Plans to scrap or simplify more than 60 regulations, freeing businesses from overly burdensome, bureaucratic or completely redundant rules have been announced by Tourism Minister John Penrose.

A green tourism discussion group is being set up in the north of the county for anyone associated with tourism in Northumberland.

The aim is to encourage members of the tourism industry to get together in an informal, friendly discussion, sharing green ideas and some energy and money saving tips.

Northumberland Visitor Economy Trends brings together county and national research on a quarterly basis to look at tourism business performance and issues which may have an effect on tourism in Northumberland.

Why not promote yourself on the Northumberland Deals page? It's a great way to advertise your special offers and vouchers and ensure your business it best placed to attract visitors looking for a great deal!

The' Deals' page can be accessed directly from our home page on www.visitnorthumberland.com and provides direct links to your offers, vouchers, competitions and to our consumer newsletter.

If you want to find out more, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01670 794 520.

An industry workshop was held to discuss the accommodation accreditation schemes run by Quality in Tourism and the AA. Questions are being asked about the future of these schemes both nationally and locally. Are they still relevant? Should Northumberland's marketing be opened up to non-accredited businesses? These questions and more were debated.

If you haven't booked already, this is a final reminder that all advertising for the official Northumberland Guide has to be placed by 9th September 2011. Once again we have had a very positive response to the guide and thanks to all those businesses that are advertising with us.