NEW footfall data showing Hereford is up by over 25 percent in visitors proves Hereford is pulling in the tourists, claims Hereford Business Improvement District chief executive Mike Truelove.

Data released by the Hereford BID covering the week of August 10 to 17 shows a strong surge in the number of visitors coming to Hereford city centre.

Mr Truelove said: "Although increased footfall does not necessarily mean people are shopping more the report is a good indicator as to the ‘mood’ of the high street showing that visitors have surged in the last week to 71,000 - an increase of 25 percent on the previous week.

"Our data indicates that many of those are unique visits, meaning visitors that have never been to Hereford before. This can likely by attributed to factors such as the incredibly successful Eat Out to Help Out. Our hospitality sector is hugely respected in the region and naturally bookings are high as visitors flock to try discounted homemade dishes as well as national favourites.

"Also, Hereford has a very strong offering of hotels for all budgets providing superb rates including the Green Dragon, Castle House Hotel and newly built Premier Inn at the Old Market.

"This really does match the demand and expectation for those looking for somewhere to eat, sleep and explore, many of which value quality and experience over anything else when parting with their hard earned money."

Footfall in recent weeks has been challenging for Hereford as the Covid-19 crisis continues, with many businesses traditional shoppers previously staying away, the BID said.

Mr Truelove said: "Hereford is one of the safest places to visit and due to our rurality with beautiful landscapes and fantastic history, makes our city the perfect base to explore – we’ve certainly benefited from the staycation trend.

"Many of our non-food businesses also report an uplift in sales too so we should all feel proud that Hereford is such a popular location and can compete amongst the best out there.

"It is up to us all to continue to talk and sell the city for it’s great delights and discoveries – the footfall proves this is the case".