NORTHERN IRELAND COMPETES FOR BRITAIN’S FAVOURITE VIEW

9th August 2006

Northern Ireland will compete with sites across the UK for the title of Britain’s Favourite View. A national tourism campaign, linked to a prime-time TV series presented by Sir Trevor McDonald, will feature Strangford Lough. It is hoped the campaign will help to drive more visitors to the countryside and encourage people to holiday at home.

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board and VisitBritain have joined forces with ITV1’s major new summer series, Britain’s Favourite View to promote the diversity of landscapes across Northern Ireland and Britain. It is hoped that images of 16 land and city-scapes seen on television screens across the UK will inspire people to enjoy day trips and longer holidays throughout Britain. A special map has also been produced which can be ordered from www.britainsviews.com

Alan Clarke, Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board said: “The Britain’s Favourite View campaign will reach a huge audience of potential visitors and will highlight the appeals of a holiday or short break at home. Strangford Lough has been nominated as Northern Ireland’s candidate and the impressive footage will offer a sample of some of the world class scenery we have on our doorstep.”

Starting on Sunday 12 August, 16 celebrities will put their favourite vista up for a public vote before a grand final on 9 September determines Britain’s Favourite View. Local celebrity Eddie Irvine will feature alongside Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Katherine Jenkins, Rt Hon Charles Kennedy, Meera Syal and Jamie Redknapp.

Strangford Lough was chosen by Eddie Irvine as his favourite view and will feature strongly in the TV series. Commenting on the picturesque location he said, "Swept constantly by Atlantic weather, every single day is different. For trees, and oceans and hills and greenery it's hard to beat. This is my home and the place I return to, to slow down."

It is hoped the Northern Ireland public will get behind Strangford Lough and vote for the beauty spot to take it through to the final.

VisitBritain’s map and website include the 16 celebrity views plus a further 45 which together give a taste of the variety of travel experiences visitors can enjoy throughout Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales. The website also features the Giant’s Causeway, Belfast and the Fermanagh Lakes.

-ENDS-

For further information, please contact:

Tony Millar, Communication Officer at NITB on 028 9044 1644 or email t.millar@nitb.com