Somerset County Council will be sowing the seeds of recovery at the Bath & West Show next week, aiming to help boost flood-hit tourism and remind people that the county is open for business.

Somerset tourism has been hard hit-by the winter floods, with bookings down by an estimated 40 per cent. The Council’s stand will be hosting representatives from some of the county’s most popular attractions and destinations, who will be showcasing some of the great places to visit and things to do.

Visitors can complete a fun quiz for the chance to win a luxury weekend at Dillington House, which includes dinner, bed and breakfast and tickets to a concert. By completing the quiz they can also take away forget-me-not seeds, as a reminder not to forget that Somerset – its beautiful countryside and fun attractions – are well and truly open for business.

“For the residents and businesses directly affected by the flooding, the impact was devastating,” said Cllr David Hall, Cabinet Member for Business, Inward Investment and Policy.

“But, it was a relatively small area and the tourism bookings suggest that many people thought – and still think – the county as a whole is off limits. Tourism is a vital part of our economy and it’s important that we help it bounce back.”

The Council stand will feature activities for children, interactive games, Museum of Somerset activities, and information about the 20 Year Flood Action Plan.

Show-goers can also meet the Council’s cuddly mascot, Sparky the dragon, who will be encouraging children and grown-ups to take their own picture with him and post the ‘selfies’ on twitter to @SomersetCouncil.