CASTLE Howard was illuminated in spectacular style to mark an international tourism seminar in York.

VisitBritain’s seminar, which was held at York Racecourse, focused on how Yorkshire could attract an even greater share of the country’s growing inbound tourism market of £22 billion.

It was followed by a reception and dinner at Castle Howard, the stately home near Malton, which was attended by 56 influential overseas buyers from China, France, Belgium, Denmark and Poland.

Tourism businesses attending the seminar included attractions, transport operators, accommodation providers and retailers, who heard from VisitBritain chief executive Sally Balcombe and Holger Lenz, VisitBritain’s manager for central and southern Europe.

Ms Balcombe said: “This event for Yorkshire is a perfect example of how we continue to play a leading role in encouraging our visitors to explore the nations and regions. It will facilitate further business deals to bring additional international visitors to destinations in the region.”

Kate McMullen, Head of Visit York said: “International tourism is high on the agenda for York, so we’re delighted to take part in this opportunity to meet with key travel buyers from overseas.”