Wet forecast dampens outlook for tourist pass's first outing

Welcome to Yorkshire's chief executive, Gary Verity and his six-year-old daughter Lily unveiled the Yorkshire Pass at Thorp Perrow Arboretum in Bedale yesterday.

The list of 70 participating Yorkshire attractions ranges from world heritage sites such as Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal to iconic cathedrals and stately homes including York Minster and Castle Howard.

Tourism is worth 6.5bn in Yorkshire each year, and the industry in the region employs 250,000 workers. Official figures have revealed that Yorkshire receives 209 million visitors a year.

Mr Verity said: "The Yorkshire Pass gives people entry to some of the county's crown jewel attractions and the more it is used, the more savings are made, so people can explore more of Yorkshire for less.

"It is the first time anywhere in Britain that a regional pass has been introduced, so once again Yorkshire is leading the way in putting tourists first."

Those keen to enjoy those jewels this weekend are, however, advised to take raincoats as forecasters warned of miserable holiday weather although Sunday may see some sunny spells.

Easter in Yorkshire supplement inside.