Celebrity chef to head Lancashire marketing drive

Paul Heathcote, a self-professed proud Lancastrian who worked under legendary chef Raymond Blanc, has been chosen to lead Marketing Lancashire, which replaces the Lancashire and Blackpool Tourist Board.

In addition to owning The Olive Press and Heathcote's Brasserie in Preston, and the Longridge Restaurant in the Ribble Valley, he also sits on the board of Lindley, an outside catering business. In his role as a food consultant he has appeared on several national TV shows.

Speaking of his appointment, Paul said: “I am delighted to accept the role of chairman. I am proud of Lancashire’s past and present, but excited on how I can help shape the future.

“I am confident that I can support and encourage a team to make Lancashire a destination of choice for tourism.

“It has a large part to play in our economy, both private and public sectors will need to rally together to make this happen. It is about being creative, bold and optimistically cautious all at the same time.”

Established by Lancashire County Council, Marketing Lancashire will be a private sector led board with the objective of promoting Lancashire as a tourism destination. It will also promote wider business investment in the county, which is crucial to growing a diverse economy.

The new company will work closely with public and private sector organisations across Lancashire to promote the county as a place to visit, work and invest.

Edwin Booth, chair of Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, said: “Marketing Lancashire is a new organisation looking for a fresh approach to marketing and promoting the county. It will work closely with Lancashire Enterprise Partnership and I think that Paul is an ideal person to lead it.

“Paul’s enthusiasm for Lancashire and business expertise make him an ideal choice for chairman. He'll be leading a company that will continue to promote the £3.25bn visitor economy as well as other business sectors which will be key to strengthening Lancashire's economy.”