​TOURISM could outstrip manufacturing as a source of jobs in Cleethorpes within a decade, according to VisitBritain.

The national tourism agency said close to 10 per cent, or 3,200 jobs, in the area already rely on the industry, which is well above the national average.

And while this lags behind manufacturing – which accounts for about 18 per cent of local employment – it is predicted to see major growth between now and 2020.

Christopher Rodrigues, chairman of VisitBritain, said: “Tourism is one of the few industries that supports jobs across the country in our cities, seaside towns and rural areas, cannot be outsourced and has the potential to grow and support 250,000 more jobs with continued investment.

“Tourism is an industry in which Britain punches above its weight and is truly globally competitive – we are currently sixth in the world – but its benefits in income both to the treasury and to local communities and in shaping Britain’s image abroad as a place to do business are often taken for granted.”