A tourism organisation in north Norfolk is urging businesses to join forces to shape the future of the tourist industry in the county.

The Tourism Business Survey has been launched by chartered accountants and business advisers Larking Gowen in partnership with Visit East Anglia and supported by organisations such as Norfolk and Suffolk Tourist Attractions (NSTA).

All businesses in the tourism and leisure sector including restaurants, hotels, tourist attractions as well as retailers in the tourism hotspots are being encouraged to participate in the independent survey.

Andrew Hird, chairman of Visit North Norfolk and chief executive of Woodlands Holiday Park is calling on businesses to get involved.

He said: 'The results of the Larking Gowen Survey help guide businesses on future plans and investments. The quality of the data as always depends on the volume of businesses taking part.

'I would implore all of my colleagues involved in this dynamic tourism industry to put 15 minutes to onside and complete this online survey.

'The outcome will help to guide you in the months ahead and at the very least give you 15 minutes to reflect on your own business performance.'

The survey gives participants the opportunity to gauge their own achievements. They can also receive a tailored report which analyses their yearly performance and gives them a valuable benchmarking planning tool.

Those who fill in the independent survey remain anonymous in the published report, which provides an annual snapshot of the tourism and leisure sector across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex.

It includes questions about the short and long term impact of last year's Brexit vote as well as other issues affecting the sector including accessibility for disabled visitors.

Norfolk's visitor economy has topped £3 billion for the first time and nationally the favorable exchange rate could see visitor spending increase by 8.1% (up to £24.1 billion) in 2017 from 2016.

The published survey provides statistical analysis as well as features good news stories about participating businesses, who have chosen to publicise their successes. Businesses can participate in the survey at www.tourismsurveys.co.ukuntil February 26.