PRESTON could soon be attracting as many holidaymakers as Blackpool if leisure chiefs have their way.

Business people from all over the world will be told about its attractions at a series of conferences aimed at boosting tourism business in the town.

Visitors bring in more than £12m each year and last year tourism created 4,000 jobs for the town.

But the council wants to make Preston even more attractive to holiday makers.

Visitors to the International Conference Exhibition at Earl's Court last week were told about the excellent conference facilities at PNE's new West Stand development, the Guild Hall and the University of Central Lancashire.

The town's tourist attractions were also on show at the Great Days Out Fair in Wigan on Saturday. The fair, organised by the North West Tourist Board, was attended by travel companies and holiday organisers from around the country and featured the attractions of the Harris Museum and Art Gallery.

Councillor Peter Rankin, chairman of the Leisure Services committee, said: "Preston has a great deal to offer both the general visitor and conference organisers and I am delighted that we are exhibiting at these shows to increase the potential of the town."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.