Paralympic cycling road races were held at Brands Hatch

by Jo Earle

Kent's economy could be boosted by more than £300million pounds over the next three years thanks to the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Visit Kent says opportunities for tourism and businesses in the county are only just beginning.

The tourist organisation says the predicted boost is mainly due to the increased profile of the country worldwide and the "feel good factor" the Games brought.

Ruth Woods, head of research at Visit Kent, said: "We've shown we can host the greatest show on earth.

"The Paralympics was an amazing opportunity to really showcase the Kent countryside and Brands Hatch as an international sporting venue.

"I'm sure as a result they will attract more major events and will have a positive impact on all the tourism businesses in the area.

"Everyone's become enthusiastic about cycling again. We have businesses like the Cyclopark in Gravesend and Bedgebury who will really benefit from the games.

"We can't forget the 150 greeters out and about welcoming people into the county.

"We're hoping that will encourage people to come back here and explore more."

She added: "We’re certainly hoping to see an uplift in tourism next year.

"Visit Britain has just launched their international campaign, which will focus predominantly on the Chinese and Asian markets. So again we will hope to see a boost immediately."