MP goes back in time to support tourism in Rotherham

British Tourism Week has shown that there is a lot more to Rotherham, which is steeped in history and intrigue, than meets the eye, and on Friday local MP Denis MacShane will be finding out for himself some of its unique sights and  captivating heritage.

At 10 am on Friday March 19, Denis MacShane will first find out what attractions are on offer at Rotherham Visitor Centre with a variety of publications, including the Rotherham Mini Guide, Town Centre Guide and the new 'On your Doorstep' leaflet, which features discounted vouchers for Rotherham attractions.

From there he will be visiting The Chapel of Our Lady, which remains only one of three complete examples of its type remaining in the country.

He will be venturing into the gaol under the Chapel for a rare look at the cells where criminals were once held and be viewing the scars on the 15th century building of a battle that took place during the civil war.

After his visit to the Chapel, Denis will be collected by volunteers of South Yorkshire Transport Museum in a traditional blue and cream Rotherham vintage bus to take him to the Museum on Aldwarke Lane to see the new developments which have been undertaken to expand space for visitors to view the vehicles and memorabilia.

Mr. MacShane said: "I am delighted to be able to take the opportunity of British Tourism Week to promote some of the hidden treasures of Rotherham which are on all our doorsteps. Our local tourism industry, both leisure and business tourism, is a vital part of our local and regional economy."

British Tourism Week is a national event to help raise awareness of the size, value and importance of Britain's £114 billion visitor economy. Rotherham's own visitor economy is worth over £225 million to the local economy annually and supports nearly 4,000 full time positions in the borough.