AN INTERNATIONAL gathering of the Clan Colquhoun this summer has been boosted by grant funding of almost £3,500.

The event, to be held in Luss between July 3 and 7, is one of 14 clan and community events across nine local authorities which will receive a share of funding through the Scottish Clan Event Fund.

Around £52,000 will be allocated through the 2019 grants, including £3,450 for the Clan Colquhoun event, £5,000 for the International Clan MacDougall Gathering and £4,600 for the Clan Ewing Gathering, all in Argyll and Bute.

The Scottish Clan Event Fund supports the growth of clan events across Scotland and helps to fund clan gatherings, games and historical re-enactments as well as walks and tours, ceilidhs and festivals.

For the 11 events funded in 2018, VisitScotland estimates 47 per cent of those attending were international visitors and the net economic impact was around £1 million.

Cabinet secretary for culture, tourism and external affairs Fiona Hyslop said: “Scotland’s rich history, heritage and culture appeals to visitors around the world and with up to 50 million people globally claiming Scottish ancestry, we know our clans are a huge draw for tourists.

“The Scottish Clan Event Fund is helping to build on the benefits of the ‘Outlander effect’, and encouraging international visitors with clan connections to visit Scotland, while also involving people in the local communities.

“From the Highlands to Argyll and down to the Borders, this year’s clans and families events are delving into more areas than ever and will help continue to promote Scotland as a must visit destination.”

Paul Bush, VisitScotland’s director of events, said: “The Scottish Clan Events Fund continues to grow in popularity and I’m delighted 14 events have secured funding from the latest round.”