A TOURISM agency previously criticised for its culture and expenses procedures has pledged to hold future board meetings in public.

Welcome to Yorkshire was the subject of two independent investigations last year after questions were raised about the behaviour of its former CEO Sir Gary Verity and expenses claims.

Both Mr Verity and the former chairman of the board, Ron McMillan, resigned and at the organisation’s first board meeting of 2020 last week it was confirmed future meetings will be held in public.

It was also decided that an additional three meetings will be held around the county each year to increase opportunities for more conversations between Welcome to Yorkshire, its members and the wider public.

Chairman Peter Box said: “As I promised when I became chair, it has now been approved that our future Board meetings will take place in public to increase accountability and transparency.

“I also want to make sure we get out and meet both members and the public more often; so we are planning roadshow-style board meetings in all four corners of the county so that people can air their views and make sure their thoughts and ideas are heard.”

It has also been confirmed that Jas Athwal, will be the new deputy chair of the board.

Mr Athwal is a successful entrepreneur and prominent figure in the Asian business community who has worked as a business ambassador, consultant and advisor.