Karate competition kicks off

The JKS Karate World Championships is one of a series of new events that have been secured for Edinburgh for 2011/12. The tournament will bring specialists in the sport to the Royal Highland Showground at Ingliston.

The event, taking place over two days in September, is expected to bring a "significant number" of competitors from abroad, as well as spectators, with the economic impact on the city rated at 1 million.

Other new events secured for Edinburgh include a Royal Mile display of classic pre-war Bentley cars in June, the Swamp Soccer World Cup, also in June, and Jungle City, where 120 animal sculptures will be spread around the city then sold at an auction to raise money for conservation charities.

Councillor Steve Cardownie, the city's festival and events champion, said: "Not only is it important that we attract established events back, but it is also important to refresh what we bring to the city, which helps bring in new visitors.

"A lot of the people who attend events will see how attractive the city is and decide to come back on holiday."

It emerged last month that, after a year of looking for a venue, Swamp Soccer organiser Stewart Miller and the city council finally managed to secure a location for the event next to the Jack Kane Centre.

But talks are also taking place about a more central venue for future years.

A meeting is also to take place between city council officials and national events body EventsScotland next month to consider which events to aim to bring to the city over the next two to five years.

Cllr Cardownie said: "We are always on the lookout both for prestigious events that have been to other cities and also new events that can make Edinburgh their home."

Ron Hewitt, chief executive of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said: "Each of these new events in their own way will be special, distinctive and not just more of the same."

Eventful year

June 13: Britain By Bentley

Location: High Street

Vintage Bentleys will be on show as part of the 75th anniversary of the Bentley Drivers Club.

June 24-26: Swamp Soccer

Location: Niddrie, next to the Jack Kane Centre

International event where teams compete in a "swamp".

August 29-September 29: Jungle City

Location: Various outdoor locations throughout the city

Art event comprising 120 brightly-painted sculptures followed by an auction expected to raise 1 million for conservation charities.

September 24-25: JKS World Karate Championships

Location: Royal Highland Showground, Ingliston

Event for specialists in Japan Karate Shotorenmei.