TOURIST information centres in north Northumberland have been busier this year than last, despite the continuing economic downturn.

Between April and October, 113,512 people visited the Alnwick TIC, 40% up on the same period in 2010.

Craster TIC saw a 14% increase, Wooler a 20% rise and Seahouses a 4% increase, says the county council.

Officials say the reasons for the healthy figures include Wooler TIC moving into the more accessible Cheviot Centre, the sale of discounted tickets to Alnwick Castle and Gardens and Bamburgh Castle from Alnwick TIC and the continued popularity of coastal resorts in Northumberland, especially with day visitors, in 2011.