AN initiative to boost tourism throughout Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds is to be launched on Thursday.

Gloucestershire Revealed is described as the "ultimate guide" to museums, galleries and heritage in the county.

The guide has its own website - www.gloucestershirerevealed.co.uk - which has full information about what's on offer at each venue, including facilities for the disabled and families with young children.

There is also an interactive map, which groups locations geographically with timings to assist visitors planning their schedule.

Gloucestershire Revealed leaflets are available at tourist information centres across the country, as well as libraries, post offices and other locations in Gloucestershire.

As the Cotswolds is the most popular holiday destination for foreign tourists visiting the UK after London, the new guide will also be promoted to overseas tour organisers.

Councillor Tony Hicks, Gloucestershire County Council cabinet member for adult services said: "Gloucestershire has a rich and varied heritage, which attracts many tourists year after year. Gloucestershire Revealed brings together all this information in one place, making it so much easier for visitors and residents to get the most out of our wonderful county."

Gloucestershire Revealed is supported by Cotswwold District Council, Stroud District Council, , Cheltenham Borough Council, Gloucester City Council and The Museums Libraries and Archives Council.

Among attractions featured in the guide is the Cotswold Motoring Museum in Bourton.