WITH more people than ever coming in to the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site to discover its history and enjoy its attractions, a new scheme has been launched to make sure they get a warm welcome.
The team that promotes and manages the World Heritage Site is now offering free training to shop and business workers in Belper, so that when visitors ask them a question about the town’s heritage, attractions and facilities they’ll be able to give the right answer.
This pilot scheme is already proving popular, with a good take-up by businesses, and it is hoped it will role out to the other communities in the World Heritage Site next year.
There have been two one-off sessions so far, with a third taking place on Thursday 5 July at 6.30pm. There are a few places left that day, and these can be booked on 01629 536831. If you can’t make that date, contact that number so you will receive information on future training dates.
The free training involves a 90 minute walk with World Heritage Site Coordinator Adrian Farmer and Belper historian Mary Smedley, followed by a short session at the end to take attendees through an information pack with extensive easy-to-use information about the town.
The Chairman of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site Board Councillor Andrew Lewer said: “A warm and welcoming first impression encourages visitors to stay a little longer and if we can provide them with the right information for lengthening their stay they will probably spend more in the town. Every satisfied visitor will go away and tell others about their experience and encourage them to visit. We are trying to make sure this happens.”