Ludlow hosts prestigious national convention this week

The prestigious Action for Market Towns (AMT) Annual National Convention is being hosted in Ludlow this week, providing a real boost for the local economy and helping to put the historic town firmly on the map.

A total of 170 delegates from all over the country will attend the conference today and tomorrow (Wednesday 12 October 2011 and Thursday 13 October 2011) at the Ludlow Assembly Rooms to hear about the town’s strong reputation for local produce and community involvement.

They will also hear about the role of market towns in the local economy as part of the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership, which covers Shropshire and Herefordshire.

The event, which is being supported by Shropshire Council, Ludlow Town Council and the Big Lottery Fund, will feature study tours around the town and topical workshops. 

Councillor Mike Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for economy and waste, said:

“This is a real coup for Ludlow, and for the county as a whole.  This prestigious event will provide a real boost for the local economy and enable us to showcase the town’s recent achievements.”

Martin Taylor-Smith, Shropshire councillor for Ludlow South, and Rosanna Taylor-Smith, Shropshire councillor for Ludlow North, said:

“We are really pleased that Ludlow will be welcoming so many delegates to this convention.

“It will give the whole town a chance to showcase the rich and varied independent shops, our national award-winning Ludlow Market, our many historic and listed buildings such as Ludlow Castle, St Laurence’s and the splendid open spaces including Whitcliffe Common, and Gallows Bank and Dinham Millennium Greens.

“We hope that visitors will sample the well-known culinary offerings at our Michelin-starred restaurant – Mr Underhills – as well as trying out some of our award winning local beers and ales.”