A STRATEGY to drive more coach visitors to Tavistock is being rolled out by the town's Business Improvement District (BID) in partnership with Tavistock Town Council.

The first phase is now complete with a new information pack for coach drivers aimed at increasing visits, which details facts about the town and its history, attractions, facilities and where to drop off passengers.

The packs are currently distributed 26 weeks of the year, and with the support of BID that will increase to 46 weeks

Lisa Wadling, Tavistock BID manager, said: 'This is the first step to securing a significant increase in the number of coaches that come to Tavistock. The town council already has a great system in place and we're delighted that they welcomed the partnership with BID to work on growing the number of coaches we get and, most importantly, the length of time they spend in the town. By working together we can definitely achieve much more.

'We are also producing a media pack for tour operators to use in their brochures, to help ensure Tavistock features in their itineraries. And we are working with companies running day trips, putting together day and half-day itineraries to increase the time spent in the town.

'The last phase will be to encourage coach companies from abroad into Tavistock.'

Duane Carruthers, pannier market duty manager, said: 'The partnership with BID has enabled us to up the ante with the aim of increasing trade in the town and we're looking forward to welcoming more visitors.'