Whitehaven and Workington MP Josh MacAlister kicked off English Tourism Week with visits to attractions in his constituency.

English Tourism Week runs from March 14 – 23 and celebrates our country’s vibrant tourism offer.

The Whitehaven and Workington MP said: “I said it in my maiden speech in Parliament and I meant it, my constituency is without a doubt the most beautiful place in the UK.

“The dramatic landscapes of the remote western lakes, our stunning coastline, and towns and villages with a rich and vibrant offering for residents and visitors alike.

“Yes we have our challenges, and I’m working hard every day to address those, but let’s talk up our community and celebrate our strengths too.

“This English Tourism Week I’m committing to working with local and national partners to do everything I can to bring more of the tens of millions of tourists who visit the Lake District every year further west to support and boost our local economy.

“But I also want local residents to make more use of what we have right here on our doorstep.”

Starting over the weekend the MP visited Wild Ennerdale in the Lake District National Park and the Beacon Museum in Whitehaven.

Josh MacAlister visited the Beacon Museum to launch the week and saw the incredible Inspired by Industry exhibit, featuring 11 previously unseen Percy Kelly paintings.

Joined by Cumberland Council and Cumbria Tourism and they discussed ways to bring more visitors to West Cumbria’s civic museum.

Civic museums were given a £20 million funding boost in a recent announcement by the Government, which will benefit Tullie and the Beacon here in Cumberland.

“So why not use this weekend to go exploring in your own neighbourhood? Take a walk in the Wasdale or Ennerdale valleys or along our stunning coast, visit a local museum or theatre and enjoy a drink and some food in one of our world-class pubs and restaurants. And then shout about it to all of your friends.”

Over the week Josh had celebrated Florence Arts Centre, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Co, The Wasdale Sawmill, The Strands Inn, Screes Inn, Strands Distillery and Brewery, and Carnegie Theatre.

Along with trips to Cleator Moor, St Bees and Workington.

Using his social media the MP has been highlight all that West Cumbria and the western lakes has to offer, with posts every morning throughout the week on Facebook showcasing some of his favourite local destinations.