TOURISM chiefs in Hyndburn are targeting Ireland and Scotland to attract more visitors to the borough.

The announcement comes as the latest tourism figures show the industry in Hyndburn is worth more £9 million and the number of tourism jobs have risen.

Lancashire's Hill Country Tourism Consortium - set up by local authorities in East Lancashire to promote tourism M-m will be visiting exhibitions throughout the UK in early 1998.

The grand promotion tour takes in Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham and London.

Tourism development officer for Hyndburn Council and the consortium Fiona Leinster-Evans, said: "The combination of wild moors, stone-built towns and money-saving markets and factory shops is unbeatable.

"There's a huge range of things to do and see, making Lancashire's Hill Country the ideal destination for a short break.

"Hence the 1998 exhibition programme, which is aimed at reaching visitors who are looking to spend a weekend or longer enjoying a warm Lancashire welcome."

A North West Tourist Board report has shown that 29 new full-time, part-time and casual jobs were created in tourism in Hyndburn during the last financial year.

The borough employs more than 1,600 people in the industry.

Coun Ian Ormerod, chairman of Hyndburn Council's leisure committee and the consortium, said: "Hyndburn is committed to tourism and Lancashire's Hill Country Tourism Consortium.

"There is a great opportunity to build this sector, creating jobs and improving facilities for local people."

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