2009 is set to be the year that Shakespeare Country is put firmly on the map as a key destination for business visits and events with the launch of the Shakespeare Country Conference Bureau.

Following the decision at the end of 2008 to launch an independent identity for business tourism in Shakespeare Country, a whole host of activities are underway to ensure the events industry are aware of all the area has to offer for conferences, meetings and special events.

The Shakespeare Country Conference Bureau is a dedicated team of advisors offering a range of free services to support conference and event organisers looking to hold an event in the area, which represents Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, Royal Leamington Spa, Kenilworth and the neighbouring Cotswolds.

A dedicated microsite www.shakespeare-country.co.uk/conference was launched in February offering a venue and supplier search facility, online enquiry form and all the latest news and special offers available to event organisers in the area.

The team will be celebrating the launch of the Conference Bureau and new website at International Confex, Earl�s Court, London from 24-26th February on stand B760 with a �Celebration and Party� theme including party bags, games and pre-party pampering treatments courtesy of Ardencote Spa.

An official launch for the Shakespeare Country Conference Bureau will take place on 23rd April 2009 with the �Shakespeare Country Celebratory Showcase�. This one day event will take place on Shakespeare�s Birthday and will offer conference and event organisers the opportunity to view the destination and experience for themselves how it could benefit their events. The itinerary for the day includes a networking exhibition at a key Stratford hotel, celebratory lunch at a stunning stately home, tours of the area and other venues and will conclude with a traditional English afternoon tea party!

Anyone who would like to attend this event or wishing to hear more about the Shakespeare Country Conference Bureau should call 0844 477 8379, email conference@shakespeare-country.co.uk or visit www.shakespeare-country.co.uk/conference.

For more information visit the official website: www.shakespeare-country.co.uk/conference or call Shakespeare Country Conference Bureau on 0844 477 8379.

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Notes to editors Shakespeare Country is a private/public tourism partnership responsible for marketing and visitor services within �Shakespeare Country�, one of the leading tourist destinations in England, which spans the administrative districts of Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick. For more information please visit the official website at www.shakespeare-country.co.uk

For more information, interviews and photo opportunities please contact:

Si�n Thompson, Conference Sales Executive, Shakespeare Country on 01926 486206 or sian@shakespeare-country.co.uk