MAJOR players in Lancashire's tourism industry are heading for Blackburn for a key conference.

The aim of the June 20 event is show local hotels, tourist attractions and venues such as mill shops how to profit from attracting new business from coach and day trip organisers. "Profiting from group business is the first step in a major move by the Lancashire Tourism Partnership to develop an effective group travel marketing strategy for the tourism industry," said Anthony Goldstone, chairman of the LTP.

"If businesses are serious about increasing tourism they should not miss this unique opportunity to benefit from their insight and experience." Speakers at the event, being staged at Ewood Park, include Colin Taylor, marketing manager of East Lancashire Partnership and Nick Brooks-Sykes, head of marketing of the North West Tourst Board.

The Lancashire Tourism Partnership is made up of more than 30 public, private and voluntary organisations with an interest in the industry.