Release Date 25 March 2013

The University of Reading was the venue as the leading players of the Berkshire hospitality industry launched a new trade association last week.

The Heart of Berkshire hospitality association was launched by University Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell at an event at the University's Museum for English Rural Life (MERL) on Thursday 21 March 2013.

The new association brings together key players in the hospitality sector in Reading and the surrounding region with the aim to promote the area as a prime location for business and individuals to meet, entertain, hold conferences, and stay.

While the region is already blessed with excellent transport links and outstanding conference and hospitality facilities, such as those at the University of Reading's award-winning campuses organised by Venue Reading, the association will work to bring an economic boost to the region through a co-ordinated hospitality strategy.

Stephane Weit, from Hilton Reading, deputy chairman of the association, said: "This association is not only formed from hotels, but a variety of businesses, including educational establishments, a casino and a golf club. We are looking to expand to include other types of business, and would welcome new members.

"We will work closely together with drive, resilience and motivation to make a difference and help the community, town and local economy. Together, we can provide a wealth of experience within the hospitality sector."

The group is already using the talents within its member organisations. Attendees at Thursday's launch event enjoyed catering from Reading College catering students. The association's Heart of Berkshire logo has been designed by students at the University of Reading's Department of Typography, which was awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher Education in 2011.

ENDS

For more information for the media about the University of Reading please contact Pete Castle on 0118 378 7391 or p.castle@reading.ac.uk.

Notes to editors:

For more information about Venue Reading, and facilities available to hire and places to stay within the award-winning environment of the University of Reading's historic campuses, visit the Venue Reading website, email info@venuereading.com or telephone +44 (0)118 378 5657.

The University of Reading is ranked among the top 1% of universities in the world (THE World University Rankings 2012). Its campus environment has been voted by students as the best in the UK, and Whiteknights was again voted the best university campus - and one of the most popular green spaces anywhere in Britain - in the 2012 Green Flag awards.