UK tourism struggles to restore image after riots

UK Tourism chiefs are struggling to restore the international reputation of Britain, following the rioting that spread across England just one year ahead of the Olympic Games.

The images of violence, looting and youths burning buildings and cars across the country which were splashed across newspapers and TV screens across the world have prompted some governments to issue travel advisories to their citizens warning against all 'non-essential' travel to Britain.

But a spokesperson for he UK’s national tourism agency Visit Britain said it was "too early"  to assess the long-term impact of the violence on visitor numbers.

“It is currently too early to anticipate the effect on tourism/ inward investment but we are monitoring the situation and we will work with the industry to respond to specific issues as they arise.”

According to the tourism board there have so far been no reports of tourists cancelling their trips to the UK off the back of the riots.

“Feedback from our overseas network indicates that although there is concern in some markets, there are no reports of cancellations.”

Visit Britain also moved to quell any fears that tourists had over visiting the UK and said “international visitors can continue to enjoy the UK as per usual.”

“It is important to recognise that these isolated incidents are occurring away from key visitor attractions around the UK.

“Transport services, including inbound flights, are all running a good service and major tourist attractions across London and the rest of Britain remain open and unaffected.”

International events such a the Olympic beach volleyball test event at Horse Guards Parade in the heart of London, and the test match between England and India in Birmingham were also “taking place in the sunshine” as planned said the spokesperson.