HE LED the company behind some of Blackpool's greatest landmarks, stood up for changes to the gaming laws and become synonymous with the resort's bid to become a British Las Vegas.

But Leisure Parcs boss, Marc Etches, announced last week that he was leaving the firm - but his vision of a new future for the resort is still on the drawing board.

Mr Etches says he still wants to play a role in Blackpool's regeneration bid, but wants to pursue 'other opportunities.'

Leisure Parcs runs Blackpool Tower, the three piers and the Winter Gardens, but in recent years it has become synonymous with a bid to build a series of American-style resort casinos.

The company wants to create a 'Pharaoh's Palace' complex on the former central station site and, even more controversially, convert the Winter Gardens into a gaming palace.

Announcing his departure, Mr Etches said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the company and am proud of its achievements.

"Not least how Leisure Parcs has inspired Blackpool's regeneration ambitions based on the introduction of resort casinos.

"The future for Leisure Parcs remains very exciting but I have decided that this is the right time for me to explore new opportunities, although I intend that I will continue to be involved with Blackpool's regeneration effort."

David Burns, on behalf of the company, said: "The board of Leisure Parcs thanks Marc for his energy and efforts over the last six years which have helped to promote Blackpool as the obvious 21st century destination for resort casinos in the UK."

After graduating with a degree in Leisure Management from Leeds Polytechnic 20 year ago, Mr Etches has worked for firms such as Granada Plc, First Leisure, Themes International and Center Parcs.

Mr Etches is expected to remain with the company until Christmas.

"No announcement has yet been made on his replacement, although Craig Hemmings, son of billionaire tycoon and Leisure Parcs owner, Trevor Hemmings, has been mentioned as a possible successor.