Destination Harrogate’s second networking event for Sales and Marketing Managers took place in July and was hosted by Simon Cotton of the HRH Group at the Pickled Sprout, overlooking the Stray in the heart of Harrogate.
Topics of discussion ranged from ongoing issues with recruitment across the hospitality industry to reflections on the Great Yorkshire Show to the plethora of celebrations and opening events taking place this summer. From the 125th anniversary of Harrogate’s Turkish Baths to the opening of the newly refurbished Coach and Horses and the return of Theakston’s Crime Writing Festival.
Meeting some of the group for the first time was Destination Events Manager, John McGivern. Heading up the new Events Harrogate team, John draws on extensive experience in the events world, leading on the Olympic Torch Relay, Tour de France Grand Depart, several Tour de Yorkshire races and the UCI Cycling World Championships for Harrogate Borough Council.
Events Harrogate is now looking forward to hosting a series of familiarisation trips for a number of event organisers with whom they engaged at trade show exhibitions earlier this year. Leading this project is Destination Events Executive, Charlotte Sane, who will be contacting partners to build itineraries for the trade visits.
The Attractions Forum will meet again in September at the new Playhive at Stockeld Park. One of Europe’s largest indoor play centres, the £3.5million Playhive was the brainchild of Stockeld Park’s owners, Peter and Susie Grant, whose vision was to provide a high-quality weather-proof play experience. Everyone attending the next forum is invited to bring their inner child with them and explore the play spaces for themselves.
To find out more about any of the activities mentioned in this article, please contact Destination Harrogate’s Partnership & Commercial Manager, Helen Suckling: helen.suckling@destinationgharrogate.co.uk
