Tourism in Lothians gets funding boost

MORE than a fifth of a national tourism fund has been invested in the Lothians.

The 1 million VisitScotland Growth Fund aims to help the marketing of tourism across the country.

Since its launch last year, the fund has spent 650,000, with 22 per cent invested in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Projects supported so far include Edinburgh Edge, Meet in Midlothian, Festivals Scottish Racing, Unique Venues of Edinburgh and Cruise Edinburgh.

The fund can support groups with up to 50 per cent of their marketing costs over one year.

It is open to national, regional and local groups working collaboratively to help them reach new target markets, boost visitor numbers and increase spend.