Cruise ship brings tourism boost

A cruise liner is set to deliver a mini tourist boom to an Essex town when it arrives with 2,000 passengers later.

Holland America Lines' cruise ship Eurodam is calling at Harwich International Port to give those on board a chance to explore the area.

The port's owners, Hutchison Ports, said the visit would provide a "timely boost" for the north Essex economy.

Harwich Port is usually used as an embarkation or disembarkation point but wants more ships to call mid-journey.

Chris Lewis, Hutchison Ports' chief executive officer, said: "We have worked hard to attract a number of cruise line transit calls to Harwich in 2009.

"The passengers and crew will come ashore to spend money in local shops, restaurants and at local attractions."