The 2008 Sunrise Coast Spring Tourism Forum takes place today, 11 March at the Fisher Theatre, Bungay. The theme of this year’s event will be the importance of using local produce and the impact it can have on tourism and the sustainability of the industry.

The Spring Forum is a free event and is open to all businesses and organisations involved with tourism. It will be held today at The Fisher Theatre, 10 Board Street, Bungay, between 10.30am and 2.00pm. The event is part of British Tourism week, which runs from 10-18 March 2008.

This annual event is open to members of the industry and takes place in advance of the summer season, so that businesses and organisations can get together and discuss issues, share ideas and enjoy a presentation on a pertinent topic.

Those attending will also have the opportunity to put questions to a panel made up of Waveney District Council Members and officers, as well as Hugh Crossley of the Somerleyton Estate, the new chairman of the Waveney Tourism Forum.

Councillor Wendy Mawer, Portfolio Holder for Economic Regeneration, with special responsibility for Tourism said: “Throughout Suffolk and the Sunrise Coast, there are a large number of quality local producers offering a wide range of products such as pork, fish, vegetables, ale and wine, to name but a few. These services can enhance tourism in a sustainable way, by providing a unique, local offering for visitors and residents alike. The Forum will provide the ideal platform to promote this idea to the local industry.”

“Event hosts, the Fisher Theatre in Bungay, will make a presentation on their historic building and its recent restoration. There will also be a light buffet lunch showcasing some exciting produce, which is of course locally sourced!”