No sign of the large numbers of Chinese tourists yet but it can only be a matter of time. While the Council are considering strategic options I suggest that a useful first step would be to mention our Downton connection here
http://www.visitnewbury.org.uk/ We need to associate a tag line - I propose 'Downton Country' - with the name 'Newbury' so that the two become inextricably entwined in the mind of the prospective Chinese tourist. Let's replace the weak 'and surrounding area' with our new branding and add 'Donwnton Country' to all the Welcome to West Berkshire signs.
We must also big-up facilities in Newbury itself. E.g. our wide range of hostelries, restaurants and eating places (including, of course, a number of excellent Chinese takewaways!), our parks, shopping centres etc etc.
Also, I see that the 'Twinned with Downton' signs have been removed from the Highclere village signs. Don't know why (I expect there were ructions on the village council) but this gives us an excellent opportunity to twin Newbury/Ripon with Downton.
Edit: I see that visitbritain.com is already promoting Downton Country!
http://www.visitbritain.com/en/Things-to-d...wnton-Abbey.htm and that there is a Chinese (Mandarin?) version of the site
http://www.visitbritain.com/zh/CN/