PEOPLE are being encouraged to explore the district's attractions.

Visit Bradford is urging locals and visitors to see what the area has to offer.

The destination marketing organisation for Bradford Council said the district was "a paradise" for walkers, cyclists and those simply seeking to escape everyday stresses for a few hours.

It highlighted Bronte Country, which has seen a surge in visitors following the screening at Christmas of the BBC drama To Walk Invisible, about the lives of the famous Haworth family.

Ironically its plea comes as public consultation gets underway into the future of the council's tourism service, including controversial plans to close Ilkley Visitor Information Centre (VIC).

A review commissioned by the local authority is recommending that Bradford VIC should be retained, at the expense of the district's three others – Ilkley, Haworth and Saltaire.

Campaigners have vowed to fight the move.

Tourism manager, Patricia Tillotson, said: "We want to remind people of what Bradford has to offer and encourage them to visit the many wonderful places which form the district, taking in the stunning scenery along the way.

"Bradford district is such a beautiful place with so much to offer visitors.

"Whether you enjoy getting out and about exploring the great outdoors, or simply want to get fit in 2017 on a New Year health kick, there's something here for you."

The drive follows the announcement that Bradford has been selected as one of only six towns and cities to host the third stage of the Tour de Yorkshire cycle race, in April.

Riders will start at City Park in Bradford and follow a route including Ilkley, Addingham and Bolton Abbey, completing the 194.5km route at Sheffield.

Dubbed The Yorkshire Terrier, the stage features eight categorised climbs totalling more than 3,400m and two sprints.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council's executive member for environment, sport and culture, said: "We are very proud to have the opportunity to host the third stage of the Tour de Yorkshire and are confident that the event will provide a huge boost for the district's businesses."