THE Hereford Times has launched a campaign to highlight and promote the best of the county.

Our aim is to explain why it’s a great place in which to live, work and do business.

Here Assistant Editor Ian Morris explains why We’re Backing Herefordshire.

IT’S time to be positive about Herefordshire.
Sometimes it seems it is all too easy to be negative about the county.

And those of us who live here are often first in the queue to do the place down.

Of course, Herefordshire has its problems. But so does every county. Negativity breeds negativity– and we think it’s time to change that, hence the We’re Backing Herefordshire campaign.

It is a county I’ve been proud to call my home for the vast majority of my life and I believe there has never been a better time to live, work and do business here.

Herefordshire is packed with potential and is being transformed before our eyes.

There is, however, plenty of uncertainty following the result of the EU referendum.

Farming – such a crucial part of our economy – perhaps faces the biggest upheaval of all as the Government begins conversations with our European neighbours.

Changes to farm subsidies and possible restrictions on migrant workers are just two areas that will need to be closely monitored so the industry is not adversely affected.

As a county, Herefordshire voted for Brexit and there is a real danger that the economy will be talked down in the continuing debate following the referendum.

So today we start the process of talking Herefordshire up.

The recent backing for a Hereford university was one of the best pieces of news to be delivered in a long time.

The decision has the potential to ensure that many of our youngest – and most talented– remain near while also attracting outside talent to the region.

Likewise, the Cyber Security Centre will also bring millions in investment and high-paid jobs which will hopefully act as a springboard for other ventures based around the growing Hereford Enterprise Zone.

The Old Market shopping centre has already brought about a buzz to Hereford, especially on the weekend, while many independents have
sprung up, particularly within the food trade, since national chains set up shop where livestock was once traded.

And, of course, let’s not forget sport. Hereford FC secured back to back promotions while Hereford Racecourse is back open – and the first meetings have been very well supported.

Plus there is so much good going on in the market towns and villages – which often belie the stereotypical sleepy backwater image portrayed in the national media.

Tyrrells, Kingspan and Chase Distillery are just three of the many companies driving our economy and changing perceptions while the City of Culture bid will also showcase the county as a whole to a larger audience.

I’m delighted some of the county’s key organisations and businesses such as Central Roofing, Herefordshire Council and Hereford Care Homes have already signed up as official supporters of our campaign and I’m sure many more will follow.

Like any other employer, the Hereford Times wants to see the county flourish.

It is good for us, good for our staff, and good for the tens of thousands of people who read the HT in print and online every week.

And if we – and those supporting our campaign – do not shout about the county, then who will?

So please get involved in our campaign by telling us of your achievements and let us spread the word of this great place we are all lucky to call home.