The plunging pound will be good news for Kent tourism next year, experts predict.

As the euro comes close to parity with the pound, they expect the sector to defy the credit crunch and do well in 2009.

They believe the exchange rate will boost visitor numbers from Continental Europe and also persuade fewer British people to cross the Channel.

Sandra Matthews-Marsh, chief executive of VisitKent, the county’s tourism marketing agency, said: "The evidence is growing domestic tourism may well see a boom year in 2009. We believe visitors will be looking closer to home to spend their leisure time."

The falling pound would make it more expensive for people to go to mainland Europe and that Kent will benefit.

"We think Kent is very well placed to make the most of the strength of the euro.

"It’s not all doom and gloom and we think tourism will be one of the sectors that rides the recession quite well," she added.

East Kent hotel owner Gavin Oakley has forecast an invasion of visitors from the Eurozone. He said he has already noticed a sharp increase in inquiries and bookings from across the Channel for his two hotels.

He said: "Being on the doorstep of Europe, we find the hotels are a great barometer to judge the effects of sways in the balance between euro and sterling.

~ Listen: Mr Oakley speaks to kmfm >>>

"Kent offers great value for money in 2009 for both Euro-zone travellers and domestic tourists."