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Whatever the weather there's always a warm welcome waiting in Winchester!

Tourism chiefs report that, despite the recent record rainfall, tourism is booming in Winchester: the recent soggy weather seems to have led to an increase in the number of trips made to Winchester, benefiting the visitor economy.

Visitor numbers to Winchester's Tourist Information Centre for May, June and July have increased by over a thousand on the equivalent period last year: a trend reflected at other indoor attractions around the city.

Alison Woods, Winchester City Council's Tourist Information Centre Manager, said,

"When the weather is warm and sunny as it is this week, visitors head for the beach. But when it is wet heritage cites such as Winchester benefit as they have so much to offer that is not weather-dependant.

"Visitors can chose from numerous museums or enjoy a steaming hot chocolate in one of our cafés whilst watching the world splash past. The city also offers a unique shopping experience with many independent stores and boutiques as well as art galleries. If you are stuck for ideas about what to with the kids over the summer, just pop into our award-winning tourist information centre. You will receive some welcome ideas and a warm welcome, whatever the weather."

Eloise Appleby Head of Cultural Services added,

"Day visitors contribute £122 million each year to the local economy, and this figure has been steadily increasing over time. Whilst we are very sympathetic to those parts of the country who have suffered in the recent floods and are all happy to see the sun again, we are happy that at least some businesses seem to have benefited from the poor weather."

The tourist information centre is open from 9.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday, 11am to 4pm on Sundays and 10am to 4pm on Bank holiday Mondays and can be contacted on: 01962 840 500 or e-mail: tourism@winchester.gov.uk or for further ideas on what to do during the holiday season visit our website at: www.visitwinchester.co.uk

Notes to Editor

For further information on Winchester Tourist Information Centre contact: Alison Woods, Tourist Information Centre Manager, Winchester City Council, tel: 01962 848 347 or email awoods@winchester.gov.uk