A TOWN which is promoted both nationally and globally for its tourist attractions has been voted one of England’s best-kept secrets.

A poll by coach company National Express, which set out to uncover "the nation’s hidden gems", placed Thirsk as fourth in the survey to recognise places "with quintessentially British charm".

The coach firm said it hoped the poll of 1,000 people would offer summer travel inspiration.

The town, which is dependent on its tourist economy, has been promoted and received growing numbers of visitors from around the world in recent years, particularly through the work of the veterinary museum, The World of James Herriot, the area's most visited attraction.

Liskeard, in Cornwall, Wells, in Somerset and Bakewell, in Derbyshire were topped the poll.

Tom Stables, managing director of National Express UK Coach, said: “People in the region will no doubt be well-acquainted with Thirsk as a great place to live and visit but we hope our list helps reveal its charms to people further afield.

"For many people Thirsk, with its picturesque riverside location and charming cobbled market place, truly is a hidden gem”.