BUSINESSES have clubbed together to produce a guide to Whitley Bay and Tynemouth which can now be found in ferries sailing to the Continent.

Whitley Bay and Tynemouth Guide 2009 has been created by Whitley Bay Chamber of Trade members Paul Irwin and Chris Wilson to promote the coastal strip, including Cullercoats and North Shields Fish Quay.

In an effort to attract more visitors, they have created a 104-page handbook with editorial from contributors including legendary TV and film writer Ian La Frenais, Lindisfarne's Ray Laidlaw and TV presenter and novelist Bob Langley.

A print run of 60,000 was planned, but thanks to the popularity of this year's guide the run will be increased to 80,000. Chamber of Trade chair Bill Midgley helped oversee delivery of the guides to the Princess of Norway ferry this week.

He said: “It's very good news when a company such as DFDS Seaways gets behind us in order to promote our wonderful coast. If we can make more visitors aware that we have something very special in our coastline here, then it will be good news for the area in general and will have a very positive effect on North Tyneside.” Mr Irwin said: “We're receiving emails daily from readers commenting on how entertained they have been by the content.”