The first in a series of government progress reports on the regeneration of Blackpool says the resort needs to attract more tourists from higher social classes.

The report, published by the Government Office for the North West, makes the recommendation in order to 'diversify' the town's tourism.

Liz Meek, regional director of the Government Office for the North West said: "Blackpool has a special place in the nation's hearts. We want the town to keep that hold on our affection while equipping it for its future as 21st century resort."

Also among Meek's recommendations were extending the length of the holiday season and boosting transport.

The progress report was commissioned by Communities Secretary Hazel Blears to follow-up recommendations made by the Blackpool Task Force last year, set-up in the wake of the town's failed casino bid. The Task Force's findings in July 2007 claimed that "immediate and co-ordinated action, with strong Government support, is needed if Blackpool's problems are to be overcome."

The Task Force comprised representatives from the Government Office for the North West, as well as the North West Development Agency (NWDA), Blackpool Council, national regeneration agency English Partnerships and the urban regeneration company ReBlackpool.

ReBlackpool, the company tasked with delivering a regeneration masterplan for the resort, have recently appointed the chief executive of Manchester City Council, Sir Howard Bernstein as chairman.

"Tourism, economic development and transport work is being taken forward with urgency. A strong and experienced team is now in place at ReBlackpool," added Meek. "The regional agencies and central government are working together to deliver real change for the people of Blackpool."