It is hoped cruise liners could bring tourists to Cumbria

The head of Cumbria's tourist board has claimed major work will be needed if the county is going to welcome cruise ships.

Chris Collier made her comments after a study found that there was "considerable interest" among operators in coming to Cumbria.

The report was jointly commissioned by the tourist board and the Cumbria Inward Investment Agency.

In February, it was suggested that a scheme to allow cruise ships to use Barrow's port facilities could bring in tourist money.

Great potential

The Northwest Development Agency said cruise ship tourism could help revive part of Cumbria reeling from the effects of 700 job losses at the Barrow shipyard.

Ms Collier said cruise ships have already visited the county and steps are being made in Barrow to accommodate more.

She said: "I think they are looking to develop Barrow dock, not just for cruise liners, but cruise liners would most definitely benefit from that investment.

"Similarly, the report tells us there is great potential at Workington and also Whitehaven has some potential as well. They are third in the pecking order."