THE Ribble Valley, one of East Lancashire's most important tourist areas, is to continue with its membership of the North West Tourist Board.

Earlier this year the recreation and leisure committee decided to withdraw as part of a money-saving formula to help fund an additional member of staff at the Platform Gallery.

But the decision was slammed by members of Ribble Valley Tourism Association who confronted councillors during the public participation section of a council meeting last month.

A spokesman from the association told councillors: "We believe that membership of the North West Tourist Board is fundamental to the continuation and development of tourism in this area."

At the latest meting members heard that officers had negotiated a one-year extension to membership of the board at a reduced rate of £2,500.

This would give the council 12 months to examine options for more long term relationships with the NWTB.

The cash would have to be found from tourism budgets but the tourism association has suggested that they may be able to make a small contribution towards the fees.

Coun Ted Boden said: "We must never forget the NWTB's help and expertise when we were setting up this area as a tourist spot.

"If we cannot afford to pay for membership to the board, I am sure we will be feeling the draught very soon."

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