WITH British Tourism Week taking place this week, Con-ference Worcestershire is encouraging the thousands of people who attend meetings in the county every year to leave the boardroom for a change of scenery.

Emma Robinson, head of Conference Worcestershire, which promotes business tourism in the area, said the area's profile as a conference destination is on the rise, with about 400,000 people a year heading to meetings in the county.

To make the most of British Tourism Week, Miss Rob-inson is urging those in Worcestershire on business to explore the other side of the county. "During British Tourism Week it's important to highlight the two sides of tourism in Worcestershire - those who come to the county for business and meetings and those who visit for leisure and to enjoy its stunning scenery and range of attractions," she said.

"At Conference Worcester-shire we don't think that they should be separate so we are calling on everyone coming for a conference to introduce a social element to the event and get their delegates out and about in Worcestershire.

"Whether it's with a team building activity away from the boardroom, a visit to one the county's historic sites - such as Worcester Cathedral or Elgar's Birthplace Museum - an afternoon on the golf course or at the races, or an evening out at one of Wor-cestershire's first-class rest-aurants, there is so much to see and do.

"Conference Worcester-shire can advise how best to develop this social programme for the event so attendees can explore the county and still achieve the meeting's aims. It's a great way to liven up a conference and ensure it's an experience for everyone.

Worcestershire boasts a string of award-winning hotels, a number of top-class sports venues, such as Worcester Rugby Club, and a range of exciting other conference centres, such as Deer Park Hall, on Bredon Hill, and Malvern Theatres.

It is also close to Birmingham International Airport and a major motorway network.

For more information on conference venues for business people, and other services go to www.conference-worcestershire.org.