Local tourist groups have expressed concern over Blackpool Council's decision to axe five senior management posts.

The news comes just days after the council announced it was planning to drop its bid for city status, just as applications closed for the next round of cities to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Executive director of tourism and regeneration, Helen France, is the highest-profile casualty of a jobs cull, designed to save more than £1.8m over four years. Ms France's portfolio transfers to Alan Cavill, who becomes assistant chief executive for regeneration, tourism and culture.