BBC One drama series Poldark has led to a dramatic increase in tourism, with officials describing it as “a huge boost for Cornwall’s economy”.

Visit Cornwall found that 13% of tourists stated that Poldark was the key reason for visiting the county.

The chief executive for Visit Cornwall, Malcolm Bell, described Poldark as “one of the stars of Cornwall”.

He added: “Cornwall is often referred to as ‘one of the stars of Poldark’ – I would say that Poldark is one of stars of Cornwall.

“All my colleagues around the UK are so envious that we have had such an amazing high quality programme over the last few years, most if not all would cut off their right arms to have the exposure that Cornwall has had across the world.

“Although this is the last series, we know the impact will last for a decade or more going forward. Before this latest adaptation, we were getting some Poldark fans from the original shows in the 1970s right up until 2014. So long live Poldark and we will be promoting Poldark for many years to come, if not decades.”

Cornwall brings in more than £2 billion a year through tourism and local businesses have found already a market for Poldark themed merchandise and tours. The tours have become increasingly popular, with more than 90 taking place last year. Tour stops include Kynance Cove, Charlestown harbour, Bodmin Moor and a series of mines in Penzance.

John Marshall, who set up Poldark Tours five years ago, said: “Poldark and Cornwall are synonymous now, it’s enormous business for the county.

“After series one there were already quite a few locations to visit. Now they are using the west coast, north coast, south coast – almost anywhere you stay in Cornwall Poldark has been there. It’s brilliant for tourism.

“With the show now going on TV in China and Argentina that could mean even more business coming to Cornwall. We’re already taking bookings for 2020.

“They say after a series has ended you have around 10 years-worth of tourists still coming in.”

Poldark’s final season will air later this year and fans are flocking from around the globe to see locations from the programme, with tourists from as far as the United States and New Zealand.

Stephanie Marshall, head of the BBC in the South West, said: “We’re really proud that Poldark is leaving a legacy in Cornwall. The show has been hugely popular – not just in the UK but around the world. Leaving something lasting which locals can build on is really important to us.”