The Prime Minister is due in Cumbria today, as the government announces a multi-million pound support package to boost tourism in the county. 

However the funding has been dismissed as "totally inadequate" by Cumbrian council leaders, who insist much more needs to be done.

The proposals include £2m towards fixing bridges, rebuilding walls and restoring footpaths across the iconic Lake District National Park.

About 180 apprentices have been identified by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) to help with the repairs.

The support package will also feature £1m in new funding to launch a marketing campaign, co-ordinated by VisitEngland, encouraging British families to spend their Easter break in the north of England. 

A new £4 million Holidays at Home are GREAT Campaign will also be funded, and advertising space worth £500,000 has been made available at Heathrow to promote flood-affected areas. 

It comes following a series of storms which have battered the north of the country, particularly Cumbria.

David Cameron will today visit Cumbria and Lancashire to witness first hand how government investment is already helping businesses get back on their feet. 

He said: “From York Minster to Honister Mine, Carlisle Castle to the Leeds Armories, the north has some of the most iconic tourist attractions the UK has to offer. 

"So it is absolutely right that we do everything we can to make sure these businesses feel supported and ready to receive visitors. 

“The measures we've announced today are an important step, showcasing the best the region’s tourist industry has to offer while helping one of its key attractions in the Lake District National Park get back on its feet.”

Reacting to the announcement, Councillor Stewart Young, leader of Cumbria County Council, said: “This money is nowhere enough to get Cumbria back on its feet following the floods. 

"With an estimated £500m of damage to our infrastructure, including £20m in the Lake District National Park alone, today’s funding announcement is totally inadequate.”

He added: "It is now eight weeks since the floods hit Cumbria and this has to be, and should be government’s, top priority.”