A CAMPAIGN is being launched to attract tourists back to the countryside in the wake of the foot-and-mouth crisis.

County Durham was the fourth worst affected area in the county last year, but it is hoped that visitors could help its economic revival.

This weekend, Durham County Council, Discover Teesdale, district councils and private firms will host a familiarisation visit for coach and group operators in the west of the county, which bore the brunt of the epidemic.

The county council will be represented at the British Travel Trade Fair, at the NEC in Birmingham, next Wednesday and Thursday, with representatives of the Discover Teesdale initiative and Durham University.

The fair is the biggest of its kind in this country and is an international showcase for the British tourism industry.

The council's stand will feature copies of the 2002 County Durham Group Travel Guide, the Discover Teesdale Group Travel Information Pack, and details of Durham University's Durham Delights short break offer and university accommodation.

Councillor Brian Walker, the council cabinet member for tourism, said: "Tourism is vital for the continued prosperity of County Durham and plays an important part in the regeneration programme by supporting existing jobs and creating new employment opportunities.

"These two initiatives are very important in our efforts to make up the ground we lost last year and increase the number of visitors to the county in 2002."

The County Durham Group Travel Guide is available by ringing 0191-383 3698.

Copies of Discover Teesdale can be obtained by ringing (01833) 696256, and Durham University's travel trade information is available on 0191-374 7360.