TOP tourist attractions in Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa have been given the thumbs up by a party of visitors from national coach tour operators.

The three-day visit was organised by Worcestershire Tourism, which is a partnership between various local authorities, including Bromsgrove and Wychavon district councils.

During the 'familiarisation' weekend, visitors were shown a selection of what the county has to offer and asked for feedback on the area's attractions and hotels.

Worcestershire Tourism officers said they are "absolutely delighted" by the response.

The group enjoyed an early breakfast and a look around the award-winning Webbs of Wychbold Garden Centre and a guided tour and lunch at Bromsgrove's Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings.

County council tourism officer Kathryn Wagstaff said: "I'm absolutely delighted with the response from our visitors.

"This is quite a boost to tourism in Worcestershire and I am confident this trend will continue."

In 1998, the Heart of England Tourist Board estimated tourism in Worcestershire generated £399m and 12.9m visitors each year with a workforce of more than 15,000.

For more information, log-on to www.worcestershire-tourism.org