New campaign aims to attract visitors to Northumberland for a late season mini-break

The ‘Save Your Summer’ campaign, which launched over the bank holiday weekend, has been developed in partnership between NewcastleGateshead Initiative, North Tyneside Council, Northumberland Tourism and North of Tyne Combined Authority.

The campaign has now been backed by UK Government as part of its Enjoy Summer Safely campaign, to support an extensive digital, print and outdoor advertising campaign, focused on regions within a two-hour drive from the North East.

‘Save Your Summer’ will be part of the government’s wider national campaign to encourage people to protect themselves against coronavirus while holidaying in the UK.

The fund will give a huge boost to the region’s tourism industry which has been dramatically affected by the pandemic – forecasts suggest that the sector will see its economic impact cut by as much as 50% in the region in 2020.

Cllr Peter Jackson, leader of Northumberland County Council and North of Tyne Combined Authority cabinet member for place and productivity, said: "I think sometimes we take for granted what we have here on our doorstep, when in fact we should be incredibly proud.

"We’re renowned for our history, culture, industry, ingenuity and innovation, also for our beautiful countryside and coast. This is a unique and special place.

"We can save our summer by holidaying closer to home. Support in the coming month for our local businesses, towns, villages, and city will help us bounce back strongly from Covid-19, which is our top priority."

Cris Brown, operations manager at Northumberland Tourism, added: “By joining forces as a North of Tyne region, we feel we have created the most enticing offer for visitors.

"From culture, history and urban experiences to coast, castles and countryside, we have it covered between the relatively small geographical area of NewcastleGateshead, North Tyneside and Northumberland.

“The government backing of our campaign has allowed us to reach more potential visitors than ever, raising awareness of our destination that has so much to offer and is often overlooked.”

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