HOTELIERS in Blackpool are set to come face to face with the new force behind the resort's tourism trade... new HIT woman 28-year-old Alex Holt.

Alex, who lives in Cleveleys, has been appointed as the new development officer for Blackpool Council's Hoteliers into training (HIT) project which aims to bring tourism traders up to scratch on the business.

Funded partly by the Blackpool Challenge Partnership and the Lancashire Learning and Skills Council - HIT will provide information on a variety of subsidised courses available to hoteliers.

And hopes to boost tourism in the town by educating business-owners in areas such as basic food hygiene, first aid, marketing and PR, time management, customer care, computer skills and disability awareness.

Alex - who has spent the last six years working for Pendle and Wyre Council tourism departments - said: "Blackpool is undoubtedly a dynamic product.

"But, as part of the regeneration plans, the accommodation sector needs to identify the changing needs of the tourist and adapt to meet them.

"We are moving up a level in Blackpool and the town has lots of potential.

"But this will not happen overnight and through this project we can bring a lot of training to a lot of people - and that should really make a big difference."

Blackpool Challenge Partnership Manager Alan Cavill said: "This is great news for the town.

"We have managed to tap into international funding in order to improve quality, develop a sound future for businesses and begin turning Blackpool into a world class tourist destination."

For further information on the HIT project contact Alex on 477305.