Community Says – VISIT HORNSEA

Following the decision by VHEY (Visit Hull and East Yorkshire) to close the Tourist Information Centre in the seaside resort of Hornsea, then locals have decided to set up their own visitor information service.

Following local upset about the decision to close the tourist information centre in favour of ‘touch-screen’ facilities in the local leisure centre, then local community activists have put their knowledge of the Hornsea area to good use by agreeing to staff a small stall giving out information to visitors for the three weeks left of the school holidays.

“Hornsea is a fascinating little town, situated as it is between the mere and the sea, and we have collected information about its history, plus lots of maps, as well as leaflets from visitor attractions etc, so there will be something new for most people and we welcome everyone calling in, local people as well as visitors.” Organiser Polly Wosdale reported on About My Area.

The centre opened yesterday (17th August 2009) in the Methodist Church, almost directly opposite the closed Tourist Information Centre in Newbegin.

It will be open from 10am to 4pm on weekdays, and possibly Saturday mornings, offering information to anyone about local attractions.

What a fantastic example of local community action filling the gaps in mainstream services. VHEY have claimed that the new ‘touch-screen’ service is a pilot scheme and will be reviewed at the end of the holiday season. This review must surely take into account and nurture and invest in – yes spend money – to support this kind of community initiative.

Other information: VHEY website