Norfolk Tourism's Travel Trade manual 2012, the 13th edition of the essential guide to group travel in the county, was yesterday launched at Wroxham Barns in the heart of the Broads.

The 2012 manual was launched with the help of a coach full of Grand UK Holidays customers en-route to the Thursford Christmas Spectacular.

The publication is packed with information on places to visit and stay, meal stops, guided tours and special events.

These include the international Norfolk & Norwich Festival in spring, the King's Lynn Festival and the Sandringham Flower Show in summer, followed by Great Yarmouth's Maritime and Out There Festivals and the EDP Bidwells Norfolk Food Festival in September.

Norwich based company The UK Holiday Group brings thousands of customers to Norfolk each year through its brands.

Sales director Harold Burke said: 'Norfolk has always been a prime destination and the company offers tours and events throughout the region with many based at its own property, the Nelson Hotel in Great Yarmouth, and other Norfolk locations such as Potters and Warner's.'

Ian Russell, director of Wroxham Barns, said: 'We have seen a renaissance in the quality and value of group business visits to our attraction. Groups are electing to stay in Norfolk for several days and have significant spending power.'

Barbara Greasley, chairman of Broads Tourism Forum and a director of Broads Tours, said: 'Group tours are very important for Broads tourism. We have good links with coach operators and groups go on our river cruises and take trips on the Bure Valley Railway and visit Wroxham Barns and Fairhaven Garden. We work closely with the operators to provide packages.'