Scottish tourism minister Fergus Ewing has announced £3m will be invested in the events industry as part of efforts to mark the country's Homecoming celebrations in 2014.

EventScotland will work with industry partners to establish a programme of events across the country, which will be designed to attract more domestic and overseas visitors.

An application process for event owners and organisers is expected to launch this summer when full criteria for Event Fund support and bid guidelines are published.

Ewing said: "In 2014 Scotland will welcome the world as we stage two of the biggest sporting events - the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup.

"This momentous year also sees Scotland's next year of Homecoming, giving people even more reason to be in Scotland and to extend their stay."

Details: www.visitscotland.org