Abingdon is at the centre of a tourism boom.

A buoyant economy and flourishing tourism market has led to a huge increase in people visiting the area, according to the Vale of White Horse District Council and Southern Tourist Board.

Anthea Kemp, who has produced a range of leaflets promoting the Vale, said: "Many visitors are discovering the Vale's delightful field path walks and long stretches of the Thames Path and Ridgeway.

"The closeness of London and Oxford is encouraging the walkers, short-break holidaymakers and rail cycling weekenders into the area to enjoy the wealth of country pursuits available."

The increase in visitor numbers has led to a shortage in bed and breakfast rooms in the Vale. Free drop-in seminars are being offered by the Vale of White Horse District Council and the tourist board to encourage more people to offer accommodation.

The sessions will be held in the Old Town Hall, Faringdon on Wednesday, November 1, between 2pm and 5pm; The Abbey Room, Abingdon Guildhall on Thursday, November 2, from 10am to 12.30pm, and Wantage Civic Hall on Thursday, November 2, from 2pm to 5pm.

Anyone interested in attending should call 01235 540345.