IN the wake of recent floods, a business at the heart of the tourism industry has called on Southerners to ‘Love the North’.

Holiday lettings agency Cottages in Northumberland, which rents out more than 160 properties in the couinty, has joined forces with tourism chiefs to let visitors know the region is still open for business.

Cottages in Northumberland has given its backing ‘Love the North’; a VisitEngland campaign aimed at promoting flood destinations in Yorkshire, Cumbria, Lancashire and parts of Northumberland.

The agency’s director of operations, Angela Mazingham, said: “It’s vital we let people know that, although the floods caused extensive damage in places, Northumberland was lucky enough not to be badly affected in the majority of the county and is still one of the most beautiful, accessible and family friendly places in the UK to visit.

“The county has held a growing appeal in recent years as visitors from the South look for less crowded and expensive alternatives to Devon and Cornwall.

“While towns like Corbridge and Morpeth were undeniably badly hit by the floods, they are steadily getting back on their feet and need visitor support more than ever.”

Jude Leitch, director of Northumberland Tourism, said: “While the recent floods were devastating for those involved, Northumberland is very much ready to welcome visitors.

“As one of our key tourism businesses providing high-quality visitor accommodation and consistently great customer service, Cottages in Northumberland’s support for our ‘Love the North’ campaign is wonderful.

“We hope many others will follow their example and get behind the county.”

To show support for the ‘Love the North’ campaign, follow #LovetheNorth