NORTH Wiltshire is a stunning part of the world and more people should be encouraged to visit.
This is certainly the view taken by those in the region who have signed up to the Cut Tourism VAT campaign, which includes the MP for North Wiltshire, James Gray.

The statistics speak for themselves when comparing the UK to other European countries. While our tourism VAT stands at a dizzying 20 per cent on hotel accommodation for example, Germany’s is seven per cent and Portugal’s is six.

It means we’re on the back foot before we even start trying to compete with the more sun-kissed European countries.

We should be encouraging people to visit from abroad, not deterring them with high costs. The visitors bring an injection of cash to the region that will help it develop beyond measure.

There is no doubt that Wiltshire can grow its tourism sector in the right conditions. It has so much to offer, from the stunning, rolling fields to the picturesque market towns like Malmesbury. It has history in every corner and tradition down every road, that people would travel great distance to experience.

North Wiltshire could be a must-visit spot for Europeans looking to visit the quintessentially British countryside.

Bringing us more in line with our European neighbours can only be a good thing for the UK and for the region.