THE Yorkshire Event Centre in Harrogate contributes between £30m and £37m a year to the local economy, according to a recent report.

Built on the Great Yorkshire show ground, it attracts more than 1m visitors a year and supports the equivalent of between 581 and 712 full-time jobs.

The report by the Yorkshire Tourist Board says it plays a key role in the region's economic wellbeing.

"Since its formation in 1996, the Yorkshire Event Centre has gone from strength to strength, attracting prestigious international events as well as providing a venue for local businesses and family functions," said Heather Parry, managing director.

"We source as much of our requirements as locally as possible and are continually adding to our customer list. The figures show the importance of the Yorkshire Event Centre. Our success is good news for Harrogate and for the region."

The report says visitors to the centre are also likely to spend money elsewhere in the area on accommodation, entertainment, eating and drinking, buying goods and souvenirs, and on travel.

The facility has two purpose built centres.

Pavilions of Harrogate attracts events such as weddings, conferences, car launches and parties, while the purpose-built event halls are the setting for events as diverse as the Yorkshire International Business Convention and the Harrogate Spring and Autumn Flower Shows.

Sporting events, trade fairs and outdoor shows as well as conferences and exhibitions are featured throughout the year.

The business has grown by 11pc over the last 12 months. Only eight years ago, the Great Yorkshire Show was the only large event to be staged on the site; now there are events, conferences and exhibitions virtually every day of the year.