, an award-winning business which has crated one of the best B&Bs in the country, based on the natural environment.

The event takes place at the Crabwall Manor Hotel, Chester on Thursday, 5th November 2009 at 10.00am, finishing with a complimentary lunch and valuable networking.

“With real awareness, proper planning and effective management, businesses can make the most of the considerable business potential that exists within our natural environment,” said Katie Read, Natural Economy Northwest. “That’s what makes this free masterclass such a valuable opportunity.”

Other speakers include Hamish Ferguson of DeVere Carden Park Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa where ‘green’ initiatives have delivered positive effect on the bottom line.  The masterclass leader, Katie Read, will explain the opportunities for natural tourism initiatives in the Northwest and how best to realise them.

Emma Clarke, Visit Chester & Cheshire added: “All the speakers have inspiring and valuable stories to tell which will provide a valuable insight into how our natural assets can create and underpin a successful business and to do so in a sustainable way.”

Natural Economy, which has been supporting number of local visitor economy business for the last twelve months is a partnership led by Natural England, the Northwest Regional Development Agency and the SITA Trust.