Paignton's Beverley Holidays director steps into leading UK tourism role

A Paignton holiday park director has been appointed to one of the UK tourism sector’s most senior roles.

Claire Flower, director of Beverley Holidays, has been elected national chair of the Holiday and Residential Parks Association (HARPA).

She was chosen by fellow members of the association, which represents around 3,000 holiday and residential park businesses across Britain.

In her new role, Claire will help spearhead an industry that generates £12.2 billion in visitor spending each year and supports more than 226,700 full-time jobs. She will also take on responsibilities including talks with national and regional governments on matters affecting the parks industry.

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Claire previously served as HARPA’s vice chair for the past two years and has held senior posts within a number of the association’s executive committees.

She is also an active member of HARPA’s Devon branch and a director of the English Riviera BID Company, where she acts as media spokesperson.

Beverley Holidays was established by Claire’s family, the Jeavons, more than 65 years ago on a small pocket of farmland overlooking the sea. Through continued investment, it has grown into one of Devon’s most highly acclaimed holiday parks, earning multiple awards for high standards and environmental responsibility.

Claire has also received Visit Devon’s annual award for Outstanding Contribution to Devon Tourism in recognition of her community engagement.

The park recently completed a £2 million-plus investment programme, including high-end holiday caravans with private hot tubs and upgrades to the outdoor pool and restaurant facilities.

Accommodation at Beverley Holidays includes holiday homes to hire and own, pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents, as well as newly introduced accessible caravans.

Claire said she is especially excited to be taking on the national chair role at what she described as a pivotal point in the association’s 75-year history.

In January, the British Holiday and Home Parks Association rebranded as HARPA.

“We now represent even more positively the modern and dynamic park businesses which our members operate, and helping them realise their ambitions for the future,” she said.

“HARPA will be championing the interests of our members with even greater vigour, further reinforcing the influence our association has among decision-makers.

“We will also be highlighting more strongly the breadth and diversity of today’s park businesses, and the many benefits they bring to local economies and communities.

“My family has been actively involved with our association for many decades, and I feel proud and privileged to be able to play a part in its continuing evolution.”