A Liverpool delegation is set to visit Belfast to boost tourism trade between the two cities.

The team will visit the Northern Irish capital next week to coincide with the production of One Night in Istanbul at Belfast’s Grand Opera House. Building on the massive interest in football in the city, their aim is to encourage travel trade and journalists to promote city breaks to Liverpool.

The group is led by Marketing Liverpool, and includes partners focussing on Irish trade such as Liverpool FC, The Cavern Club, Titanic Hotel, Beatles Story, Liverpool ONE, Malmaison and Jurys Inn.

It comes after the launch of a new Flybe route between Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Belfast City earlier this year, meaning tourists can fly to and from the heart of Belfast in just 50 minutes.

Chris Brown, director of Marketing Liverpool, said:

“Belfast has always been a strong source of visitors to Liverpool, but that doesn’t mean we can rest on our laurels and consider it job done. With the new flight route, as well as existing flights and sea links, it’s so easy for people from Belfast to come over, even for a one-day visit. By harnessing the publicity around the production, we can ensure that the market is well aware of these links and proactively seek more Northern Irish visitors.”

Andrea Hayes, Flybe UK General Manager (North and ROI) said:

“On behalf of Flybe I am looking forward to welcoming the Marketing Liverpool delegation to Belfast. Flybe commenced a new, year round service from George Best Belfast City Airport to Liverpool John Lennon Airport back in February offering a choice of up to three flights a day.

“Northern Ireland has always had a close affiliation with Liverpool and the service has extensive multi-sector appeal – from business travellers who enjoy speedy city to city connections, to football fans who can access Anfield and Goodison Park. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Marketing Liverpool and hope the delegation has an enjoyable trip.”