HELPING tourism businesses achieve their ambitions is the aim of the new chairman of Visit Somerset, Hugh Cornwell.

His appointment follows the death of 'Mr Somerset' Bob Smart, who lost his battle with leukaemia in May.

John Turner, chief executive of Visit Somerset, the official destination management organisation for the county, revealed Mr Smart had put Mr Cornwell forward for the chairmanship.

He said: “When Bob was handing over the mantle his express wish was that Hugh would take over as chairman.

“We have carried out Bob’s wishes with a unanimous vote in favour of Hugh becoming our chairman, which I am delighted about.

"Hugh is thoughtful, engaging and a stabilising influence, which will help the team continue to grow in a sustainable and long-lasting fashion.

"I am genuinely looking very much forward to moving 'brand Somerset’ forward with one of the 'tourism greats' in the county, it will be a real honour. Welcome aboard Hugh.”

Mr Cornwell has worked in international tourism marketing and operations since 1968 and retired recently after 26 years as general manager of Cheddar Caves and Gorge.

He said: “I am delighted to be invited by Visit Somerset to be its chairman.

"The team, led by its CEO John Turner, comprises marketing professionals from all parts of the holiday industry in Somerset who donate their time, skills and enthusiasm pro bono to attract people from all over Britain and abroad to holiday in our beautiful county.

“Somerset has a countryside, and a seaside, to fall in love with and offers holidaymakers a warm welcome, a change of pace and special memories to take back home.

“I like Somerset, I like tourism and the people who work so hard to make their businesses grow. It will be a privilege for me to help everyone achieve their ambitions.”