Tourism group talks of challenges ahead

AN organisation promoting tourism in Caithness and Sutherland is rising to the challenges the industry faces due to Covid-19.

Catherine Macleod, chairperson of Venture North, released a statement in which she talked of collaborative solutions to help find a "productive path forward".

"Tourism is a lifeblood industry in the north of the Highlands and must be protected – that is the view of Venture North," she said.

"We are facing a tough challenge to our rural economy and we applaud all our members and others who are working hard to follow government advice.

"The health of our community, members, employees and visitors is paramount."

She went on to say that the government measures taken "are very welcome".

She added: "For those business owners who are filling out application forms for grant assistance, it is important to complete all the information as precisely as possible to make the process faster.

"We are working hard to raise awareness for those who have not yet been covered by the government measures."

Ms Macleod says that even with the temporary halt to business it will take time to readjust and businesses will need help even after restrictions are lifted.

"As a tourism cooperative for Caithness and Sutherland, Venture North will do what we can to restore the tourism economy by working with all agencies to find a productive path forward."

Further information on Venture North can be found at www.venture-north.co.uk

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