This month marks Gill Haigh’s seventh anniversary as MD of Cumbria Tourism.

It comes just ahead of World Tourism Day this Friday, which recognises “the important role that tourism plays in building social, cultural and political values worldwide”. 
Gill said: “A lot has happened over the last 84 months and there have been a number of seismic changes and challenges to navigate together. The Covid pandemic and lockdowns, coupled with the impact of Brexit and long-term labour shortages, have had a major impact on Cumbrian businesses - not least the visitor economy. 
“Since 2020 Cumbria’s visitor profile has also changed; older, more traditional visitors haven’t returned in the same way and we’ve been working alongside many businesses to regain our important international markets. CT colleagues recently joined a trade mission to Australia and will be heading to India later in the year. Further trade events are planned for Ireland, Europe and the US.  
“A new generation has discovered Cumbria’s health and wellbeing benefits, its culture and heritage and our quality independent retail and hospitality. ‘Locals’ now also make up a bigger percentage of our visitor market.
 “Just as the lockdowns lifted, we were all hit by the energy crisis. Then came the rising cost of other commodities, fuel, mortgage rates and household cost of living impact. Throughout, Cumbria Tourism has worked closely with its members, listening to the reality on the ground and sharing that reality with decision-makers regionally and nationally. 
 “This year is CT 50th anniversary. It’s a significant achievement but we’re already looking forward to the next decade as a strong and respected organisation.We were one of the first nationally to be awarded VisitEngland’s Local Visitor Economy Partnership accreditation, giving us government recognition and underlining an expectation that organisations such as local councils work directly with us. 
“Cumbria’s newly launched Destination Management Plan is a collective plan we’ve developed alongside both councils, national parks and many others to support sustainable economic growth through tourism. I look forward to taking up my position on Cumbria’s new Economic Growth Board, Enterprising Cumbria, and helping bring forward opportunities to directly benefit businesses.
 “There is a lot to look forward to and lots to tackle together – from climate change to the digital and technology revolution to ever-changing visitor expectations. These areas are a key focus for November’s ‘Future Trends and Innovation Conference’ at the Low Wood Bay Resort. 
“I continue to feel blessed to work alongside so many inspiring people, not least the thousands of member businesses we represent, our board, strategic partners and staff team. Here’s to the future and to the next seven years.”