John Duncan, of Fothergill Avenue, Ackworth, spent six weeks touring Australia to learn about how Britain’s 2012 Olympics will affect regional tourism in Yorkshire.

The 36-year-old manager of Leeds Visitor Centre is encouraging others to follow his lead and apply for a Winston Churchill Memorial Trust travelling fellowship.

Mr Duncan, now the vice-chairman of the trust’s East Pennines branch, said: “These incredible grants are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“Without it I would never have toured Australia and discovered valuable knowledge that will help me in my career as well as the community. Now I’m encouraging others to get involved and see what they could do.”

Mr Duncan travelled to Australia last September after winning a £5,500 grant from the trust, which helps people gain knowledge and experience in their chosen field.

He added: “I was interested in Britain’s Olympics and how we could see Yorkshire tourism getting a slice of the pie. During my stay I learned how Australia’s industry promoted and worked with their games across the whole country.

“Now I am working to see how regional sports, culture and tourism will benefit from the 2012 games.”

For more details about the travelling fellowship, visit www.wcmt.org.uk.