FOUR new food trails are to be launched in the hope of attracting more tourists to the region.

The trails are part of the Northern Lands project, which is costing about £750,000 and is expected to bring in an extra 30,000 visitors.

They cover the North Pennines and Northumberland Coast Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Northumberland National Park.

The routes will be sponsored by Ringtons, Northumbrian Water and The Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, and details will be announced in September, during British Food Fortnight.

Half the money tourists spend in County Durham and Northumberland goes on food and drink – a total of £430m in 2012.

Rachael Fletcher, marketing officer at The Bowes Museum, said: “The landscape and cultural heritage in and around the North Pennines and the Durham Dales has produced a number of local favourites such as Teesdale lamb and cheeses, and the well-publicised Barney Banger.

“We are proud to support this project to raise the profile of quality food and drink in this area and to support the inspirational producers and the businesses that showcase these local produce to visitors.”