A tourism campaign to encourage more people to explore the great outdoors has boosted visitor numbers across Kent and the South East and been voted a big hit by rural businesses.

Countryside 2011,  which took place from 28 May to 12 June, brought together hundreds of organisers big and small for a two-week super showcase of things to do and places to visit.

More than 900 country-based activities and events across nine counties were featured in an online Event Directory at www.countryside2011.org.uk [4] . Over 350 were free or included a special offer or discount to encourage visitors to try something new.

The two-week event, the second Countryside campaign to be organised by Tourism South East, has been praised by rural businesses for supporting the leisure and tourism industry, which they say has been particularly hard hit by the recession.

Dianne Raine, from Action Watersports in Lydd, Kent, said: “Thanks to Countryside 2011 we’ve seen a noticeable increase in the number of inquiries and bookings taken.”

Last year’s inaugural Countryside campaign attracted half a million people, 38,000 of which were new visitors to the great outdoors. Countryside 2011 is expected to be an even bigger success, with early feedback from organisers suggesting a significant increase in visitor numbers.

The online Event Directory showcased more than 900 events, surpassing last year’s figure of 840, with the number of visitors to the campaign’s dedicated website up 38% compared to 2010. Facebook fans have increased by 103% and Twitter followers by 83%.

Rachel Simpson from Tourism South East said: “Countryside 2011 is already exceeding expectations and the feedback we’re getting from organisers right across the region has been very positive.”

Countryside 2011 was supported by organisations such as the National Trust, RSPB, Cycle Touring Club, British Horse Society, Ramblers, Sustrans and the Wildlife Trusts.

Ordnance Survey once again sponsored the event.

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©