THE year of 2017 has been a successful year for tourism in Ayrshire and Arran, says the top official for VisitScotland in the area.

From major golf events, a new light and fire festival and an international air spectacle – these are just a few highlights of what has took place throughout the Ayrshire county.

VisitScotland Regional Director, Annique Armstrong looks back on a successful year for tourism in the region.

She said: “It is fantastic to see the success of major golfing events like the Scottish Open and the Ladies Scottish Open held at Dundonald Links in July – recently named sporting Event of the Year at the prestigious Sunday Mail Sports Awards.

“Ayrshire welcomed more than 60,000 spectators to these events, providing a £4 million boost to the local economy. These events helped to shine the spotlight on Ayrshire & Arran, beaming our breathtaking scenery to millions of viewers globally and showcasing the very best of what the region has to offer.”

The year saw the Scottish International Air Show, which brought in around 120,000 spectators to Ayr in July.

In 2018, Scotland celebrates the Year of Young People, with a year-long schedule of events, activities and ideas which will give young people the opportunity to shine, showcase their talents and contributions.

The year will provide more ways for both visitors and locals to explore all that Scotland has to offer.

Annique added: “As we approach the New Year and the start of the Year of Young People, I would like to remind people of some of the amazing events and festivals coming up in Ayrshire and Arran.

“The year will get off to a great start with Burns Night celebrations taking place throughout the region in the birthplace of the great poet.

“I am excited about the many opportunities that the year ahead will bring and we look forward to inspiring, supporting and encouraging visitors to Ayrshire and Arran in the coming year.”