THE FORTHCOMING summit will provide an opportunity to sell Perthshire to the world, tourist chiefs stressed yesterday.

At the signing of a new partnership agreement between VisitScotland and Perth and Kinross Council, Councillor Alan Livingstone, convener of enterprise and infrastructure, said they must embrace the opportunities of being in the spotlight.

“It’s fitting that one of our first opportunities to work together under the new agreement will be at the Scottish village at Glen- eagles Hotel, during the G8 Summit,” he said.

“We will be promoting Perthshire to the world’s media who we hope will have already experienced the excellent quality of services that our tourism sector delivers.”

The Scottish village is a trade fair promoting the best of the country’s products and services.

Mr Livingstone continued, “We are delighted to have signed this new partnership agreement with VisitScotland Perthshire and look forward to building upon the relationship we already have with them.

“Both parties are committed to promoting Perthshire as a great place to visit, be it for business, pleasure or a special event.

“Tourism is a key economic driver for the area and the partnership agreement reflects the council’s ongoing commitment to supporting the sector.”

The main aims of the new partnership agreement are that everyone should be encouraged to take a pride in Perthshire’s tourism product whether they are a business, resident or local organisation, while stressing that quality assurance is vital in delivering an excellent visitor experience and exceeding expectations.

Local organisations such as the council, VisitScotland, Scottish Enterprise Tayside and local tourism businesses are also being encouraged to work in partnership to support the Perthshire tourism sector.

The council contributes substantially towards tourism beyond the £360,000 financial support it provides to VisitScotland.

This includes advice and support to local firms from the council’s economic development unit; the creation of venues such as Perth Concert Hall; and the development and upkeep of recreational facilities, countryside access, road signs and car parking—all valuable assets in creating the right welcome for visitors.

Vicki Miller, VisitScotland area director for Perth-shire, said, “Close working arrangements with local authorities are an essential part of our strategy to grow the value of tourism throughout Scotland by 50% over the coming decade.

“I am delighted by Perth and Kinross Council’s positive approach … and very much look forward to working with the council through our partnership agreement.”