A NEW campaign to champion Hampshire’s ‘postcard villages’ and rural heritage was launched this week.

In a bid to bring more visitors to Hampshire, the county council unveiled their Rural Escapes publicity drive.

The Government-funded campaign will showcase the county’s countryside highlights and national parks.

What Hampshire can offer will be put online and will feature deals on bed and breakfast stays, heritage sites, and country parks.

Councillor Ray Ellis, executive member for economic development and rural affairs said campaign aims to drive up the number of people exploring the countryside.

He said: "Tourism contributes almost £3 billion to Hampshire’s economy every year and employs more than 60,000 people, so is a vital element in our current and future prosperity.

"This new campaign gives us the opportunity to keep that momentum going and highlight the special attractions on offer in Hampshire."

Visit www.visit-hampshire.co.uk/rural-escapes for more information.