TOURISTS will soon be able to see the sights and attractions of Ramsbottom - without actually visiting the area!

For a local businessman has set up the UK's first fully interactive web site to promote a town.

And Mr Tony Tickle hopes the site, which can be accessed via the Internet from early in the new year, will boost tourism in Ramsbottom as well as showing ex-pats how their town has changed.

Mr Tickle, who runs his own design, PR and marketing firm in Summerseat, says web site users will be able to look around Ramsbottom, visit different shops and pubs and pause for as long as they like to admire the views.

The web site, which is available at ww.virtualramsbottom.co.uk, will feature a tourist guide, have links to local business and, as the site grows, a what's on diary and information points such as late opening of chemists.

Mr Tickle said: "It is intended to be a focal point of information for residents and visitors alike."

He added: "I want it to really encourage people to visit the town.

"I'm trying to put Ramsbottom on the map."

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