A bit of personal news from me.

Unaccustomed as I am to making the story all about me rather than my clients, the time might just have come.

While not quite retiring yet, I am taking a much-needed career break from April. So, 31 March will see the end of News30, travel news roundups, website news stories and any other PR wittering that you have so graciously tolerated over the years.

After almost 45 years of putting pen to paper, or fingers to keyboard – in local journalism, in-house PR and for the last 20 years running my own business – I’m putting down my pen and shutting down the computer.

But before stepping away, I wanted to send heartfelt thanks to the many great people I’ve met and worked with over these past few decades.

To the destinations and attractions that I have been privileged to represent; to the journalists, bloggers and influencers; to the fellow PRs and tourism bodies who I’ve collaborated with; and to all those that I’ve shared many laughs with… as well as a few gripes!

I’m not sure what the future may hold, so borrowing, and adapting, a famous line you might recognise from the movies – I’ll be back (well, possibly, one day, maybe…).

In the meantime, keep on banging that drum for tourism, and all the very best for the future.

And finally….

While I amble into the sunset to drink cocktails on the veranda – or more likely peppermint tea in the garden – a quick word about my old pal Ian Weightman.

Ian headed off for a well-earned rest five-and-a-half years ago as IWMS became MHMS, although he remained a valued associate.

But he also works with some clients of his own, including the great city of Derby, the French Ardennes and (click bait alert) a true hidden UK gem.

In the best traditions of PR, you’ll get no more from me. Ian’s your man for that.

So, one last insider tip for you… if you’re looking for that next idea for a great travel story, you can do a lot worse than drop him a line.

You’ll find him at ian@ianweightman.co.uk as well as discover more on his Substack at https://weightmanpr.substack.com