Visit Somerset has held its Annual General Meeting and spring conference at our Platinum member
Somerset County Cricket Club which was addressed by Mr Mohammed Saddiq, His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset.
An excerpt from Mr Saddiq's address:
"As the county looks to the future, Somerset’s position as a destination of choice continues to grow. More and more people are seeking authentic experiences, and that is where we excel. Visitors are increasingly drawn to our local products, our traditions, and the sheer diversity that Somerset has to offer. Be it sampling local foods, exploring hidden gems in our countryside, or immersing themselves in our music, festivals, and arts, there is something for everyone.
"The strength of Somerset’s tourism industry lies in the partnerships we build together: businesses, communities, and organisations like Visit Somerset, working hand in hand to create memorable experiences.
"As Lord-Lieutenant, I have witnessed countless examples of businesses that take pride in their local roots, businesses that understand the importance of sustainable growth and respect for the environment. This is where our future lies—in promoting and preserving what is most unique about Somerset while inviting the world to discover it for themselves.
"It is also essential to highlight the contribution of those behind the scenes—our volunteers, heritage custodians, and the small businesses that form the backbone of our visitor economy. You are the unsung heroes, and your work ensures that Somerset not only thrives today but will continue to be a destination of choice for generations to come.
"As we gather here today, I want to encourage all of us to continue to invest in our communities, to support local businesses, and to celebrate the innovation that defines our region. Somerset is a place where tradition meets modernity, where creativity and entrepreneurship come together in remarkable ways. It is a place where our natural beauty inspires, and where our people, with their deep sense of place and purpose, create the welcoming atmosphere that draws visitors back again and again.
Cllr Bill Revans, Leader of Somerset Council highlighted the importance of the visitor economy;
"I am hugely proud of what our visitor economy does to attract visitors to this area. We have to work in partnership with our town and parish councils, with all sectors as a team to be able to promote our county. If we all come together, Somerset can face its challenges. Tourism is a critical driver of our economy. We need to recognise that we need to continue to bring investment into this part of the country.
“We welcome and believe in the visitor economy and what it brings to Somerset and what it does to attract investment into the county. I look forward to us working together for many years to come.”
Robin Tjolle outlined the latest from VisitEngland, including the Local Visitor Economy Partnership programme, followed by Jon Chamberlain from Visit West, who summarised how LVEPs work in practise. Alex Spalding gave insight to the work and results of the South West Visitor Economy Hub.
CEO John Turner summarised the delivery of the UK SPF and an outline of this work can be seen
here
Giles Adams, Chair of Visit Somerset thanked the Visit Somerset team, directors, members and local authorities and referenced the current economic climate;
“Our businesses face testing times this April with increases in National Insurance, minimum wage and rates, additionally on the revenue side there are challenges with increased living costs. Collectively we need to remind authorities about empathy around business – it’s a force for good, not to be penalised - the predominant small businesses here in this agricultural county are finding it difficult to reap what they have sown.
The AGM and conference was sponsored by
Lloyd & Whyte Commercial Broking