THE costly Costas’ loss is set to be the South Coast’s gain this summer with resorts pooling their resources to cash in on an expected surge in holidays at home.

As the credit crunch continues to bite and exchange rates make foreign holidays a more expensive option, Bournemouth and Poole are joining forces for the first time ever to promote the attractions of both destinations.

The recession-busting Back in Britain campaign will be launched in time for the Easter holidays, initially for three months and targeting potential holidaymakers in the Midlands and the London area.

Tourism chiefs in both towns are confident that the unique initiative will lure tens of thousands of visitors to the South Coast this summer.

Bruce Grant-Braham, chairman of Poole tourism management board, said: “The two towns complement each other perfectly.

“Historic Poole, with its upmarket hotels, restaurants, marinas and renowned Sandbanks peninsula, is a perfect contrast to family-orientated Bournemouth with its glorious beach, beautiful gardens and thriving cultural scene.

“The collapse of sterling’s value against both the euro and the dollar is forcing many people to rethink their holidays habits and together we aim to welcome them back.”

Alex Carter, chairman of Bournemouth tourism management board, shares his sentiments. He said: “Our two towns have long been British holiday favourites.

“Having enjoyed huge success individually, we are now joining forces to offer an even better, unrivalled range of holiday experiences at unbeatable prices.

“Between them Bournemouth and Poole attract some seven million visitors a year, many coming back time after time. With the credit crunch rekindling interest in holidays at home, we will be extending a joint welcome to many more holidaymakers this summer.”

l The United Nations World Tourism Organisation has forecast a two per cent drop in world-wide tourism this year, with Europe expected to suffer the worst.