Agents’ Eastern promise

More than 550 Chinese travel agents have enrolled to become VisitScotland ambassadors in the past four years.

It follows the launch of an online training initiative to help further promote Scotland as a leading tourism destination.

Alex Salmond made the announcement during a visit to the country.

With around 11,000 visitors to Scotland from China each year, the First Minister welcomed the success of the SCOTSagent programme as he presented 25 Chinese travel agents with tartan sashes.

The training course they completed educates them on various aspects of Scotland, including its geography, customs, culture and transport.

The presentation was made at a special Scotland Reception.