West Somerset has a population of nearly 35,000, around 10,000 of which live in Minehead. Its’ population is the smallest of Somerset’s five districts.

It’s estimated that 7,000 people work for around 1,100 West Somerset businesses.

The relatively low number of workers reflects the fact that some residents work outside the area. There are also a large number of retired people in the area.

Much of West Somerset is rural with a large area being part of Exmoor National Park. This means that agriculture, land-based industries and tourism are all important.

Tourist attractions include Tropiquaria and the West Somerset Railway. The new marina at Watchet also brings visitors to the area.

Butlins is the largest employer in West Somerset. Hotels, holiday parks and caravan parks also employ significant numbers of people. Around 30% of the local work force are involved in hotels and catering.

There is some manufacturing in West Somerset but not as much as elsewhere in the county. Notable employers include St Regis (paper making), Snazaroo (face paints) and D J Miles (teas and coffees).

The relatively high number of elderly people means that retirement and nursing homes are amongst the bigger employers.