COMMUTERS on London’s Underground system are being targeted in a new “digital marketing” campaign for England’s north-west, including Liverpool and Chester.

It will see 17 central London Tube stops, including those for mainline railway stations and major cultural venues, emblazoned with images and messages to encourage commuters and visitors to take a short break in the region.

Throughout May, digital escalator panels, cross track projections and LCD poster sites will highlight some of the region’s attractions, including Tate Liverpool and Chester’s Roman heritage.

This is the first time the North-west has been promoted in this way, and is designed to cash in on the increasing trend to holiday at home.

The marketing campaign is led by the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) and supported by West Coast main line operator Virgin Trains.

Lorraine Rogers, chief executive of The Mersey Partnership tourist board, said: “By featuring in this digital domestic tourism campaign on the London Underground, Liverpool gains extra profile.

“Commuters using the Tube are a captive audience and travelling by rail between London and Liverpool has never been easier or faster.

“The range of cultural events, festivals and other new attractions lined up for 2009 and beyond enhances Liverpool’s status as Europe’s cultural capital and will attract large numbers of visitors via London.”