Research released by South West Tourism (SWT) shows that the tourism industry is worth over £8bn to the area.

The South West Tourism Regional Economic Value Study draws together data from a number of surveys to show the contribution of tourism to the economy of the region.

The study reveals that in 2001, 26 million staying trips and 149 million day trips generated an estimated £8.3bn for the area and that 225,000 full time equivalent jobs were supported directly or indirectly by tourism spending. This equates to 307,000 actual jobs and represents 1 in every 8 jobs in the South West.

Malcolm Bell, chief executive of SWT, said: "The study will be invaluable in the future planning of tourism, both for SWT and for our partners across the region."

Funding for the report was provided in part by the South West Regional Development Agency and also by county and district councils throughout the region. Details: www.swtourism.co.uk