The chief executive of The Bishop's Palace and Gardens in Wells has been appointed chair of Somerset's official visitor economy partnership.

Merryn Kidd takes the helm of the Somerset and Exmoor Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), the body accredited by Visit England to provide strategic leadership across tourism and hospitality in the county and Exmoor. Her appointment comes as the organisation moves into its next phase of coordinated activity.

Kidd said she was "delighted to take on this role at such an important moment for Somerset and Exmoor", adding it gives a "clear and unified way to champion our visitor economy, support our businesses and strengthen the profile of our extraordinary area".

The LVEP also announced BBC MasterChef judge and local food critic William Sitwell as ambassador, who described Somerset and Exmoor as having "an exceptional story to tell" thanks to its landscapes, food culture and local businesses.

The partnership is backed by Somerset Council, which acts as accountable body, and draws in Visit Somerset, Visit Exmoor and the Exmoor National Park Authority. Strategic Lead Emma Thomasson links the board with Visit England. More announcements on shared priorities and sector coordination are expected in the coming months.

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