Cruise ship tourism could help revive part of Cumbria reeling from the effects of 700 job losses.

Development bosses claim using Cumbria's west coast as a base for cruise vessels could bring millions of pounds into the county.

The plan follows jobs gloom at shipyards in Barrow.

But the Northwest Development Agency says a scheme to allow cruise ships to use the town's port facilities could bring in tourist pounds.

New ideas

The agency's chief executive, Mike Shields, says the area needs to be developed rather than subsidised if it is to stand any chance of recovering.

Barrow Task Force met on Monday to discuss the area's future and Mr Shields says new ideas need to be encouraged.

He said: "We are looking seriously at whether Barrow can get on the cruise ship circuit.

"This could provide a significant point of entry into Cumbria for people who are taking cruises.

"It is a rapidly expanding business and we see no reason why Cumbria should not benefit from this."

Barrow Borough Council leaders have already met with government ministers over a possible regeneration package for the area.

In January, defence giant BAE Systems announced 700 job losses in the town, and intends to move the building of a fleet of Type 45 destroyers from Cumbria to docks on the River Clyde.