TWO major tourism guides were launched in Blackburn today in time for the summer season.

And staff at the Blackburn with Darwen marketing and tourism unit have been busy extolling the virtues of the borough to tourism agencies, businesses and organisations.

The annual Blackburn with Darwen Visitors Guide was launched alongside a new publication which concentrates on outdoor activities in and around the Borough.

The 64-page full colour Visitors Guide includes comprehensive information and listings on what to do, where to go and stay and good food and drink in the area. It provides a huge selection of enjoyable attractions and activities from Cathedral tours to ghost walks, major festivals and concerts, excellent cuisine, leisure shopping, historic sites, accommodation listings and much more.

'OUTDOORS: your guide to the great outdoors around Blackburn and Darwen' is an 84-page, colour publication which includes sections on walking, outdoor adventure activities, organised groups, clubs and societies and watersports such as sailing and windsurfing.

Horse riding, fishing, archery, orienteering and cycling are other areas covered in the book which also includes sections on where to stay and fine food and drink to be found in the countryside.

Copies of the two guides have been produced for distribution across the UK, to tourist information centres, museums, galleries, hotels, libraries, leisure centres, country parks and visitor centres.

They will also be available locally at Blackburn Tourist Information centre on Railway Road.