VOLUNTEERS are being invited to be "tourism ambassadors" for the county.
As Visit Essex launched its 'Live Local, Love Local' campaign, more than 250 local volunteers were invited to the launch of the new Tourism Ambassador scheme, which strives to give the 41 million visitors coming to the county each year the very best experience.
Essex County Councillor Kevin Bentley, cabinet member for economic growth and vice chair of Visit Essex, said: "Volunteering played a pivotal role in the success of the 2012 Games, not only in Essex but throughout the UK.
"I am delighted to see that we will continue this legacy, whilst focusing on specific areas such as tourism, where it will have such a great impact."
At the one day conference the volunteers were given customer care training from expert Jo Beard, as well as destination training from Visit Essex.
Much like the Essex Ambassadors during the 2012 Games, the Tourism Ambassadors will become greeters at key gateways including ports, airports and train stations, where they will hand out visitor maps. They will also assist on the Visit Essex stand at local shows including, Clacton airshow, Tendring show and Essex Country show.
George Kieffer, chairman of Visit Essex, added: "I am delighted that we are able to launch a scheme like this. The tourism industry brings in £3 billion to the Essex economy and it can only do that by offering a quality service to visitors.
"These volunteers will bring that extra added value to our customer service, offering a great welcome and advice. That will bring people back to the county year after year."
For volunteering opportunities visit www.goodforessex.org
