The number of overseas visitors coming to Scotland increased by 14 per cent in the first nine months of 2006 – a growth rate nearly double that of the rest of the UK, which recorded an eight per cent rise.

According to the Scottish Executive’s International Passenger Survey, the number of visitors from Europe rose by 13 per cent compared with the first nine months of 2005, whereas the rest of the UK reported only a nine per cent rise.

Over the same comparative period, visitor numbers from North America to Scotland also rose 16 per cent – double that of the rest of the UK.

Visits from countries outside Europe and North American increased by 12 per cent compared with four per cent in the rest of the UK.

Tourism minister Patricia Ferguson said: “In a very competitive global market, Scotland is increasingly becoming an enticing destination of choice for overseas visitors. I want to work with the industry to realise its ambition of 50 per cent growth in the next decade.”

VisitScotland’s CEO Philip Riddle added: “The increase in direct flights to Scotland, more targeted marketing campaigns and of course our many attractions have all influenced this growth. It is crucial that we continue to work together across the industry to keep this going.” Details: www.scotland.gov.uk