SCOTLAND’S tourism chief has sampled some of the “really strong” tourism offering in East Lothian.

Stephen Leckie, who became chairman of VisitScotland earlier this year, was met by representatives of businesses from throughout the county during the visit at the end of last month.

Tourism is a key strand of the county’s economy and Mr Leckie was joined by Neil Christison, VisitScotland regional director, and Provost John McMillan, East Lothian Council’s environment, economic development and tourism spokesperson, as well as council officials and business owners, in touring facilities and discussing tourism developments.

Mr Leckie, who visited Belhaven Brewery, Foxlake Adventures and Whitekirk Hill, said: “It was a pleasure to discuss tourism developments in the area with businesses and how VisitScotland and East Lothian Council are supporting the regional economic strategy.

“Our recent collaborations around accessibility and the travel trade are helping businesses improve, and expand, their visitor offering to reach new customers.

“East Lothian has a wealth of high-quality attractions, accommodation and visitor experiences, and by working together we can drive the visitor economy sustainably and responsibly.”

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Representatives from Dukes of West Barns, Ocean Vertical and Dunmuir Hotel also joined the group.

The visit was organised in conjunction with East Lothian Council on the back of VisitScotland’s successful travel trade event, VisitScotland Connect, held in April, which was attended by East Lothian businesses.

Engaging with the travel trade is important for businesses seeking to increase their international profile and bookings, as more than half of international visitors plan and book their travel through travel agents or tour operators.

The local authority has since supported two groups of 10 businesses for its travel trade development programme, to enable them to engage with travel agents and tour operators.

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Mr McMillan, who represents the Haddington and Lammermuir ward on East Lothian Council, said: “We have a really strong tourism industry in East Lothian, including food and drink, attractions and hospitality, and that industry is strengthened by the valuable partnership working that is enjoyed between the businesses, East Lothian Council’s economic development team and VisitScotland.

“It was a pleasure to meet with Stephen and to hear all about new developments with some of our wonderful businesses to grow their sustainable offering to visitors and to strengthen their links with the travel trade.

“It’s all about spreading the word about East Lothian’s amazing coast, countryside and hospitality.”