The European Union of Tourist Officers (EUTO) arrives in Nottingham this week, for the start of the association’s annual convention.

This year’s event is being supported locally by Experience Nottinghamshire and Greater Nottingham Partnership and marks the first time EUTO has visited Nottingham, and the first time it has come to England since 1986 (when it came to Brighton). The programme, of what will be the 34th annual convention, is entitled ‘Attractions and Events as catalysts for regeneration and social change’ and will take place over four days, featuring study visits to venues and attractions across Nottinghamshire. The programme will then be continued in London. The event will be attended by 40 delegates from 10 European countries and 40 academics from across the world.

In Nottingham, the role of culture in shaping destination image will be examined as Nottingham transforms into a cultural capital with ambitious projects such as Wollaton Hall, CCAN & The New Art Exchange. Delegates will follow in the footsteps of the legendary Robin Hood, meet the Sheriff of Nottingham, visit Nottingham Castle and Sherwood Forest to see for themselves how 'Living Legends' can be used to stimulate the visitor economy.

Best practice in sustainable tourism management will be showcased at The Attenborough Nature Centre, an award winning eco-friendly visitor attraction and by the National Trust at Clumber Park. The EUTO study trip also includes a visit to the Nottingham Tourism Centre to learn about visitor information strategy, data collection and the destination management system.

The Travel & Tourism Institute at The University of Nottingham have also organised an academic convention as part of the EUTO event to encourage knowledge transfer.  

Vicky Martin – General Manager of Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park is a member of the EUTO board and was instrumental in securing the conventions visit to England.

Vicky said: "Hosting the EUTO convention is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Nottingham as a tourist destination and best practice in destination management to tourism professionals from across Europe. We’re working with industry to ensure a packed programme of informative and entertaining activities to illustrate the full extent of our cultural offer for visitors and look forward to hosting the event."

Councillor Dave Trimble, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Communities agrees: "The convention provides an international platform on which to share our vision for the future of Nottingham whilst celebrating our cultural heritage."

EUTO is an organisation that fosters networking between tourism professionals working in the public and private sectors either at a national, regional or local level. The annual convention brings together tourism professionals from across Europe to partake in topical seminars, practical workshops and the sharing of best practice.