PROMOTING the canal system at Stourton and Kinver basins could considerably boost tourism in the villages according to South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson.

Even though the area is set to feature in VisitBritain, Mr Williamson believes there’s still much more that could be done to highlight the canal system.

He said: “The canals bring a great deal of tourists to Kinver, which helps boost the local economy by the money they spend in local shops.

“I would like to see the area promoted on an international stage and I don’t see any reason why there couldn’t be package deals aimed at the USA, Japan or even the rest of Europe.

“What better way is there to see England and its heritage than on a canal boat and we are lucky to be blessed with some beautiful canal networks in Staffordshire and Worcestershire.

“There’s more than just pretty villages to see, as the canals also travel through industrial heartland as well.

“People are naturally drawn to water and what makes the canal so unique in this area is the fact it follows the contours of the land.”

Mr Williamson has pressed the Department of Culture, Media and Sport to see what steps are being taken to promote tourism on inland waterways.

He added: “Our canals are jewels in the crown and something we need to shout about more often. It’s a brilliant way to travel and real good fun.”