TRAVELLERS arriving at the UK's airports and major railway stations will soon be faced with billboards advertising the sights and sounds of Preston.

To attract new business and travellers to the city, pictures will be displayed in a poster campaign including locations like Manchester Airport and London Euston Station.

The scheme will point people in the direction of England's newest city as soon as they step off a plane or train.

Coun Veronica Afrin, cabinet member for community and leisure, said: "This is what city status is all about and we're using it to its full potential.

"This major campaign will grab attention and get key people to think about Preston as the switched on place to do business."

The campaign will be funded jointly by Preston City Council and English Partnership.

Pictures of Preston, from its main shopping streets and cafes, to the nearest motorway junction, will appear on the billboards.

The council hope that the campaign - Preston: England's Newest City - will attract business, investment and jobs.

Preston calendars have already been sent out to firms across Britain and a new website should be running next week.

The campaign was launched at Preston North End's Deepdale ground.

David Carr, area projects director (North) for English Partnerships, said: "English Partnerships is delighted to be supporting the 'Preston: England's Newest City' campaign, designed to help raise awareness of how much Preston has to offer."