Brush up on local knowledge, businesses told

Jan 26 2009 by Karen Dent, The Journal

BUSINESSES working with tourists in the area around Hadrian’s Wall are being urged to brush up on their local knowledge to help bring more money into the local economy.

Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd has launched a series of events covering the local countryside, area and history aimed at people running businesses such as hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation.

The initiative has been organised by Hadrian’s Wall Heritage, which is responsible for marketing the World Heritage Site surrounding the Roman Wall.

Spokeswoman Julie Sloan said: “The more they know about the area, the more they will be able to enhance the experience for their visitors. We believe this will encourage many tourists to stay longer and see more of what the area has to offer.”

The scheme includes free seminars and site visits. The dates are:

* Introduction to Geology – Walltown Craggs, Tuesday, February 17 (or February 24 in the case of extreme weather conditions) and Thursday, February 19 (or 26th in the case of extreme weather conditions) with guest speaker Richard Holmes.

* Introduction to History on the Wall – Birdoswald and surrounding area Monday, March 23, and Monday, March 30, with guest speaker Paul Bidwell. The courses run from 10am-3pm and include a free lunch.

Anyone who wants to attend should contact Lucy Weeks on (01434) 611780 or email lucy.weeks@hadrianswallheritage.co.uk