VHEY Board prioritises collaboration and regional growth at May meeting
On May 21, 2025, the Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY) Advisory Board convened for its regular meeting to explore strategies for boosting regional tourism and strengthening the visitor economy.
Chair’s update: Building strong partnerships with the new Combined Authority and Mayor
Chair Chris Blacksell emphasised to the Board the importance of strong collaboration with the newly formed Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority and the recently elected Mayor, Luke Campbell.
In the lead-up to the election, the Chair met with all mayoral candidates, and VHEY hosted a highly successful hustings event at Beverley’s East Riding Theatre, in partnership with HEY Creative.
At the event, all candidates acknowledged the vital role the visitor economy plays in the region. VHEY is now focused on forging a constructive and proactive relationship with the new Mayor and Combined Authority to support and grow the sector.
Chris also expressed his sincere thanks to Councillor Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, and Councillor Anne Handley, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, for their continued support of VHEY in their respective roles.
Both the Chair and the wider Board recognise the essential contributions of these leaders in promoting Hull and East Yorkshire as a premier visitor destination.
Conference Champions programme gaining momentum
VHEY’s newly launched Conference Champions programme is showing promising early growth.
The initiative was approved by the Advisory Board at its March meeting, with the goal of attracting major conferences and events to Hull and East Yorkshire.
The campaign invites business professionals and industry leaders across various sectors to help bring events they attend elsewhere back to the region.
Since the official announcement, numerous individuals have signed up to become Conference Champions. A networking and planning meeting for members is now being scheduled for the autumn.
Humber Business Week
VHEY will be taking part in the upcoming Humber Business Week, running from Monday, June 2 to Friday, June 6.
The team will be hosting a drop-in session on Monday morning in the Legends Room at the MKM Stadium, immediately following the Future Humber Bondholder Breakfast.
This informal session offers delegates a chance to learn more about VHEY’s vital role in supporting over 1,700 businesses and more than 21,000 jobs across the region.
The 15th annual REYTAs
Plans are well underway for the 15th annual REYTAs – the premier regional tourism awards.
Now in the milestone year, the REYTAs continue to celebrate excellence across the Hull and East Yorkshire visitor economy.
The 2025 event promises to be the biggest and best yet, with exciting new categories and fresh opportunities to shine a spotlight on the region’s standout attractions, businesses and experiences.
More details will be revealed very soon.