A host of historically themed events are taking place in the heart of the Suffolk countryside this summer.Vintage coach tours, airfield open days, guided walks, musical events and re-enactments are all featured in packed programme of rural activities organised by Friars to Flyers, with the help of local historical groups, landowners and museums.

A host of historically themed events are taking place in the heart of the Suffolk countryside this summer.

Vintage coach tours, airfield open days, guided walks, musical events and re-enactments are all featured in packed programme of rural activities organised by Friars to Flyers, with the help of local historical groups, landowners and museums. They are detailed in a free leaflet, Explore the Past, which is launched this week.

The Friar to Flyers project, which promotes historical sites across east Suffolk, is funded by Suffolk County Council and the Rural Development Programme. It is hoped that with Explore the Past people will gain an understanding of their local history. The walks, such as the 'Friars Footsteps', will be guided by local experts.

Bryony Rudkin, member of Suffolk County Council's executive committee, said: "These events show the Suffolk countryside is well and truly open this year. It is important that we attract visitors back following last year's foot-and-mouth fears and I hope we will see record numbers of people enjoying the attractions on offer."

Last year's programme of events promoted by Friars to Flyers generated over additional 4000 visitors to East Suffolk. This created about £54,000 spent indirectly by visitors in local shops, pubs and B&Bs. The Friars to Flyers project aims to increase the number of people attending events in 2002.

The Explore the Past leaflet is available from Tourist Information Centres or tel: 01473 583179 or e-mail: friarstoflyers@et.suffolkcc.gov.uk

Weblink: www.suffolkcc.gov.uk

www.friarstoflyers.gov.uk