A WORKSHOP tailored to help local businesses from transport providers to tearooms make the most of the new England/Somerset Coast Path is being held in Dunster next month.

The 58-mile section of the path running from Minehead to Brean follows some of the country’s most spectacular coastline and opens up a new experience for walkers.

The workshop, at the Luttrell Arms Hotel on February 22, offers the chance to find out how:

* The new Coast Path can benefit business.

* How to attract more walking tourists/visitors.

* The latest trends in social media and walking tourism will impact business on the Coast Path.

* Local distinctiveness and authenticity can increase business.

* How to create unique experiences.

* How to build a great social media campaign around the new coast path product.

* How to provide the best customer service to visitors coming to the coast path to ensure they return and spread the word to attract new visitors.

Cllr Andrew Hadley, West Somerset Council’s lead member for economic regeneration and growth, said: “The new Coast Path is a great natural asset for West Somerset and I hope that local businesses involved in tourism will join the workshop to discover how they can make the most of it.

“Tourism is a vitally important industry locally with as many as a third of the local workforce employed in this sector.

“The path is another attraction to add to the many we are proud of and it will attract more visitors, providing new opportunities for tourism businesses.”

Speakers include Max Lawrence, Sarah Littler, project manager rights of way, Kate Doodson and Nell Barrington.

A finger buffet and refreshments will be included along with time for networking with like-minded businesses. Those attending will receive a pack of information on how to get the most from the Coast Path with loads of helpful links, ideas and contacts.

Places are limited. You can book by visiting www.eventbrite.co.uk and searching for somerset coast path