COME to Scarborough is the message to premier Tony Blair.

The re-elected Prime Minister has promised to spend part of his summer holiday in Britain, and the borough council want him on the East Coast.

Councillor David Jeffels, portfolio holder for Tourism and Leisure, said the three resorts of Scarborough, Filey and Whitby offered everything Mr Blair would want from a family holiday.

"We have a fabulous coastline, spectacular countryside on the doorstep, clean bathing waters, excellent facilities for children and even a fine range of authentic Italian restaurants, if Mr Blair finds he is missing the charms of Tuscany," he said.

"It would be wonderful for Mr Blair and his family to see what we have achieved here and also get a flavour of what we are looking to achieve in the future, with the support of his Government.

"Former tourism minister Janet Anderson visited twice during her time in that post and was greatly impressed by what our coast has to offer - we are sure Mr Blair would be too.

"What better way could Mr Blair show his support for the British tourism industry than by visiting Britain's first resort?"

Heavy investment has taken place at Filey on the sea-front and in the town centre, while carnivals and exhibitions are taking place in Scarborough and Whitby over the summer.

Updated: 09:09 Friday, July 06, 2001