TOURISM businesses in Copeland are being encouraged to sign up to an initiative promoting the county’s fantastic visitor attractions to residents.

The first ever Cumbria Residents’ Week will take place from October 2 to October 10, with all businesses operating in the visitor economy invited to take part.

It is hoped that the scheme will help the business community bounce back from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic by encouraging residents to sample the great attractions, venues, eateries, hotels and shops on their doorstep.

Copeland has joined forces with Cumbria Tourism and the county's five other district councils to take part.

The objective is to promote participating businesses to Cumbrian residents, offering them a chance to win prizes through making a qualifying purchase of over £10 between October 2 and 10.

There is no cost for businesses to participate other than donating a prize, which could be free entry, an overnight stay, a free meal or gift voucher for example. Businesses will need to pass on a code to Cumbrian residents once they have made a qualifying purchase so that they can enter the prize draw.

Copeland’s Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Councillor Steve Morgan, said: “We are looking at lots of different ways to help Copeland businesses recover after the pandemic. It’s been a hard time and this is a great way for them to get some free promotion and connect with their local customers. Firms have been offering some fantastic prizes so far, and I would urge others to get involved and help boost business in Copeland.”

If the week-long event is a success, it is hoped it will become part of the annual calendar in Cumbria.