TOURISM chiefs in York are joining with retailers to launch a 'Shop 'til you drop' campaign to build upon York's thriving tourist economy.

York Tourism Bureau has been in negotiations with retailers, hoping to gauge interest in a shopping campaign that could be active by late spring.

The scheme could involve distributing shopping vouchers, a York 'retail therapy' kit or a York 'Shop 'til you drop' kit from the Tourist Information Centre.

The initiative follows research from the First Stop York Partnership, revealing tourists spent more than £100 million on shopping in York during 2002.

In a pilot survey of 14 York retailers, 11 retailers said tourists accounted for more than 30 per cent of their turnover. More than half said they would consider supporting a York shopping campaign.

Craig Wilson, marketing manager for York Tourism Bureau, stressed the campaign was in its early stages, but was optimistic.

He said: "Tourists rated York's history, heritage, attractions and shopping as reasons for coming to York, and we wanted to build upon that.

"We're hoping it will be successful. We're hoping to get some rail companies involved as well, to encourage people to come into York by train."

Retailers interested in becoming involved with the 'Shop 'til you drop' campaign, should phone Craig Wilson on 01904 554456.

Updated: 09:57 Wednesday, March 12, 2003