With 2012 looming is enough being done to ensure that visitors will not get the wrong impression of Britain? We may not be able to reinivent a service culture in the limited time available but we can all do as much as possible to direct visitors to accommodation that has been inspected and given an official rating by either the AA or the appropriate tourist board.

If nothing else should there not be a major campaign advising visitors of the systems in place and that the best way to stay in Britain is in assessed and accredited accommodation?