Virgin Trains offers fare discount to flood-hit northern areas to boost tourism

A train company is offering discounted fares to parts of northern England hit by flooding, in a bid to boost tourism.

Virgin Trains passengers can save 30% on advance tickets to destinations in Cumbria, Yorkshire, Lancashire and Northumberland from February 9.

The three-month promotion is in partnership with VisitEngland's #Openforbusiness initiative.

A number of travel firms are offering discounts, such as three nights for the price of two on accommodation in Cumbria via GoLakes.%VIRTUAL-ArticleSidebar-Commuting%

Business leaders in the county have previously said the area has been "catastrophically" affected by repeated flooding in recent weeks.

Discounted train tickets will be available to destinations such as Carlisle, Lancashire, Oxenholme and Penrith of the west coast route and Berwick-upon-Tweed, Doncaster, Leeds and York on the east coast.

The fares will be available three weeks before the date of travel.

Culture Secretary John Whittingdale said: "I very much welcome this initiative by Virgin Trains which will encourage even more people to visit the North and see its stunning countryside, vibrant cities and world-class attractions.

"The Government is actively supporting our tourism businesses as they recover from the recent floods and showing that the area is open for business."

VisitEngland's chief executive, Sally Balcombe, commented: "With half term and Easter on the horizon, there is no better time to give the Great British public a reason to book their short break or holiday, especially to areas recently affected by the adverse weather.

"Tourism is an essential part of local economies and incentives such as this travel offer will give these areas a much-needed boost."

Phil Whittingham, managing director at Virgin Trains, said the scheme demonstrates the company's commitment to the communities it serves.

He added: "We're really keen to get behind them by encouraging people to visit these fantastic counties."