THE important role of Weymouth’s Tourist Information Centre has been highlighted by a staff member.

Senior advisor Mike Deadman has played a part in promoting the resort, guiding visitors to places to visit, eat, shop and stay. With his local knowledge, he can help people with particular requirements.

“That special knowledge, you just can’t buy,” he told the council meeting.

Mr Deadman added: “The phones are ringing, the post is coming in. People have seen Weymouth on TV and want to come here and we have the ability to tell visitors where to spend their money.

“The TIC plays a huge part in helping the local economy.”

Weymouth TIC recorded 222,000 admissions last year, equating to an estimated £1.3million additional spend in the economy. About a third came from from residents.

A council report says the TIC should close at the end of May and investigations carried out into alternative ways to deliver visitor information including services operated from the council offices, partnerships with businesses, and using an existing website.

Co-ordinator of the Weymouth Business Improvement District (BID) Nigel Reed said there are plans for ‘Weymouth Wayfarers’, people on the streets providing information to visitors, similar to Olympic Ambassadors.

The BID would also have a town centre office providing information.

Mr Reed said: “The BID would pick up aspects of what the TIC does but it wouldn’t take it over.”