Midleton tourist office re-opens and is seeking volunteers

A storm-damaged tourist office, beside a world-renowned whiskey distillery in Co Cork, has re-opened.

And it’s looking for volunteers.

The Midleton tourist office is run on a voluntary basis under a community-based support group, SECAD.

The tourism office is at Distillery Walk at the entrance to the famed Jameson Heritage Centre.

However, the local tourism office strongly promotes Midleton and all of east Cork. It was extensively damaged during last winter’s storms.

Midleton & Area Chamber president Séamus Cunningham said the recommenced visitor service is “largely thanks to the fantastic assistance from the Jameson centre management who totally refurbished the premises”.

The centre, open throughout the year, is run with a handful of voluntary workers. The office received almost 250,000 visitors last year.

“More volunteers are needed,” said Mr Cunningham. “We are trying to set up a rota where we could infuse the staff with people who have good local knowledge, like dealing with people, and have time to spare.”

Pointing out “the Ring of Cork is the wider initiative in the Cork region”, the chamber president said the business body is strongly aware of the need to highlight local services and attractions.

“We have successfully developed walking tours, tourist trails and so on, and the tourist office plays a major part in this approach.”

Mr Cunningham said the recruitment drive comes amidst “a general resurgence within the chamber” with membership numbers increasing and a strong drive to promote and develop industry and tourism in the area.

“Basically, we are trying to connect the dots and enhance the connection between businesses, tourism, local community bodies, and so on, to the benefit of all,” he said.

“We will shortly be locating the chamber’s offices to the rear of the tourist office.”

Since its re-opening, the centre has now designated an area to promote local businesses and services.

“You’d be amazed how many visitors want us to recommend the best place to buy particular goods or what restaurant or pub and other things to visit,” he said.

“Chamber members or other interested parties can drop in their business cards or leaflets and we have the options ready to hand.”

Anyone interested in assisting Midleton Tourist Office can contact business development manager Andrea Gunn at [phone].