A NEW branded car will promote Northumbria's tourist attractions throughout the country.

Following Northumbria's recent successes in winning national awards, Northumbria Tourist Board is taking icons of the area on the road by sponsoring the vehicle.

It features images of landmarks and personalities, including the Angel of the North, the Millennium Bridge, Captain Cook and Durham Cathedral.

The car also promotes Northumbria Tourist Board's relaunched website at www.visitnorthumbria.com.

It will be loaded with leaflets and visit travel fairs and events.

Richard Spencer, director of marketing at the tourist board, said: "This is a great way to give people a visual taster of what we have to offer.

"Our ultimate goal is bringing people to the region, and in this instance we're starting off by taking Northumbria to them. As part of our continuing drive to find new and exciting ways to market the region, I'm sure it will be a big success."