Harriett Baldwin MP has praised the work of tourism teams in the area for promoting attractions across the county.

The West Worcestershire MP celebrated the efforts of the tourism teams, speaking of the substantial economic benefits, including boosting jobs and bringing valuable income into the area.

Mrs Baldwin's praise came during a visit to Witley Court, which was a popular English Heritage property until a fire wrecked the building in 1937, as part of English Tourism Week.

 

 

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The week aims to promote nearby attractions throughout the summer and drive visitor numbers.

Despite the blaze's effects, the site is considered one of England's greatest country homes, now boasting plenty of visitors due to its extensive gardens and working fountain.

Mrs Baldwin said: "Witley Court is one of the jewels in our local tourist offering and it is always good to visit and catch up with the team promoting the attraction to visitors from near and far.

“With the Winter hopefully behind us, it is good to get out and get some fresh air and exercise, and it is clear from their briefing to me that destinations like Witley Court are getting back to pre-pandemic visitor numbers.

“We are blessed to have such beautiful attractions on our doorstep, whether it is formal gardens like Witley Court or the wild terrains of the Malvern and Bredon Hills and I am delighted to help do my bit to promote local tourism.”

Matt Bulford, English Heritage head of historic properties for the West Midlands, said: "We were delighted to welcome Dame Harriett back to Witley Court and to update her on all that we’ve been doing to both care for the remains of one of England’s greatest country houses with its beautiful gardens and wild woodlands and enhance the experience for visitors from near and far.

“Our charity is working hard to provide more opportunities for local people to connect with the unique heritage at the heart of their community here at Witley Court, including through volunteering opportunities and by supporting free school visits – with over 9,000 school visitors welcomed at the site since English Heritage became a charity in 2015.”