CONSERVATIVES from both sides of the River Wye joined forces to promote tourism in Herefordshire and Gloucestershire with a meeting on board the ferry at Symonds Yat East.

Hereford's Tory parliamentary hopeful Virginia Taylor was joined by Councillor Margaret Harper, whose ward includes Symonds Yat Rock, and Mark Harper, Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate for the Forest of Dean.

Mrs Taylor said: "The River Wye is a huge asset for local tourism, but there is a lot of competition from other parts of the country.

"Tourism is increasingly important for the economic vitality of Herefordshire and I am happy to promote this unspoilt corner of England - which suffered so badly from foot and mouth - whenever the opportunity arises."