Tourist chiefs splash cash to lure visitors

Nov 20 2009 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

TOURISM bosses will spend more than £1m attracting visitors to Ayrshire this winter.

Chiefs at Visit Scotland are launching a massive campaign to promote the sites and sounds of the south west.

And they believe the Winter White campaign can boost flagging tourist numbers during the traditionally quieter months.

A number of top attractions across Ayrshire and Arran have been earmarked to lead the way.

Glenapp Castle, The Barn, Enterkine Country House, Daviot House, the Best Western Kinloch Hotel, Prestwick St Cuthbert Golf Club, and Craigdhu Farm Cottages, are all part of the campaign which focuses on white activities.

Jim Mather, Scotland’s minister for tourism, believes the investment is vital for the Ayrshire economy.

He said: “The magical combination of winter festivals, stunning seasonal scenery and homegrown Scottish traditions are all part of the innovative ways of attracting new visitors to Ayrshire and Arran to make it a must-visit destination.

“Tourism in Ayrshire and Arran is increasingly becoming all year round, and the Winter White campaign is a major contributor to the local tourism industry.

“As the year of Homecoming comes to an exciting finale over the St Andrew’s Day weekend, there is a whole host of exciting winter events for visitors to enjoy across the region.”

White experiences being promoted include earning your chef’s whites at Braehead Foods’ cook school, sampling white cheeses on Arran’s Scottish cheese trail, and enjoying a luxury golf trip at Turnberry Hotel.

It’s hoped the marketing drive will give the tourism business a much needed cash boost over Christmas.

The industry accounts for 11 per cent of employment in Ayrshire and Visit Scotland bosses believe its growth is critical to the area’s future.

The Winter White campaign, now in its fourth year, will boast accommodation offers, visitor attractions and food and drink promotions, as well as activity suggestions.