AN OXFORDSHIRE company is joining a new scheme to help boost tourism in the Cotswolds.

People who rent properties through Manor Cottages in Burford can now contribute to the Cotswolds Visitor Giving Scheme.

The money, donated by guests voluntarily through their bills, will go towards landscaping and environmental projects in the area of outstnading natural beauty, which includes parts of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and south Wariwckshire.

A similar scheme in the Lake District has raised more than £2m in the past 20 years.

Chris Grimes, Manor Cottages’ director, said the company would match any contribution made by guests.

Mr Grimes, 43, said: “With regards to tourism, the Cotswolds faces similar issues to any other popular UK destination – namely the public watching their spending which is linked closely to economic confidence.

“Additionally the UK weather can play a large part in decision making.

“Three poor summers on the bounce haven’t helped, but thankfully the 2013 summer has, so far, been a very good one.

“Irrespective of these two factors, it remains vital to the appeal of this area that the core offering of the Cotswolds, namely its physical appeal and heritage are protected.”

He added that if 60 per cent of the annual 5,000 bookings at the firm's cottages gave £1, through the match scheme, at least £6,000 would be raised each year.

Martin Lane, the director of the Cotswolds Conservation Board, which manages the AONB, said: “We’re looking forward to working with a wide range of businesses in the future to develop a long-term initiative that demonstrates how many bed and breakfasts, holiday cottages, hotels, visitor attractions and individuals visitors care about this much loved and special landscape.

“Our previous experience, and that from elsewhere, shows that many people are prepared to make a small contribution to support projects that help make a difference to the area.”