British Tourism Week, a new scheme by VisitBritain to raise national awareness of the size, value and importance of Britain’s visitor economy will be held between 12-18 March.

His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales has been confirmed as Patron for this series of inter-related events organised by VisitBritain and promoted through the new website www.britishtourismweek.com

British Tourism Week will highlight the contribution made by businesses from every part of the UK's tourism industry, large and small, public and commercial, in maximising future opportunities such as the Olympic Games.

Three scheduled national events will form the centrepiece of British Tourism Week:

• VisitBritain's British Travel Trade Fair (13-14 March 2007)

• UKinbound's 30th Anniversary Convention (14-15 March 2007) • Tourism Alliance Annual Event (12 March 2007).

Scottish Tourism Week, organised by the Scottish Tourism Forum, also takes place at the same time.

Stephen Dowd, chair of the British Tourism Week executive council and chief executive of inbound tourism trade body UKinbound, said: "Royal recognition of the importance of British Tourism Week will help us redefine both the image and the reality of British tourism in the important years ahead.”

He added, “His Royal Highness' interests in heritage and in many of the quintessential elements that constitute Britain's tourism brand, make him a perfect ambassador for our industry."

For further information please visit www.britishtourismweek.com