Virtual Ramsbottom web site to be UK first

For a local businessman has set up the UK's first fully interactive web site to promote a town.

And Mr Tony Tickle hopes the site, which can be accessed via the Internet from next year, will boost tourism in Ramsbottom as well as showing ex-pats around the world how their town has changed.

Mr Tickle, who runs his own design, PR and marketing firm in Summerseat, says web site users will be able to look around Ramsbottom, visit different shops and pubs and pause for as long as they like to admire the views.

He explained: "This is not done with video, nor is it animation.

"QuickTime VR (Virtual Reality) is a compelling technology for delivering interactive objects and panorama movies.

"It uses actual photographic images to create a 'real' 360 degree environment."

The web site, ww.virtualramsbottom.co.uk will feature a tourist guide, have links to

local business and, as the site grows, a what's on diary and information points such as late opening of chemists.

Tony continued: "In fact, it is intended to be a focal point of information for residents and visitors alike."

His Tickle Group business, established 16 years ago, is at the forefront of new technology and provides web and e-commerce services to clients.

Commenting on Virtual Ramsbottom, Tony went on: "I want it to really encourage people to visit the town.

"It's part of a tourism initiative although I'm doing it as a personal thing. I'm trying to put Ramsbottom on the map.

"First and foremost, this is to promote the town. And it will also be useful for ex-pats who can call up the site from anywhere in the world.

"I want it to become a focal point for people to go to - it is very exciting."

Earlier this year, the Tickle Group were the first web design company to put a web camera in a children's nursery in the UK so parents could 'see' their child throughout the day.

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