EAST of England Tourism has formed a new Commercial Members’ Advisory Panel in the run-up to the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Tourism bosses expect tourism in the East of England to grow significantly in the run-up to the event, and have formed the panel to ‘champion’ the Tourism Action Plan developed by Nations & Regions East.

Increasing engagement with a greater number of commercial tourism businesses throughout the region remains a key focus for 2010-11, and the panel will help shape future activity and ensure that all sectors of the tourism industry in the region are represented. It will also act as a sounding board for new projects and developments and help to promote networking opportunities with other members, and with other organisations in the region.

Sheila Charrington from Layer Marney Tower in Essex, who chairs the Panel, said: “It is really good to see this Advisory Panel up and running.

“There is now a direct line for the commercial members to get involved with EET’s activities.

“The membership of the panel reflects a breadth and knowledge throughout the tourist trade and I foresee some lively discussions.”