THE economy of one of North Yorkshire's market towns could be boosted this year as a result of a promotional idea.

A comprehensive guide and map to Pickering has been published in which about 140 enterprises in the town, more than 90 per cent, have contributed.

About 100,000 copies are being distributed to tourist information centres, hotels, shops, and attractions over a wide area, with the aim of attracting more visitors to Pickering, as well as encouraging local residents to shop and use businesses there.

The venture has been funded by Pickering Town Council and the North Yorkshire Small Projects Fund, which each gave £1000, Yorkshire Tourist Board, and the town's traders.