Tim Batstone, new chair of the British Association of Leisure Parks Piers and Attractions (BALPPA), discussed both the difficulties faced by the UK tourism market in 2006 and the organisation’s future strategy at its recent AGM.

He said: “2006 was difficult for our members. Pleasureland, Southport, and American Adventure in Derbyshire closed.

“However, when the going gets tough, the tough gets going!”

He recommended “increased subscriptions for BALPPA membership to fund the employment of professional lobbyists to help secure recognition of the sector in the tourism industry.”

Batstone also announced that last year saw BALPPA rise in stature as a credible Trade Association both politically and among peers, as well as plans to establish an agenda with government that is sympathetic to its members.

Photograph: Pleasureland, Southport