OVERSEAS visitors are still eager to holiday in Devon and have not been scared off by last year's foot and mouth crisis.

That is one of the findings of a major survey carried out for Devon Farms, the largest farm tourism co-operative in the county.

It shows that Americans and Germans represented 18% and 24% respectively of the total of overseas visitors staying on farms, a figure that had held up well.

But the type of visitors has altered significantly with 77% in what is described as the 'high affluence' category — up 17% on 2000.

Devon Farms, which has more than 100 bed and breakfast and self-catering business members, said it showed the co-operative's insistence on the highest standard of service and accommodation had paid dividends — not one holidaymaker answered no when asked if the farm had lived up to their expectations.

The research also showed that the main appeal for visitors was Devon's countryside.

Only 13% gave animals as a reason for staying on a farm whereas more than 50% gave the countryside and peace and quiet as their reasons.

When asked what they did on holiday, 76% said they went sightseeing on Dartmoor and Exmoor, 57% visited local historic sites, 53% went on countryside walks and 50% enjoyed coastal walks.

Visiting gardens was the choice of 43%, 24% went to the beach, 13% were interested in locally grown foods and a similar number looked for local arts and crafts.

Of limited interest were farm tours (4%) and theme parks (1%). Activities were not a popular draw — 2% tried golf, water sports and shooting and 4% had a go at cycling.

A Devon Farms spokesman said: 'This gives a clear definition of the overseas rural visitor.

'They, normally couples, come for the countryside, do not wish to be entertained, but appreciate the peace and quiet of quality accommodation on Devon's farms.'

The survey was funded through Leader 2 and match-funded by the South West Regional Development Agency.

Local members of Devon Farms include Knole Farm, Little Bidlake Barns and Week Farm at Bridestowe; Hele Farm, Rubbytown Farm and Colcharton Farm at Gulworthy; Beera Farm, Milton Abbot; The Cider House, Lifton, and Eggworthy Farm, Sampford Spiney.