We will take one step forwards and two backwards if we allow VisitScotland to ignore the fact that we need a different marketing strategy from that of the Central Belt and the Highlands and Islands.

So, as a new south of Scotland brand, what can we do?

We need to ensure that VisitScotland clearly markets our south of Scotland brand as well as they have the Highlands and Islands brand over the years.

2009 sees the Homecoming, a celebration of Burns for Dumfries and Galloway and our Borders common riding history, linked with the common threads to both regions of golf, mountain biking, fishing and walking, sharing as we do the Southern Upland Way and the 7Stanes.

I see a great opportunity for both the Borders and Dumfries and Galloway to unite and work with each other to keep the holidaymakers in the south of Scotland. We must create those links and trails together.

Chris Walker

(Conservative Westminster candidate for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk)

Eildon