by Angela Cole

acole@thekmgroup.co.uk

More than 75 businesses came together to learn how they can promote the County Town as a place to visit and stay.
The launch of the Maidstone Tourism Association aims to bring together all those in the area who would are interested in tourism or would like to get involved in it and can contribute.
Moves to create the association have been going on for the past year, with help from Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Maidstone council and other key local players.
Led by chairman Alan Reading, the meeting heard from Laura Dickson, visitor economy business manager at Maidstone council, who told those gathered that tourism already brings in more than £188m to the local economy, and supports more than 5000 jobs.
In total, tourism is estimated to bring in more than £228m to the town’s economy, with the top spend by visitors being on eating out, which brings in£59m a year and shopping bringing in £52m.
For more information go to www.maidstonetourismassociation.co.uk