The following extracts from an answer by Jim Mather to a question (S3W-23493) raised by Jackie Baille (Dumbarton) (Lab) show the extent that the Scottish Executive (SE) provide support in cash and in kind to encourage golf tourism via Scottish Enterprise and VisitScotland.

Mr Jim Mather :

SE contributes to the Framework for Scottish Golf – Tourism Group. This work, described as ‘One Plan for Golf’, aims to align the objectives and strategies of all organisations involved in developing the sport of golf.

VisitScotland spends £1m annually on the promotion of golf tourism. Marketing activity includes publications, direct mailings, sponsorship of major tournaments, golf website, and attending the International Golf travel market.

In 2008-9 The National Golf Tourism Monitor was introduced (£9,000) in order to assist partner agencies (VisitScotland, Scottish Enterprise and H&I Enterprise), as well as wider industry stakeholders, to capture information about trends of visiting golfer rounds played on golf courses in Scotland.

Golf Tourism Business Insight seminar- (£6,000)The event provided businesses involved in the golf market, both as operators and in the wider tourism community.

The St Andrews Golf Development Group has been assisted with business development activities (web and database development) and development of an International Marketing Strategy. £12,000

First In Fife Golf Group – The group have upgraded their website, collecting much improved customer data, and have recruited new businesses into the fold. £15,000

Golf Tourism Ayrshire was provided with support for a new destination marketing campaign, which includes a new industry body called Scotland’s West Coast Golf Links. This was formally constituted in February, and launched officially by Jim Mather on 22 April. £12,000

Support for the British Senior’s Open – at Royal Troon and evaluation report as to the economic impact of the event. £29,000   Support for the British Open – at Royal Birkdale. £30,000

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