BUSINESSES in a national park are being offered the opportunity to help visitors get the best out of the area by joining a network of information points.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is giving its information points a revamp, and is urging local shops, pubs and cafes to join in the promotion push.

Park information points provide information to visitors, including things to see and do, access in and around the Dales and projects and issues affecting the Park.

The scheme has been successful in the past, but the authority, now in its 50th year, wants to inject new enthusiasm and resources into the project.

Kathryn Storey, sustainable tourism officer with the authority, said: "Many businesses in the Yorkshire Dales are already providing a vital local service by providing information on the national park to visitors.

"Now they have the chance to do so as part of a co-ordinated network with regular and dedicated support from park staff. This is a great opportunity for them to be able to promote the area and their business, while being officially recognised as part of a network where visitors can go for information on the Yorkshire Dales national park."

Successful applicants will receive equipment and fittings to enable them to provide the information service without losing valuable business space.

Interested businesses should call (01756) 752748. The deadline for completed applications is April 7.