A MAJOR drive to show off the region's attractions to tourists began yesterday.

The VisitEngland project aims to boost the flagging number of overseas tourists caused by the war with Iraq, as well as to showcase the region to people in the UK.

A six-week media campaign includes a national television advert that promotes Newcastle and Gateshead as an attractive weekend break destination.

The North-East launch took place at Chollerford, near Hadrian's Wall, Northumberland, overseen by Northumbria Tourist Board.

It is backed by regional development agencies One NorthEast and Yorkshire Forward. Tim Cantle-Jones, One NorthEast's board member for tourism, said: "Our support demonstrates the commitment the agency has made to tourism, and recognises its status as a major industry and economic driver in the North-East."