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Comment - Outdoor March 2009
I'm looking forward to the OS Outdoors Show, though by the time you read this it will probably have finished. The attendance figures last year were incredible, and it shows that there is a real thirst for the outdoors in the UK. I suspect figures this year will be the same or even better, as we keep being told that people are planning domestic holidays this year instead of going abroad.
I'm sure they are; all we need is a half-decent summer and frankly, half of Wales won't know what's hit it, never mind the Peak District and Lake District. Scotland will think it's been invaded, while Spain has its quietest summer in years and years in terms of foreign visitors. Hopefully though, every other country in Europe will do the same and help boost those flagging economies. It's also a great way to give ourselves a pat on the back and remind each other that the UK is bloody lovely.
I've met far too many people in my life who are quick to recommend backpacking across Thailand, but who have never even explored the next county to them. Folks in the South East who have never bee further north than Watford, people from the Midlands who have never visited Scotland or Wales... the list goes on, and it becomes increasingly bizarre. Yes, it's a fascinating world, but it's a bit odd that some folks can't figure out why foreign tourists find the UK absolutely fascinating, and instead of having a look around, bugger off to Greece at the earliest opportunity, and end up going to the same place every year for ten years. That, to me, is just plain bonkers.
I've been lucky enough to see a lot of the world thanks to work, and there are very few places as beautiful as the British Isles out there. Everywhere is interesting in its own way, but the UK is so wonderfully green, and packed with such incredible and varied history. I really hope everyone gets out and enjoys our environs this year, it could be a really pleasant eye-opener and a real benefit to the outdoor industry.
PS: Check out page 15 this issue - Barry Roberts' column is great. He lifts the lid on the scandalous nature of charity fund-raising expeditions, and he's not pulling any punches!
Jon Bruford, Editor
SGB - Sports and Outdoor
01584 877177
