THERE has been a surge in membership of Tamar Valley Tourism Association during the year, members were told at the eleventh annual meeting.

Chairman John Marshall stressed how the surge in membership during 2012, from 184 to 240, meant the annual fee of £45 could be held for 2013, representing good value for the wide range of benefits.

During 2012, members enjoyed monthly networking and familiarisation events at different members' venues such as Cotehele, Buckland Abbey, and The Garden House. With knowledgeable speakers, guided tours and cream tea with scones, these proved popular, and will continue next year.

Group lunches were enjoyed at a variety of member restaurants such as the Horn of Plenty, Hotel Endsleigh, The Glassblowing House, and The View. There is a full calendar of events planned for 2013.

Treasurer Alan Wylam said that finances were in good shape, thanks to the healthy increase in the numbers of members, plus welcome contributions from local bodies.

Anthony Manning, in charge of TAVATA's website, explained how to monitor traffic statistics and use on-line booking to control marketing spend.

Caroline Hammond talked about the new TAVATA ambassador programme, and how she and the other ambassadors were helping to spread the good word, at the same time as distributing the TAVATA leaflets on what to do and see, and where to go and eat, plus the new map and guide of the area.

After a buffet lunch, members enjoyed a lively talk by Sylvia Lowe from the Cornish Mining Heritage, explaining how World Heritage Status designation has raised the profile for local tourism.

The consensus opinion was that local tourism is bearing up well, and that carefully targeted marketing and promotion was producing good results, with visitors praising the peace, beauty and tranquillity of the area.

For further information, see the website at http://www.tavata.co.uk">www.tavata.co.uk