The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
HebCelt gives major economic boost to the islands
The economic impact of the Hebridean Celtic Festival in Stornoway has been underlined by a new report which shows it brought £2.1 million to the local economy.
HebCelt, headlined by Deacon Blue, The Fratellis, Eddi Reader, Skipinnish, and Roddy Woomble was held from July 18-21 with all four nights sold out.
Overall attendances reached nearly 18,000 over the four days of the event, its highest ever number, with an estimated total in excess of 7,500 paying festival goers.
More than half (56%) of the audience came from outside Lewis and Harris, including 5% from outwith the UK.
In all, 66% of visitors from outside Scotland said HebCelt was the sole or main reason for travelling to Lewis and 70% said they were likely to return.
The report by MKA Economics says: “In terms of reasons for visiting the festival, 21% of non-locals were visiting Lewis and Harris for the first time. The event can therefore be seen to have played an important role in attracting new visitors to the area, as well as encouraging repeat trips”.
Overall, the festival generated a net economic effect of £2.1m, which has helped safeguard 38 tourism-related jobs.
HebCelt director Caroline Maclennan said: “The festival is a significant economic driver and a major tourism magnet for the Outer Hebrides and beyond.
“After 23 years, HebCelt’s popularity continues to develop and the feedback has been tremendous.”