Tourism charity appeals for a further 8000 gbp to save it from imminent closure

An appeal to save Tourism Concern (www.tourismconcern.org.uk) has raised £32,000, but a further £8,000 is needed to save the charity from closing down before Christmas.

Tourism Concern needs to raise £40,000 by the end of the year and a total of £100,000 to keep it afloat during 2010, during which time it will rethink its funding strategy to secure its long-term future.

The non-government, non-industry based charity fights exploitation in the travel industry and works with partners in more than 20 countries to ensure that tourism always benefits local people.

It claims to be the only organisation in Europe actively campaigning on tourism and human rights issues.

Head of Tourism Concern Tricia Barnett said she had been overwhelmed by messages of support from travel companies, even though the charity works to prevent those in the tourism industry from exploiting or at the very least sidelining locals in the interest of maximising their own profits.

The response from business has been a surprise she said. I always thought that we were considered to be an uncomfortable nuisance by the industry.

""What we have learnt from our crisis is that we are valued by many who are aware of the great gulf between the holiday experience and the experience of those living and working in the destinations - especially in poverty ridden environments.

""However, it's still a long way to go before we reach our targeted £100,000.""

People who want to support Tourism Concern and keep it going can contribute at www.justgiving.com/tourismconcern/donate/ or at www. /www.justgiving.com/tourismconcern/donate.

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