MORE tourists are expected to visit Blackburn and Darwen after moves to make it easier for people to book overnight accommodation in the borough.

Blackburn with Darwen Council is to encourage accommodation providers in the area to take part in new quality standards to be operated jointly by the English Tourist Board, the AA and the RAC.

The aim is to end the confusion caused by each of the three organisations having their own codes and standards and symbols in guide books.

Bed and breakfast and guest house establishments joining the scheme will also be included in a new visitor guide for the borough with a 10 per cent commission fee payable to the Tourist Information Centre on any bookings taken there.

Establishments will be assessed once each year by an anonymous overnight visitor who will give a rating.

If three or more complaints are received by Blackburn with Darwen Council within any 12 month period, the establishment will not be eligible to participate in the following years' marketing and publishing activities.

The council's sport and leisure committee will discuss the plan on Wednesday, July 21.

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