A NEW Visitor Information Point (VIP) has opened in a market town in the hopes of providing tourists and visitors with insider knowledge.

Based in Ulverston's Indoor Market Hall on New Market Street, the VIP will be staffed by a large group of volunteers from the Coronation Hall who will staff the desk from Thursday to Saturday, but may also open on Sunday's during big events such as the Dickensian festival.

The new service will include a screen showing everything that is going on in and around the town and links to the Choose Ulverston website.

It will also be stocked with leaflets and a collection of books on Ulverston, for browsing.

Deputy Town Mayor Cllr Dave Webster said he was pleased that the town council in conjunction with Ulverston Business Improvement District and Ulverston Community Enterprises had come together to make the VIP happen.

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"This central point will service the local community and visitors to the town with information and guidance on what is available in and around the town and what upcoming events are planned and when and where they are taking place,” he said.

Jan Hancock, chair of Ulverston BID, said “We have been looking for ways to bring back an information centre for both locals and tourists and we see this initiative as a significant way forward.

“Our project officer will also hold regular surgeries at the new information centre. We wish them every success in this venture and applaud the valuable volunteers who will make this service possible.”

Judy Pickthall, chair of Ulverston Community Enterprises, said: “I am very pleased that our indoor market can address a need which the town has felt for several years.

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“Visitors to Ulverston still seek local people to talk to about our town. This information point will also encourage more people to visit and discover the variety and quality of our market stalls.”