LANCASTER and Morecambe are be-coming ever more popular with tourists.

There was a massive rise in the number of visitors choosing to stay in the district last year, new figures reveal.

According to Lancaster City Council's tourist service, accommo-dation bookings were up by 28 per cent on previous figures.

Despite what many classed as a poor year weather-wise, the total bed nights booked in hotels and guest houses in the district via the Tourist Information Centre in 2002 were up by almost 600.

And what's more, the demand for self-catering accommo-dation saw an increase of an amazing 115 per cent.

Bookings made by large groups - from Henley Rugby Players to cyclists - were also popular, with extra income being made by booking groups from as far afield as Japan.

Cllr James Airey, cabinet member with responsibility for re-generation, says: "Staff worked really hard throughout 2002 to convert enquiries into firm bookings.

"Morecambe Tourist Information Centre is now helping to distribute more than 100,000 holiday guides across the country and staff will continue to convert as many enquiries as possible into firm bookings."

January 16, 2003 09:00