MPs Iain Stewart and Ben Everitt are being 'virtual tourists' in Milton Keynes for a week

Ben Everitt and Iain Stewart aim to show their support for the tourism industry and highlight its importance to the local economy.

Their initiative is part of English Tourism Week, which is an annual celebration dedicating to showcasing the the country's attractions.

This year, due to lockdown, the support has to be virtual.

Tourism is struggling badly in the coronavirus crisis and VisitEngland is administering a £1.3m emergency fund to support local venues and organisations throughout the coronavirus outbreak.

Under the scheme, destinations will be able to receive up to £2,500 per month for two members of non-furloughed staff who provide crucial business support services and up to £5,000 to cover operating costs.

Between 2016 and 2018 Milton Keynes welcomed on average 485,000 overnight trips per year, contributing £83 million per year to the local economy.

Currently two of the city's major attractions, Hazard Alley and the historic Bletchley Park, are offering virtual tours.

Also, many of MK's stunning parks and lakes, including Willen Lake, have remained opened for people to enjoy.

Ben Everitt, MP for MK North, said: "Now more than ever having outdoor green spaces to enjoy is so important for our mental health and MK is lucky to be full of beautiful parks, woodlands and lakes which you can enjoy during the recent sunny weather."

He added: "It's also great to see the innovation of places like Bletchley Park and Hazard Alley in making sure people can still attend virtually. But of course nothing beats the real thing so make sure you pay a visit when they're safe to reopen."

Milton Keynes South MP Iain said, "We are lucky in Milton Keynes to have so many attractions right on our doorstep. It has been a source of solace to many in the current difficulties to be able to walk or cycle through our woods and parks for exercise.

"For me personally, it has been a real joy to see the emergence of flora and fauna in Howe Park Wood as we moved through spring and into summer.

“Hopefully it will not be too long before our great museums, music venues and other attractions can once again welcome visitors from near and far.”

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said English Tourism Week was more important than ever this year.

“It is also about looking towards the future recovery and doing everything we can right now to ensure that tourism can bounce back to once again become one of the most successful and vibrant sectors of the economy.”