Media coverage keeps foreign visitors away

Foreign tourists are cancelling trips to the UK as images of burning carcasses and disinfectant baths create the impression of a country in crisis.

The English Tourism Council estimates UK tourism revenues are down £250m a week, a figure based on feedback from regional tourist boards and the fall-off in overseas visitors.

The biggest fear is that the foot-and-mouth outbreak could have a devastating impact on peak summer bookings.

Bob Cotton, chief executive of the British Hospitality Association, said: "Some of my members have been to the USA and the media coverage there is of burning carcasses and restaurants closing."

The number of visitors to England from France has fallen by 20-30% in the past few weeks.

The Spanish media, which blames Britain for exporting BSE to the rest of Europe, has been particularly hostile.

Chewton Glen hotel in Hampshire, a favourite with affluent US visitors, has seen forward bookings drop by 20% on last year, despite the fact there is no foot-and-mouth in the county.

According to the British Tourist Authority, there is widespread confusion among foreign visitors, with the USA and Italy linking foot-and-mouth with BSE.

Source: Caterer & Hotelkeeper magazine, 22-28 March 2001