Eastbourne Targets Green Travel

Eastbourne is challenging holidaymakers to go green with a new advertising campaign, encouraging more tourists to avoid overseas air travel and instead holiday in the UK.

The new campaign which shows Eastbourne visitors cycling, chatting over lunch and walking across the South Downs, is being pitted against popular buzz words 'Re:cycling', 'Greenhouse Gas' and 'Green Peace'.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Economy, Tourism & Environment, Councillor Steve Wallis said "Eastbourne has the best sunshine record in the country, so there is in fact a plethora of outdoor activities making the most of our unique climate. From paragliding to kayaking, you can really make the most of our stunning South Downs coast and country in a sustainable way."

The campaign is being shown to busy commuters from 21 May in high profile locations, across the London Underground and Birmingham city centre. Showing green open space and azure skies, it not only provokes discussion about green tourism, but aims to appeal to their desire to escape the city.

The latest in a series of the successful 'Change Your View' campaigns, it marks the fourth outing since beginning in 2004 with 'Blue Rinse'. Targeting 35 - 55 year olds, the campaigns challenge both elderly stereotypes and suggest there is more to English seaside resorts than a bucket and spade.

As well as Blue Flag beaches, Eastbourne in fact marks the start of the South Downs and the 100 mile-long South Downs Way, a popular route for walking, cycling and horse-riding holidays.

A variety of agents in and around the resort offer outdoor pursuits with lessons, equipment hire and guided hikes, often collecting visitors from the railway station as they arrive.

Half hourly trains run direct to London Victoria and travel cards such as Daysave and Downlander, also offer cheap bus and rail travel to many attractions across the region.

For more information telephone 0871 663 0031 or visit www.visiteastbourne.com to book accommodation online.