Get involved in British Tourism Week from Monday 10 to Tuesday 18 March and help draw attention to the critical importance of our £85 billion visitor economy.

With over 100 events already taking part, don't forget you can now submit your own event online for accreditation under the British Tourism Week banner.

As Britain heads into another holiday season, businesses, accommodation providers and attractions, Tourist Information Centres, regions and destinations, are being urged to encourage their local MP to gain a first-hand understanding of tourism and the issues they face. The Constituency Day, when MPs are being encouraged to ‘go back to the floor’ in tourism businesses, takes place on Friday 14 March.

Tom Wright, chief executive of VisitBritain and co-chairman of British Tourism Week’s multi-sector steering committee, says: “I hope that MPs will take this chance to lead the way in demonstrating their commitment to Britain’s fifth largest industry and visit a tourism business in their area during British Tourism Week.

“Their help will highlight the appeals of heritage sites and historic buildings, of exploring our countryside and cinematic landscapes or taking a break in contemporary cities.”

Last year many MPs – including Nadine Dorries, Michael Howard, Simon Hughes, Theresa May, Dawn Primarolo and Andrew Smith – visited their local tourist information centres, holiday parks and centres, farms, accommodation providers and attractions.

MPs are also being asked to show their support ahead of the Week by signing a pledge card at the House of Commons on Wednesday 5 March. They also have the opportunity to enjoy a ‘Blue Badge’ guided coach tour of attractions around their London ‘office’ on Thursday 13 March.

There are many ways to get involved but whatever you decide to do, your event needs to be accredited for it to be included in the events listing, for further information and a full calendar of events please go to the website: www.parliament.uk/people and click on ‘how do I get involved?’

Stephen Dowd, co-chairman of British Tourism Week and chief executive of UKinbound, adds: “We urge businesses to write, email or call their local MP and persuade them to take some time to show their support for tourism in their area and the people who depend on the industry for jobs and livelihoods.”

Visit www.parliament.uk/people and enter your postcode to find your local MP.

Visit www.britishtourismweek.com for more information on the week of events being organised around the country.

Photograph: MP Lembit Opik shows his support for British Tourism Week in 2007