AN East Lancashire attraction has been shortlisted for a top accolade in a prestigious tourist industry awards.

Rourke's Forge, Accrington Road, has been nominated for the Best Small Vistor Attraction of the Year Award.

The forge offers visitors an opportunity to watch live demonstrations of traditional blacksmithing methods a new visitor centre. Margaret Rourke said: "Being nominated is a great reward for all the hard work that has gone into the business and we are very proud to have been shortlisted for this award."

The winners in each category will go forward to the English Tourism Council's Excellence in England awards which will be held next year.