LONDON, Oct.19 (Xinhua) -- Mr. Bean lookalikes descended on central London on Thursday, bringing smiles to commuters and tourists during the launch of a new mobile game aimed at bringing more international visitors to the city.
More than 10 Mr. Bean, a figure made famous by comedian Rowan Atkinson and dressed in trademark tweed jacket, travelled on the Underground, went for a ride on the Coca Cola London Eye and took selfies with passers-by in Trafalgar Square.
The Beans were out on the streets to celebrate the launch of a new mobile game called Play London with Mr Bean, which helps visitors discover the city's tourist highlights and forms part of a new drive to attract more British and international visitors to the capital.
According to the latest figures from the British government, Chinese visits to London grew by 90 percent and spending increased by 71 percent between April-June this year compared to same period last year.
Andrew Cooke, acting CEO at London & Partners, which runs visitlondon.com, said: "Mr Bean's humour transcends language barriers and, as one of the world's best known Londoners, he is the perfect person to help encourage more Chinese and international visitors to come to the capital. Play London with Mr Bean is a new and innovative way for visitors to discover new experiences and make the most of their time in the city."
VisitLondon.com, Endemol Shine Group and Pointvoucher have worked together to develop the free to play mobile game which sees an animated Mr Bean visit London attractions. By spending time playing the game, players will be able to pick up vouchers which they can then cash in for discounts during their holiday in London, and also find great offers on locations around the city.
Tourism in London is booming with new figures released Thursday showing that London is welcoming record numbers of international travelers.
According to tourism industry analyst Forward Keys, the number of international travel agent bookings to London is up over 8 percent in 2017 compared to 2016, which was previously a record year.
Mr. Bean was produced by Tiger Aspect, part of Endemol Shine UK. The brand has seen phenomenal digital growth, currently averaging 300 million monthly online views.
