Michael Fabricant says: "Sadly it doesn’t surprise me that Lichfield is one of the least visited cities in the UK alongside such gems as St David’s while London and Stratford are the most visited. But while St David’s is far off the beaten track, Lichfield has no excuse: it is close to the motorway system and is at the very heart of Britain."

The survey was conducted by hotel company Travelodge. Travelodge spokeswoman Shakila Ahmed said: "We live in a world of misconceptions, and often don’t realise it. A significant proportion of the images of cities we have in our minds may be biased, out of date and not in tune with reality."

Patricia Yates, director of strategy and communications from the VisitBritain organisation, said; "This report has highlighted that Britons need to reacquaint themselves with some of the UK’s great cities. It’s a shame that misconceptions and lack of the UK’s knowledge of what cities have to offer could stop British travellers from having a great weekend break."

Michael adds: "I plan to discuss this with Cllr David Smith, Leader of Lichfield District Council, to explore ways we can promote Lichfield better. Lichfield is known in the region, hence all the youngsters visiting ‘Lich Vegas’ for the night-life, but we need to promote the City as a tourist venue to national coach and other tour operators. With the pound weak against the Euro making holidays abroad more expensive, now’s the time to be promoting home destinations. We boast a beautiful cathedral, great pubs and restaurants, great strolls round the City, and the National Memorial Arboretum nearby.

"Lichfield is a great tourist destination. It’s just such a shame that we are the world’s best kept secret."

Michael has been doing his own bit to promote Lichfield’s night life. See http://www.michael.fabricant.mp.co.uk/news-00927.ihtml

The list of least visited towns and cities compiled by Travelodge is:

1. Bradford
2. Wakefield
3. Dundee
4. Sunderland
5. Newport
6. St David’s
7. Wells
8. Ely
9. Ripon
10. Lichfield