30/07/12 Midsomer Murders creates tourism opportunities

SOUTH Oxfordshire?s growing popularity with Midsomer Murders fans means more chances to explore town and village locations used by the production company.

Four companies now offer a range of guided tours of the area and enquiries come from individuals and travel agents as far afield as the USA and Australia, while in Europe German and Swedish viewers keep the programme at the top of TV ratings.

The popular TV series shows in 220 countries worldwide, resulting in an international fan base keen to experience rural English life, including traditional pubs and cricket played on the village green.

South Oxfordshire District Council recognised the potential of Midsomer Murders as a tourist draw and created the website www.visitmidsomer.com to help fans find local locations. As well as details about the tour companies, there are two self-guide trails, books about the locations and free leaflets.

SOURCE: Press release