BUSINESSES and tourism providers in Minehead could be given a new voice.

Local guest house owner Steve Grice is behind the new Minehead Tourism and Business Association, which is being launched today (Friday).

Mr Grice, a former town councillor, is keen to represent businesses passionate about the resort as a tourist destination.

And he said the new initiative would be different from existing forums and organisations because membership would be free.

Initially the association will be internet based, working through a new website http://www.loveminehead.co.uk">www.loveminehead.co.uk.

"I believe it is important that there are no barriers to people joining and subscription fees can often put people off," said Mr Grice.

"A lot of businesses are really struggling because of the lack of footfall.

"I am really keen to have somewhere that businesses can share their problems and common goals.

"Small businesses can often feel quite isolated and it can be good to pool resources and ideas.

"It's a really tough environment out there and the number of visitors coming to Minehead 'on spec' has virtually dried up - people just don't have the money."

Mr Grice said if the association attracted sufficient support and members with a good and varied skills base, he hoped to have meetings where members could meet face to face.

But, he said, although the group would be run by volunteers, it would be properly constituted from the start.

"I accept there will be some crossover with existing groups in the town but I hope to be able to encourage more sharing of ideas and talking."

Mr Grice said members would be kept informed through a monthly e-newsletter to keep people informed of local events, activities, seminars and other relevant information.

And the association would work with local authorities and other organisations to ensure the views and opinions of members were represented and considered as part of the decision-making process for issues affecting tourism in Minehead.

"We hope to be able to influence and help shape any future developments or initiatives but the overriding focus will be to keep Minehead on the map and ensure it remains a key tourist destination."

Any businesses interested in joining the new association should email [email protected]">[email protected].