MORE than 125,000 people have visited Tourist Information Centres in one Yorkshire Dales district so far this year - and now the local authority has said "thank you" to the volunteers who welcomed them.

We're really grateful to all those who support such a crucial part of the district's economy

Nicola Hood - Richmondshire District Council

Between January and October, a total of 70,501 visitors used the Richmond TIC in Friary Gardens, while a further 55,237 people visited Leyburn TIC in Railway Street. Visitors booked 864 beds through the centres in the same period. The two TICs are operated by Richmondshire District Council, with paid staff and unpaid volunteers.

As a "thank you" for all their hard work, volunteers from both TICs, together with Richmond volunteer town guides, were invited to a buffet at Swale House in Frenchgate, Richmond. They also attended a presentation at The Station to meet its operators and learn more about it.

They were joined by Councillor Melva Steckles, Leader of Richmondshire District Council, Mike Wood, Chairman of Richmondshire Museum, and Station Manager Paul Stamp.

Councillor Steckles thanked all the TIC and guided walk volunteers for their support. She also presented £682.09 - collected from donations made to the guided walk volunteers in 2007 - to their chosen charity, the Richmondshire Museum.

Nicola Hood, Head of Economic Development at Richmondshire District Council, said: "Our annual volunteer 'thank you' day is always a popular event, and a fantastic opportunity to recognise the hard work put in by the loyal and knowledgeable volunteers who work in Richmondshire's tourist industry.

"The latest studies suggest tourism activity in Richmondshire is worth £184,500,000, supporting more than 4,500 jobs in peak season. We're really grateful to all those who support such a crucial part of the district's economy."