Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes has praised the town’s hospitality sector for launching the Check In – Chill Out positivity campaign. The initiative, created by the BH Area Hospitality Association (BAHA), aims to counter negative national media coverage with a renewed focus on the many strengths of the local area.
Speaking recently in Parliament, Mr Hayes raised the cancellation of the Bournemouth Air Festival and highlighted BAHA’s campaign to the Leader of the House of Commons. He also called for a parliamentary debate on tourism in coastal and seaside towns, underlining its importance to communities like Bournemouth.
At a constituency meeting with Check In – Chill Out representatives, Mr Hayes discussed the challenges facing local tourism and hospitality. Topics included the damaging effect of cynical reporting, which he said paints a distorted picture of the town.
Rosie Radwell, Chair of BAHA, stressed the ongoing importance of tourism to the region:
“This area was built on tourism, and it continues to be a vital part of our economy today. Some reports suggest we live in a no-go zone, which is simply not true. Like any town or city, we face some challenges, but crime is falling and we live in a beautiful part of the world with so much to offer visitors and residents alike.
“It can be disheartening to read constant negativity when the reality is that we are fortunate to have so many things here worth celebrating.”
Despite a limited promotional budget, Check In – Chill Out is gaining momentum as more people embrace its positive message. Mr Hayes said: “I won’t tolerate anyone talking down our town. Bournemouth is fantastic, brimming with brilliant people, bursting with potential, and racing in the right direction. I know people feel frustrated and we’ve got a big hole to dig ourselves out of – but we’ll make Bournemouth better together. I’ll continue to work with anyone who cares about making our town the best place to be on the coast.”
I congratulate the hospitality sector for standing up for Bournemouth and sharing its many positives. I am proud to represent this town, which I believe is the best seaside destination in the country. I will continue working with BCP Council and other partners to keep tourism high on the agenda and secure further improvements.”
As part of the campaign, BAHA has launched keepsake tote bags and a promotional video showcasing the south coast’s best features — from its award-winning beaches and striking coastline to its lively nightlife, cultural heritage, and rich maritime traditions — celebrating everything that makes Bournemouth and the wider region one of the UK’s most loved destinations.
The video is now live across the Check In – Chill Out social media channels and can be viewed on the local tourism websites:
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Picture caption: Tom Hayes MP, with Rosie Radwell and Julie-Anne Houldey from the 'Check In- Chill Out' Campaign.
PR CONTACT for Check In- Chill Out Campaign: Lime Tree Communications: 07710 533695.
