THE chairman of Alcester Visitor Association (AVA) has dismissed rumours the group is to close.

Kevin Cook said the group had been due to have a meeting last week which had been postponed so they could wait for as full as turnout as possible but denied there was any discussion about folding.

"Some positive decisions about promoting Alcester have already been made so if we folded, it would be a complete surprise to me," he added.

The association was formed earlier this year to promote the town and Mr Cook said although it did not have a strict membership, there were people involved from a wide range of interests, including businesses, shops and places such as Billesley Manor and Ragley Hall.

He said they were aiming to promote Alcester in other regions and also hoped to heighten the town's profile in speciality areas such as walking, as well as running a competition with local schools to develop a logo for the association.

And he stressed they were looking at the promotion of Alcester as a long-term project rather than a short-term solution.

"Far from folding, I think this shows we are an action rather than talking group with specific and stated aims and actions to back that up," said Mr Cook.

"We have only officially been in existence for a couple of months and I believe the efforts of the founding team have demonstrated a commitment to Alcester and the AVA.

"None of this, if it is to succeed, can happen overnight and the AVA's approach of a long-term commitment with a practical timetable is a proper approach."

Mr Cook said they were always looking for more people to join and anyone interested can call him on 07840 784066.