KAY HYDE, the new conference marketing manager for York Tourism Bureau, is confident about the quality of conference facilities and hospitality offered by the city.

But in the fierce competition from other cities she knows she must be able to back up the claims she makes for York.

"In the past we have only roughly gauged demand and supply. We need this concrete evidence to back up our feelings borne from personal observation and instinct.

Meanwhile Kay will be at the York Tourism Bureau stand at the Meetings and Incentive Travel Show in the National Hall, Olympia, on June 21 and 22.

Alongside her will be stand partners Castle Howard, the Barbican Centre and Eddie Brown Tours.

Kay said: "This is an exciting time for the development of conference and incentive business in York with many new products coming on line.

"For instance, stand by for the September opening of the £4 million world class events facility at the Royal Hotel, the first dedicated hotel conference hall to be constructed in the city."