Visit Devon congratulates Exeter Chiefs on promotion to the Premiership which will give huge boost to off peak tourism

Release Date: 01/05/2010

As Exeter Chiefs make history by becoming the first South West team to make it into top flight rugby after their victory against Bristol at the Memorial Stadium, Visit Devon congratulates the team whose victory gives the region a fantastic opportunity to showcase Devon to clubs and supporters in the Premiership.

Visit Devon already has a long standing relationship with The Chiefs and is delighted at the Club’s historical victory and the resultant potential for the tourism sector in the forthcoming season. General Manager of Visit Devon, Rosie Bates, says, “We are long term supporters of Exeter Chiefs and this is incredible news for them and the Club. We are looking forward to extending a warm welcome to all the away supporters from as far away as Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester and London. “With Exeter Chiefs reaching the Premiership it opens the doors to so many opportunities for business in the region and will provide a great boost for the tourism sector during the season which extends from September to April.” Plans are already underway for an open topped bus carrying the Chiefs squad from St James Park to parade through Exeter City Centre on Saturday 29 May, on its way to a civic reception at The Guildhall, hosted by the City’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Marcel Choules.

Notes to Editors

For more information about Visit Devon, contact Rosie Bates, General Manager, 01392 332828 or rosie@visitdevon.co.uk or go to www.visitdevon.co.uk . For further press information please contact:

Jane Adkins T/: 01935 813114 M/: 07960 698089 E/: jane@aheadforpr.co.uk Gail Livingstone T/: 01823 252415 M/:07767 055595 E/: gail@aheadforpr.co.uk About Visit Devon Visit Devon is the destination management organisation responsible for promoting Devon to the world. The organisation acts as a voice for tourism in Devon and its aim is simple - to increase the number of visitors to Devon by promoting the county as a year-round destination for business or leisure. The organization brings together, adds value to and enhances the work and activities undertaken by the six Area Tourism Partnerships across the county. Visit Devon is committed to growing the tourism sector sustainably, increasing the skills within the industry, and raising the quality of the visitor experience. Visit Devon is a public-private partnership limited by guarantee. The not for profit company comprises of nine member organizations including the six Area Tourism Partnerships (Exeter and Essential Devon, Visit Plymouth, North Devon+, The Dartmoor Partnership, The English Riviera Tourist Board, and Visit South Devon) Devon County Council, The Devon Association of Tourist Attractions (Data), and Devon Farms. Visit Devon is the trading name of Destination Devon Ltd.