In a groundbreaking initiative and a first for any local authority in the country, the English Riviera Tourist Board has teamed up with a local primary school to produce a guide to the resort for children called 'By Kids, For Kids. The English Riviera For Kids'. Taking the refreshing attitude that young people are the real experts when it comes to recommending activities for other young people to do when they visit the area, and their parents, 65 children from Curledge Primary School in Paignton will be working on the project.

The children, aged between seven and eight years old will work together in small groups to look different local attractions and activities that would be of particular interest to kids. These will include sporting facilities, visitor attractions, beach activities and educational pursuits associated with the Geopark.

The children would then write the copy, supply quirky facts for fact boxes and even take photographs to be used in the guides. The English Riviera Tourist Board would then slot this information into a template to form a mini destination guide for young people visiting the Bay.

Aviva Pearson, Director of Tourism said: "We are really excited about this initiative, which is the first of its kind in this country or abroad. We've already met with the school children and had a brilliant response. They are really excited about the project and are geared up and raring to go. From our point of view, it is invaluable to see our tourism product through the eyes of young people. For them, it will help them to become aware of the activities and facilities available on their own doorstep and to develop pride and a feeling of citizenship in their area."

Fran Hartland from Curledge Primary School said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for the children. It will be something they'll be able to have pride in and keep, but also use themselves this summer and see other people using too. We know it's going to be hard work, but the local area is something that all the children have an interest in and they're going to enjoy learning about. The fact that their learning has been given a real purpose is very important them, they will realise the value in what they do achieve, knowing that it was all worthwhile."

For more information contact:

Matt Newbury
PR & Events Officer
English Riviera Tourist Board
01803-408350

Matthew.Newbury@torbay.gov.uk