Visitor statistics welcomed

AURIGNY'S decision to collate visitor statistics has been welcomed.States member Paul Arditti recently approached the airline to ask if it would help collect information about people flying from the island.

Paul (pictured) is particularly interested in finding out exactly how many genuine tourists Alderney attracts.

'I am pleased that Aurigny has agreed to assist Alderney in gathering much-needed data about visitors to the island. We have been struggling with unreliable anecdotal information, theory and guesswork for too long,' he said.

'The spotlight is now on Aurigny to deliver the necessary improvements to our two lifeline services and this is a very positive, valuable and much appreciated start.'

The airline will ask passengers three questions at check-in that will ascertain the purpose of their visit, the type of accommodation they stayed in and their final destination. The cards will not contain passengers' names.

States chief executive Roy Burke said the information would help the island formulate a promotion strategy.

'The more we know about people who come to Alderney, the more we can direct our marketing strategy in the right direction.

'If there is an increase in the number of business people visiting, we can act accordingly; likewise if the number of holidaymakers goes up.'

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Two men have declared their intentions to stand in the upcoming Presidential election.

Bill Simpson and Stuart Trought look set to go head-to-head for the position, which will soon be vacated by Sir Norman Browse.

Retired wing commander, businessman and author Bill moved to the island in 2004. He enjoyed a distinguished RAF career before turning his hand to writing in 2002. His first book, The Prince - about an American fighter pilot turned diplomat - received forewords from both Baroness Thatcher and Nelson Mandela. It also involved Bill interviewing former US Presidents Jimmy Carter, George Bush and Bill Clinton, as well as former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.

'I'm especially heartened by the support I have received from the very many people who have encouraged me to stand for President, including two highly respected members of our community who have agreed to propose and second me,' said Bill, who was awarded an MBE in 1980 and OBE in 1988. 'It is their confidence in my ability to perform this important role that has persuaded me to declare myself as a candidate.'

Stuart is well-known locally for running a charter angling business and being the former chief executive officer of Alderney Renewable Energy. He previously spent 18 years at sea, starting with Shell. He also worked for the national oil companies of Kuwait and Abu Dhabi.

'I'm definitely going to stand,' he said. 'I've been approached by a number of people for some time.'

Sir Norman is expected to announce his retirement date soon, meaning an election could take place in the summer.