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There are just a few days left to apply for free My Kent Big Weekend tickets to 123 of the county’s top visitor attractions and experiences.

From historic castles, steam trains and wildlife parks to football matches and art courses, there are more than 15,000 free tickets, two per Kent household, available to suit all tastes.

The 2012 My Kent Big Weekend, which is being held on March 17 and 18, marks the climax of the first English Tourism Week in the county.

And, for the first time, Kent is celebrating its cross Channel connections, a major draw for visitors to the county, with coach trips from France to attractions in Kent for the My Kent Big Weekend and from Kent to Nord Pas De Calais for their similar celebrations the following weekend – thanks to Eurolines and Eurotunnel.

Sandra Matthews-Marsh, chief executive of Visit Kent which organises the annual celebration of the county’s tourism, leisure and hospitality businesses, said: “This is our sixth major event for Kent people showcasing our industry and I am delighted that the variety of attractions opening their doors for free has increased every year.

“It is this variety – from our iconic heritage sites and gardens to our water sports, theatres, creative experiences and community initiatives – that makes our county such a popular destination for 56 million visitors every year.

“Because My Kent Big Weekend free tickets are allocated on a ballot system after the website closes, there is absolutely no advantage in being either the first or the last to apply for any destination or event.

“It means everyone has plenty of time to browse through all the attractions at their leisure and really focus on where they would like to explore or experience and talk it through with their friends and family."

People without internet access can apply for free My Kent Big Weekend tickets at visitor information centres across the county.

The website, www.mykentbigweekend.co.uk , will close for applications on midnight, Monday, February 13.

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012