TOURISM in West Devon is on the up according to a survey by Devon County Council and looks set to improve now summer holidays are underway.

Results from a Devon County Council survey show the industry is going from strength to strength and a campaign launched earlier this year is already attracting visitors to the area.

The number of nights spent by tourists in West Devon between November 2001 and October 2002 went up to 1,106,700 ? an increase of 17.6% on the previous year?s figures.

Following the foot and mouth crisis in 2001 and the resulting drop in tourism figures, the massive increase is no surprise, but figures are still an improvement on those of the more comparable 1999-2000 season and have increased by 5.8%.

County cllr Derrick Spear said: ?The figures show a spring back from the appalling effects of foot and mouth, so it?s good that tourism is coming back to the county.

?The council is committed to rural regeneration because of these

effects and we are pleased things are coming good.?

The survey is carried out throughout the year with accommodation outlets in the county, from large hotels to holiday cottages and bed and breakfasts, sending their tourist night figures to the council for collation.

The county as a whole saw figures increase by 5.7%.

The Discover Devon campaign, launched in April and designed to raise awareness of the county as a tourist destination, uses the concept of discovery and there always being something new to discover in

Devon.

Areas, such as moorland, coast, countryside and heritage, and themes, including walking, cycling and food and drink, are featured on a website and in brochures to generate new visitors and encourage previous visitors to return.

Cllr Spear, council executive member for economy and regeneration, said: ?We?re very lucky in Devon to have such a great product.

?The simple fact is Devon is a brilliant place to visit whether it is for a short break or a longer holiday.

For information about Discover Devon visit http://www.discoverdevon.com">www.discoverdevon.com or to request brochures call the Devon holiday line on 0870 6085531.