Tourism chiefs have handed Visit East Anglia (VEA) a two-year contract to promote Suffolk as a holiday destination by the county’s local authorities and the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership.

The organisation will be charged with increasing visitor numbers and increasing tourist spend, as well as representing Suffolk at events.

VEA chief executive, Keith Brown, said: “We are delighted to be awarded this important contract which will build on the initial marketing activities that we have developed jointly and delivered on behalf of Suffolk businesses.

“The tourism market, as always, remains very competitive and the competition to attract visitors into our county is fierce.

“We will be focusing particularly on our cultural and heritage assets in the next two years as well as emphasising our key strengths in our quality food and drink sectors.”

Richard Smith, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member responsible for economic development and tourism, said: “Everyone who lives and works in Suffolk knows that it’s a wonderful and exciting place to visit and spend time with family and friends.

But we need to shout about it - and be creative in the way we do so - if we’re going to increase the number of tourists visiting our fantastic county.

“Too often, Suffolk hides its light under a bushel. This is about being proud of Suffolk and showing people precisely why.

“Visit East Anglia has a proven record of promoting Suffolk and causing a buzz about what it has to offer.

“I’m confident that they understand what’s special about Suffolk and will help our local businesses to make the most of what we have here.”