Stirling MSP, Evelyn Tweed, hosted an event to mark the near conclusion of Scotland’s Year of Stories; a year designed to spotlight, celebrate and promote the wealth of stories inspired by, written, or created in Scotland. Ms Tweed is the co-convenor of the Tourism Cross Party Group at the Scottish Parliament. In this role she opened proceedings with a short speech which highlighted the fantastic collaborative working across the sector and the huge impact of the Year of Stories across Scotland.
Other speakers at the event included the Minister for Business, Tourism, Trade and Enterprise, Ivan McKee MSP, Lord John Thurso, Chairman of VisitScotland, and Minister for Culture, Europe and International Development Neil Gray MSP. The event was well attended by key partners as well as MSPs. Attendees also enjoy a performance from Songs from the Last Page, a musical ensemble writing songs using the last pages from Scottish books suggested by members of the public. DC Thomson’s Dennis the Menace and Gnasher also made an appearance.
The tourism industry is still facing immense challenges after the impact of Covid-19 restrictions. In spite of that, 2022 has seen exciting new initiatives through which the industry has demonstrated its innovation, creativity and commitment to creating responsible and memorable experiences for visitors from home and abroad.
Commenting, Evelyn Tweed MSP said;
‘I was delighted to host this wonderful evening and take the opportunity to reflect on the successes of the Year of Stories. Tourism is a key part of our economy in Stirling and for Scotland as a nation, and the restrictions throughout the Covid-19 pandemic led to several challenging years. However, I think this time gave people living in Scotland an opportunity to spend their holidays closer to home. I personally enjoyed some of my favourite family holidays right here in Scotland. Scotland truly is a beautiful, amazing and welcoming place. “It was a great pleasure to speak to key stakeholders in the industry and hear about their challenges and successes this year. Scotland has so much to offer visitors, and with such a rich history and tradition of storytelling the Year of Stories was a great way to highlight this.”
VisitScotland Chairman Lord Thurso said:
“The Year of Stories 2022 has been a fantastic opportunity to celebrate and promote the wealth of stories that make Scotland so special. It is only fitting that we are able to mark the many achievements of our many partners across the tourism, events and wider related sectors at this dedicated Parliamentary Reception.
“From Scotland’s UNESCO Trail to some 350 funded and partner events and festivals that have taken place throughout the year, the Year of Stories has had an important role to play in the responsible recovery of tourism and events and there is no doubt that Scotland’s unique and special stories will continue to inspire audiences at home and around the world for many years to come.”
