London Tourist Board and Convention Bureau (LTB) has launched its first ever Gay & Lesbian London guide.

The guide forms part of a major campaign by LTB to target 'the pink tourist pound'.

Diana James, head of marketing services, said: 'The gay and lesbian sector is potentially a huge market for London, not only from within the UK, but also from Europe and the States.

'We believe London is probably commercially the largest gay scene in Europe and we estimates the current value of the gay tourism market to the city at nearly $1bn per annum.'

The 100-page guide includes information on bars, clubs, events, attractions and gay-friendly accommodation.

It will be distributed free of charge. Details: www.visitlondon.com/gay