Staff coached on how to sell city in advance of 2013

Staff members who successfully completed WorldHost and Ambassador training programmes were presented with certificates by the Mayor.

The training was provided in preparation for the city being in the global spotlight as it approaches 2013 and the City of Culture.

The training encourages those involved in the tourism, hospitality, leisure and transport how best to showcase the city and to build repeat business by providing a warm welcome and impeccable customer service to visitors.

Mayor Campbell said: “The City of Culture year presents us with so many opportunities to showcase our city and tell our new story and I am delighted that front-line staff working at our key services have been provided with the skills and techniques available to ensure they are briefed in terms of our cultural and tourism offering and key city messages,” he said.

Margaret Edwards, education officer with the Council’s Heritage and Museum Service, who delivered the training, said WorldHost training was provided with the support of the NITB, the sector skills council People 1st and the Department for Employment and Learning to ensure cities like Derry are prepared for hosting major events.