Video criticised for lack of representation

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A PROMOTIONAL video aimed at getting people to use Cheltenham’s shops, hotels and parks has been accused of featuring too many white people and not enough from the BAME community.

The piece for Marketing Cheltenham was put on Visitcheltenham website and social media.

The video showed people doing things they could not during the lockdown, such as getting a professional haircut, going out to eat and drink and staying in a hotel.

But there were only two non-white people in it, leading some people to suggest it had not fairly represented Cheltenham’s BAME community.

In a conversation on Twitter, one person said: “Representation matters. People of colour live here. People of colour visit here. We want everyone to feel welcomed. I felt this video was not representative of our town, or the rest of the country.”

Marketing Cheltenham is managed by Cheltenham Borough Council and works in partnership with the Cheltenham Business Improvement District - which commissioned the video. manager, David Jackson, said: “Feedback on the video has been overwhelmingly positive.

“As with all our marketing materials, we have tried to ensure that the video features a cross section of Cheltenham and its business community. However, we absolutely recognise the importance of taking an inclusive approach and of representing the diversity that exists in both our community and our audiences.

“We are committed to ensuring our marketing output continues to adhere to this and welcome all and any feedback that helps to refine our approach.”