POPULAR broadcaster Eric Robson will swap horticulture for tourism when he chairs a special question-and-answer session in the Eden valley next Wednesday (March 12).

Mr Robson, chairman of BBC Radio Four's Gardeners' Question Time, takes charge of a tourism version of the familiar format, which will feature high-profile speakers from the tourism industry and government.

Panel members will include Cumbria Tourism's development director Richard Greenwood, James Berresford, director of tourism at the North West Development Agency, Kevin Douglas, chief executive of Eden District Council and Alison Cryer, chairman of the Tourism Society.

Mr Robson said: "Tourism is vital to the well being and economy of Cumbria and Eden and we must stay ahead of the game if we are to compete against other destinations around the world which are raising standards and attracting visitors year after year."

Mr Berresford said: "Tourism is worth in excess of £11 billion to the regional economy and British Tourism Week gives us the opportunity to demonstrate just how seriously we take this business.

"With so many committed individuals involved in the industry, I am sure this will prove to be an engaging debate."

The event, being held as part of British Tourism Week, is at the Roundthorn Hotel, Beacon Edge, Penrith.

It has been organised by Eden District Council and sponsored by a consortium of local hotels.