RADIO 1 DJ Sara Cox is to host this year's Manchester Tourism Awards.

The Bolton-born star will present the prestigious event at Manchester Hilton Hotel next month.

Andrew Stokes, chief executive at Marketing Manchester, said: "We are delighted that Sara Cox will be presenting the 2007 Awards.

"Her entertaining personality and local Bolton roots will no doubt lead to a successful night."

Tourism within Greater Manchester is worth £3.92 billion a year. The Tourism Awards will celebrate the region's biggest successes, presenting gongs in 14 categories.

Peter Mearns, director of marketing and communications at the North West Development Agency, said: "Tourism is a major success story for the North-west and Greater Manchester plays a vital role in that success."

Former model Sara, aged 32, is no stranger to award ceremonies. The ex-Smithills and Canon Slade School pupil made the shortlist for Celebrity Mum of the Year but it was eventually won by model Katie Price (aka Jordan).