Average millennium
The millennium has not proved a roaring success for the UK tourism sector, according to members of the Tourism Society, who include managers of attractions and hoteliers. Almost half described business as average, and blame the strong pound, the weak euro and the poor weather. Many were also critical of the Dome's policy to issue millions of free and discounted tickets.
Attraction action
The English Tourism Council this week launched Action for Attractions, the first national strategy for visitor attractions in England. The framework is nearly 50 recommendations aimed at achieving a sustainable and viable future for the industry. Action for Attractions is available for £10 (+£3.50 p&p) by calling 0870 6067204 (9am-5pm) or e-mail: fulfilment@englishtourism.org.uk
Winter theme
Drayton Manor Park, the UK's fourth most visited theme park, will open this winter for the first time in its 50-year history. The Winter Wonderland Festival starts on November 25 and will run every weekend until December 24 and daily from December 16-24. For details, call 01827 252400, or visit www.draytonmanor.co.uk
Free Heathrow ride
Anyone checking in skis, snowboards or golf clubs at Paddington on the Heathrow Express from now until February 1 will receive a free single journey from Paddington to Heathrow. Check-in facilities are offered by 17 airlines to 191 international destinations at Paddington, allowing travellers to drop off their luggage and pick up their boarding cards before making the 15-minute rail journey to Heathrow.
Extreme aid
International aid agency Children's Aid Direct has launched a series of multi-activity expeditions in extreme environments such as the Arctic, the desert, the jungle and high altitude. Volunteers pay their expedition costs - the nine-day Arctic trek costs £2,140, for example - and pledge to raise a minimum £1,500 for the charity, which helps rebuild the lives of children suffering from conflict poverty and disaster. For more details, call 0118 9533238 or visit www.challengeseries.co.uk
Disaster fund
A fund has been set up to aid in the recovery operation following the tunnel fire in Kitzsteinhorn, Austria, last weekend in which 155 skiers and snowboarders died. For those wishing to donate to the Victims of Kitzsteinhorn Fund, the account is being held by the Raiffeisen Bank in Kaprun, account number 1012111, sort code 35112.
