THE former mining communities of east Durham are preparing to make the most of a rich seam of potential income.

The District of Easington is hoping that the regeneration and private investment which has taken place will take the area forward into the region's growing tourism industry.

To launch the area into the limelight, the East Durham Heritage Coast Group is staging a Travel Showcase from July 16 to 18.

Commissioned by Easington District Council and co-ordinated by tourism specialists Steve Reed Tourism, the event could become the catalyst for an emerging tourism industry in the forgotten part of the region, said tourism officer Melanie Lowes.

"We are sure those taking part will be impressed with our extensive Christian heritage and by the attractiveness of the beautiful Durham Heritage Coast," she said.

The two-day event will feature about 40 tour operators from all over the country on a fact finding trip to local hotels, attractions and venues.

Those tourism VIPs will be able to sample a variety of sites including Dalton Park Shopping Outlet, Seaton Holme Discovery Centre, St Mary The Virgin Church and Dalden Tower in Dalton-le-Dale.

The visiting group will also be shown the 11-mile Durham Heritage Coast, including the recently regenerated Seaham Harbour and Crimdon seafront.

John Holmes, director of regeneration and tourism for One Northeast said: "It is important to support the efforts of Easington council and the emerging tourism industry in east Durham as they prepare to climb the first rung of the tourism ladder."