TWO years on from the disastrous effects of the foot-and-mouth crisis and the subsequent September 11 outrage, the New Forest's tourism industry is fearful of the consequences of the war with Iraq.

Speaking at the annual meeting of New Forest Tourism Association (NFTA), chairman Christine Ames warned that uncertainty was making life hard for firms.

She said: "After a more normal pattern of trading returned last year, now again we are seeing volatility in the marketplace and it is difficult for any business to evaluate the likely impact. However, it does appear that the domestic market may be stronger as a result and some members are reporting healthy advance bookings."

New Forest District Council's tourism officer, Anthony Climpson, said: "These continue to be difficult times and it is likely that, for the next year or so, business will continue to be uncertain."

In 2001, tourism businesses throughout the country were vociferous in criticising government support for the industry during foot-and-mouth, and it is hoped that they will soon benefit from a restructuring of national and regional support.

Mr Climpson is heavily involved in a major new £4.5m publicity campaign being launched by Visit Britain - the new body replacing the English Tourism Council and British Tourist Authority - to promote England to the English.

He told NFTA members: "This is without doubt a major opportunity for destinations such as ours to make an impact in the domestic marketplace."

At the meeting, Christine Ames was re-elected for a final third year of office as chairman, Sue Plaisted of Wiltshire House B&B took on the mantle of vice-chairman, Victoria Martin from Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway became marketing representative, and Martin Westwood from The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu, which hosted the annual meeting for the 14th year running, was elected to the association's management committee.

In her first year as NFTA's membership officer, Vanessa Ugatti has seen membership rise to 224, representing all types of business, from accommodation to attractions, retailers to restaurants, pubs and inns.