A DELIGHTED businessman has pledged to improve tourism in Craven after entering negotiations to take over Skipton's Tourist Information Centre.

Robin Jackson, of the marketing and PR firm The Jackson Partnership, was thrilled when the Town Council voted unanimously to enter discussions about the transfer of management of the Sheep Street centre.

If all goes to plan his Keighley-based firm should take over the centre at the gateway to the Dales on April 1, 1999, by which time Robin hopes to have found a more suitable spot than the current first-floor site.

Bolstered by the recent news of a direct rail link from London to Skipton, Robin is excited about the future of tourism in the area.

He said: "I am highly delighted with this decision, which fits perfectly into an on-going programme of development we have in mind for our involvement in the tourism marketplace.

"As far as I know we are the first company of our type to take on board responsibility for running a TIC and this latest development in Skipton redefines our enthusiasm towards maximising opportunities for enhancing tourism in the region."

The Jackson Partnership has previously helped take forward development of the Bronte Country Tourism brand identity, and for the past three years has produced the Bronte Experience brochure.

Robin has his eye on several High Street locations for his new TIC and says he "intends to make it one of the flagship TICs in the UK".

"We regard the site as being perfect from a geographical point of view," he said.

"Not only will we be looking to increase tourism traffic, we will also be seeking to provide on-the-ground information and booking services for local residents, from theatre to coach tickets."

Mr Jackson said he was pleased that discussions with Skipton Town Council were "fruitful and positive".

He added: "We are delighted that they have the confidence in our ability to take forward this exciting initiative."

Robin Moule, secretary of Skipton's Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said: "We express support for the Town Council's efforts to ensure the continuing viability and future development of the Tourist Information Centre.

"I am pleased to have been able to play a small part in it."

The Jackson Partnership was established around 18 years ago, mainly serving the business to business sectors of the PR market.

Now it provides a range of marketing support services to UK and USA customers.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.