Tourism organisers wowed by Pennines visit

Coach tour organisers at Ellenroad Engine House

Sixteen coach tour organisers from Cheshire spent a morning in Milnrow and Littleborough as part of a fact-finding tour of the Borough. The visit was arranged as part of the Great Days Out Fair, a trade exhibition for travel and tourism professionals, and was co-ordinated by Rochdale Council's Tourism Officer, Tim Nuttall.

Led by local Blue Badge tourist guide Ann Thomas, the group started the morning at the historic Ellenroad Engine House steam museum in Milnrow followed by stops at Hollingworth Lake Country Park and Littleborough Coach House where lunch in the restaurant was provided.

Tim Nuttall said: "The tour was planned to tie in with Pennine Township's sponsorship of a stand at the Great Days Out Fair. The tour organisers were amazed that such great scenery and attractions were only a short drive away. The Borough has a fantastic mix of attractions and groups can pick and choose to make up their own itineraries to match their special interests for a half or full day trip. From the visitors' comments I'm hopeful that many of them will be arranging tours here later this year."