A study by tourism bosses has shown nearly four million visitors came to Thanet for their holidays last year.

Visit Kent’s independent research says visitors gave the economy a boost with day-trippers spending £293 million, up 19% from 2013’s figure of £237.3 million.

The total number of jobs supported by tourism also rose more than 20% to 7,312.

Among the most popular places in the district are Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate with the award-winning beaches and cultural hotspots attracting the crowds.

Business owners have reacted to the announcement saying it is a positive step for the area.

Louise Oldfield, who runs the Reading Rooms in Hawley Square, Margate, said: “I believe we have been on an upward trajectory for many years with the investment into the area.

“It is a recognisable place with the Turner Contemporary, Dreamland and the Old Town with places to eat, shop and visit including the beaches.

“When people stay with us we encourage them to leave Margate and explore the rest of what Thanet has to offer.”

Ms Oldfield added that she will be concerned to see the impact Brexit has on the industry.

She added: “We are concerned it might cost more to run our business when inflation goes up.

“A lot of things are paid for by the EU as well so we’ll have to see if that continues.”

Visit Kent chief executive Sandra Matthews-Marsh said: “Thanet is undoubtedly one of 2015’s biggest success stories and we have been thrilled to see the district grow so significantly.”

Thanet District Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, Cllr Hunter Stummer-Schmertzing (Ukip) says it is good news.

He said: “These results are simply fantastic and we are delighted Thanet is firmly on the map as a go-to destination.

“Thanet has experienced significant growth over the past few years and I am extremely proud of how far we have come.

“I am confident there will be more development on the horizon.”