WORLD-class sporting events, music concerts and even a pigeon show helped attract £7m to the local economy.

The figure, which covers a 12-month period up to April this year, is 20 per cent up on the previous financial year's total.

Officials from EY Events, the organisation that promotes conferences and events in the East Riding, say the county's friendly character and value for money appeals to people.

Thirty events, including the National Cycle Race Championships in Beverley, and World Masters Darts in Bridlington, saw 50,000 overnight stays booked by visitors in the last 12 months.

Along with conferences arranged throughout the East Riding, the extra visitors have been a huge boost to local businesses during tough trading times.

According to Paul Roggeman, conference and events manager for East Riding Council, which runs EY Events, this year's figures are to get even better, with the current 32 events confirmed expected to bring in £10m to the local area.

The figure has been based on everything from money spent in local shops and restaurants by visitors, to overnight stays.

Mr Roggeman said: "The reason for the increase last year first of all is the six extra events which were held, but also because the visitor numbers have grown in the events which have been held on consecutive years.

"People also like it in the East Riding as it is friendly and good value for money.

"It has huge knock-on effects and is an advantage to the whole of the local area.

"People enjoy their time here and come back – it's always a good spin-off."

This year it is hoped there will be 35 events, though only 32 have been confirmed so far.

Mr Roggeman said: "With events such as the National Circuit Race Championships, the attendances are increasing each year. Thousands of people line the streets for the cycle race on Friday. It is part of a weekend of events, which brings people to Beverley from all over the area."

East Riding Council is a partner in the Mail's Bounce Back campaign, which aims to help the region recover from recession.