The Somerset and Exmoor Local Visitor Economy Partnership is the recognised strategic partnership for the visitor economy across Somerset and Exmoor, accredited by Visit England. It brings together regional strengths, national standards and coordinated delivery to provide a single, professional point of leadership for the visitor economy, representing tourism and hospitality across the area.

After a focused period of set up, collaborative planning and early delivery, the partnership is now entering its next phase of development.

The LVEP is pleased to announce two key appointments.

• Merryn Kidd, Chief Executive of The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens, will take the role of Chair for the Somerset and Exmoor LVEP. Merryn said “I am delighted to take on this role at such an important moment for Somerset and Exmoor. The LVEP gives us a clear and unified way to champion our visitor economy, support our businesses and strengthen the profile of our extraordinary area. I look forward to working closely with all partners to build on the strong foundations already in place.”

• William Sitwell, BBC MasterChef judge, journalist, food critic and local business owner, will take the role of Ambassador. William said “Somerset and Exmoor have an exceptional story to tell. Our landscapes, our food culture and the character of our local businesses make this a place with real depth and personality. I am very pleased to support the LVEP and to help share that story more widely, both here at home and nationally.”

These appointments build on the work already underway across the LVEP. Somerset Council is the accountable body and Emma Thomasson is the Strategic Lead connecting into Visit England and working with the LVEP board from Visit Somerset, Visit Exmoor, Exmoor National Park Authority and Somerset Council.

All partners are working closely together to ensure a joined up, resilient and business focused approach that reflects the scale and importance of the visitor economy across Somerset and Exmoor and to champion and be a voice for the visitor economy.

The LVEP will make further announcements in the coming months as work progresses on shared priorities and continued coordination across the sector.

SomersetExmoorLVEP@visit-exmoor.co.uk
https://www.visit-exmoor.co.uk/somerset-and-exmoor-lvep