A new open water event has received support from EventScotland - just months after the plug was pulled on another major Loch Lomond swimming event.

In March, The Great Scottish Swim, which was due to take place in August, was cancelled after organisers said the rising number of participants made the event unsustainable for them in the long-term.

The previous year's event had attracted 2,700 swimmers, including world class elite athletes, and brought a huge economic boost to Balloch and lochside area.

The cancellation was seen as not just a disappointment to swimmers and spectators but also to the partner organisations who were delighted that the swim put an international spotlight on Loch Lomond.

Now, however, a packed programme of open water swimming events for all ages and experiences levels, dubbed Go Swim Loch Lomond, will follow in its footsteps and take place on September 7.

It has been awarded £10,000 by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland's events directorate, and will use this funding to enhance the athlete's village, produce a start and finishing stage, secure a commentator and to develop branding and flags.

Read more: Great Scottish Swim pulls plug on Loch Lomond event

Richard Pearson, Go Swim Loch Lomond event director, said: “We are really excited to be able to continue the tradition of fantastic open water swim events at Loch Lomond.

"We know thousands of people have enjoyed the previous races so it is a fantastic opportunity to create something that replicates that experience.

“We’re grateful to be working with EventScotland on this important and exciting project. Their support will ensure we deliver an even bigger and better Go Swim Loch Lomond. We look forward to all of our swimmers joining us on September 7.”

A thousand swimmers are expected to take part, with the programme including a family-friendly 250 metre option, and 750 and 1500 metre options for those just starting out in open water swimming.

For the more experienced swimmer, 3000, 5000 and 10,000 metre options will be available with all distances including generous cut offs to allow for those who want to take it a bit easier.

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Paul Bush OBE, director of events at VisitScotland, added: “EventScotland is delighted to be supporting Go Swim Loch Lomond, bringing a brand new event to the area and making the most of the Glasgow 2018 European Championships open water swimming legacy.

"With its established reputation amongst swimmers and its stunning backdrop for participants and spectators alike to enjoy, Loch Lomond is the perfect stage for such an event.”

For more information about Go Swim Loch Lomond visit go-swim.uk.