North Devon+ invites businesses to get on board with Atlantic Watersports Games 2011

North Devon+ is inviting local businesses and individuals to get involved when North Devon plays host to the 17th Annual Atlantic Watersports Games from the 23rd to 28th July 2011.

The Games are set to attract in the region of 60,000 visitors to the area, which could see the local economy boosted by up to £14 million.

North Devon+ is in discussion with the Bideford Chamber of Commerce to encourage local retailers and food and drink outlets to capitalise on the Atlantic Watersports Games. Jane Maynard, President of Bideford Chamber of Commerce said "The opening Ceremony will see a dramatic increase in footfall in Bideford, and local businesses will benefit by opening late, and catering to these visitors."

North Devon+, the Tourism and economic development company for North Devon and Exmoor, is managing the delivery of the Atlantic Watersports Games on behalf of the International Games Committee. Laura Holt, North Devon+ spokesperson said "the opening ceremony is being held in Bideford, which will see a dramatic increase in visitors as a result. We are keen to work with local retailers to ensure that they take advantage of this opportunity. We're also interested in hearing from market traders, live acts, street performers and any individuals or organisations that can provide volunteer services during the Games."

The Atlantic Watersports Games brings together under 21's that have competed at world and national level from 33 regions across five countries. Over 300 competitors have already registered to take part from 10 regions including Portugal, Spain, France and Ireland.

Several local companies and organisations have stepped forward with support to help bring this event to North Devon; including Actavis, Bideford Town Council, Ruda Holiday Park in Croyde, Tiki Surf, Saltrock, Torridge District Council, Redbull, Lloyds TSB and Active Devon.

Councillor Barry Parsons, Leader of Torridge District Council and Chair of ND+ said "Thanks to the support that businesses, organisations and district councils have given North Devon+, the local economy will benefit in both the short and the long term, as a result of the Games being held in Northern Devon."

Laura Holt, North Devon+ spokesperson was keen to point out the merits of hosting the 2011 Games in North Devon; "The games are partly funded through the European Cooperation Fund and the NEA 2 project. Through local business sponsorship, North Devon+ has applied for additional funding through Sports England. As a result, not only do we get to showcase the beauty and diversity of North Devon and Exmoor as a tourist destination, but we also put our coastline on the International watersports map and increase visitor footfall for local businesses."

The 2011 Games will feature Surfing and Surf Kayaking at Croyde Bay, Kite Surfing at Westward Ho! Surf life saving and Sea Kayaking at Saunton Sands, Rowing on the River Torridge at Bideford and Sailing and Windsurfing at Roadford Lake.

The 90 strong Devon Team, sponsored by Actavis, will be competing across all six disciplines. Sara Vincent, Managing Director of Actavis, based in Barnstaple said "Actavis is thrilled to be supporting the North Devon+ bid to host the Atlantic Watersports Games. By sponsoring the Devon Team Actavis is ensuring that Devon's young watersports athletes have the opportunity to compete at an international level."

North Devon+ is working with district councils, clubs and governing bodies to deliver a daily schedule of taster sessions during the Games. Spectators will have the chance to experience a range of watersports activities from surfing and kayaking to sailing and windsurfing.

Bideford will play host to the opening ceremony on Sunday 24th July. Bideford Quay will host an afternoon of festivities from 2pm, with a craft and food market, street performances and live entertainment. At 5pm the competing regions will take to the streets in a procession led by Samba Sol, and accompanied by the Breton pipe band.

The procession starts at Clarence Wharf, crossing Bideford Bridge, then Allhalland Street, Mill Street and Bridgeland Street before arriving at the Quay for the opening ceremony itself. Live entertainment will continue on stage until 7pm.

Local businesses also have the opportunity to reach visitors through a listing in the Official Games Programme, which will be distributed for free through local retail outlets, TICs and distributors, as well as available online and handed out during the Games themselves. To include your business in the Programme, contact Dave Allan on 01237 426427.

Laura Holt, North Devon+ spokesperson stressed that more sponsorship was being sought. "The more sponsorship we secure, the bigger and better the North Devon Atlantic Watersports Games will be, and the more visitor spend we attract to the area. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for local businesses to support North Devon."

Anyone wishing to get involved with the Atlantic Watersports Games should contact Isabelle Bromham at ibromham@northdevonplus.co.uk

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About North Devon+
North Devon+ is the destination management organisation responsible for promoting North Devon and Exmoor to the world. The organisation acts as a voice for tourism in North Devon and its aim is simple - to increase the number of visitors to North Devon by promoting the area as a year-round destination for business and leisure. North Devon+ is committed to growing the tourism sector sustainably, increasing the skills within the industry, and raising the quality of the visitor experience.