BOURNEMOUTH is enjoying a boom as people increasingly shun foreign climates to stay at home says a new survey.

The resort is one of the most popular destinations chosen by Brits who opt to holiday in the UK says Shearings Holidays. And visitor numbers to the town have increased by more than 17 per cent giving it the third highest rise in visitor bookings the survey of more than 140,000 holidaymakers found.

Weston-Super-Mare's visitor numbers grew by 18.82 per cent, with Ryde on the Isle of Wight in second place at 17.79 per cent.

Head of tourism in Bournemouth, Mark Smith, put Bournemouth's success down to events like the More Bus Bournemouth Air Festival, the summer family entertainment and the warm weather.

He said: "This week's Air Festival is a good example of the ways we are trying to make Bournemouth even better providing more choice and entertainment over the summer.

"Even though we are probably the market leader we are not content to sit back on that and are constantly wanting to improve what's on offer.

"It's the public and private sector working together which doesn't happen in every other place."

Another of Bournemouth's pulling points is its beach and nearby beauty spots like the New Forest which people can visit without having to spend much money he added.

Alison Gandolfi, chairman of Bournemouth Area Hospitality Association, said Bournemouth was ideal for people wanting to take short breaks.

She added: "People are definitely coming here and enjoying what's on offer. It is a very popular family destination. I would say people are coming for short breaks and are taking more short breaks.

"Anything that highlights the profile of this town is wonderful because it's a wonderful place to be. I think Bournemouth is working really hard in trying to promote its image."

Fiona Greenhalgh, head of sales and marketing for Shearings, said: "Our research shows that Bournemouth is among the biggest winners of this boom appearing in our top ten best performing destinations.

"The results are good news for the local economy and reassuring for businesses in Bournemouth."