Fringe should be a source of pride

The phenomenon that is the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has once again brought a sparkling array of cultural acts to the doorstep of Tayside and Fife.

Returning for an incredible 68th year, the worldrenowned event has now firmly cemented its place as the biggest, best and brightest of its kind anywhere on the international stage.

For those heading over the bridges this weekend organisers have promised the usual diverse programme of comedy, theatre, dance, circus, cabaret, exhibitions, children’s shows, musicals, opera and spoken word events at a gathering of the arts which prides itself on no “vetting or barriers” to acts.

From the top billing comedians of the moment playing the likes of Edinburgh International Conference Centre, to the unknown, and often off-the-wall, acts appearing in basement or attic shows at the likes of the Counting House, there really is something for everyone.

The festival’s connection’s to historic buildings and the city’s universities also give an added dimension that simply can’t be created anywhere else and in terms of a tourism boost the Fringe is a major cash cow.

And it’s not just businesses in the capital that will benefit.

There’s no doubt that the thousands who flock to Scotland venture further afield to see more of our beautiful country and the spin-off economic benefits are always substantial.

As Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop says, the festival “raises our standing on the world stage”.

It is certainly something we should all be proud of.