A VISITOR guide published by the York-based Yorkshire Tourist Board was a huge success, according to independent research.

The publishers of the Yorkshire Visitor Guide 2001 claim it successfully attracted large numbers of tourists to the area.

Research found that 50 per cent of people who received a guide and replied to the survey visited Yorkshire.

The positive findings come despite the crippling effect of last year's foot and mouth crisis on the region's tourist economy.

Overall visitor numbers fell significantly as people stayed away from infected rural areas.

Research, conducted by York-based firm Questions Answered, found that:

Despite foot and mouth, those who made inquiries took the same number of trips as the previous year.

The average spend per party increased by 12 per cent to £553.21.

Visits to the coast doubled from 16 per cent in 2000 to 32 per cent in 2001.

13 per cent of visitors came for the first time.

Yorkshire Tourist Board's Joanna Royle said she was pleased with the excellent result of the carefully targeted marketing campaign.

She said: "2001 marked the worst year in tourism history.

"Nevertheless, the research suggests that once again the Yorkshire Visitor Guide has been successful in promoting the region and converting inquirers into real visitors."

A £1.5 million joint campaign between Yorkshire Tourist Board and Yorkshire Forward, titled Britain's Biggest Break, was launched last year.

Tourism bosses believe the campaign has rekindled interest in the region as a tourist destination.

The 2002 guide has proved so popular that this year's print run of 200,000 copies has already been increased by 50 per cent.

Updated: 10:27 Saturday, April 27, 2002