The state of East Anglia's £4.2bn tourism industry leading up to the main holiday season will be gauged by a survey launched on July 1

Businesses across Norfolk and Suffolk are being invited to take part in the latest quarterly tourism business confidence monitor prepared by Larking Gowen Chartered Accountants on behalf of Visit Norfolk and Visit Suffolk.

In the past, up to 200 businesses have taken part in the survey intended to provide the industry with important data.

Tourism operators will be able to benchmark the results against Visit England data released around the same time.

The survey will touch upon everything from visitor numbers and customer spend to anticipated booking volumes and factors impacting upon business activity such as the weather.

In addressing topical issues, the Norfolk survey asks businesses for their thoughts on how the final dualling of the A11 between Fiveways Roundabout and Elveden will change perceptions of the county as being inaccessible and difficult to get to.

The Suffolk survey asks businesses for their thoughts on how Springwatch being based at Minsmere for three years will impact on their business.

Larking Gowen spokesman Nick Ward said: 'It is important to recognise that the survey doesn't just relate to accommodation and attractions but includes a wide range of businesses including retail shops, restaurants and sports and leisure businesses.'

The survey will close at midnight on Sunday July 20 with results to be released in early August.

To take part, go to www.tourismsurveys.co.uk/bcm. Previous results can also be viewed here.