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Katie Morag boom predicted for Hebridean tourism      9/10/14

VisitScotland believes the popularity of hit children’s TV show Katie Morag will boost  tourism for Lewis.

 

The national tourism organisation hopes it will increase the number of visitors in the same way Balamory did for Mull.

 

Caledonian MacBrayne reported an increase in passenger numbers of around 15.5% between Oban and Mull in 2005,2006, 2007 - the peak years of Balamory’s popularity.

    

According to VisitScotland, a fifth of all visitors to Scotland are influenced to come to Scotland after seeing it on film or television.

 

A series of the award-winning adaption of the books by Mairi Hedderwick has been broadcast and a second set of episodes is due to air in 2015.

 

Jenni Steele, film  manager at VisitScotland said: “It’s no surprise that the wild beauty of the Isle of Lewis is capturing the imagination of Katie’s young fans and their families alike.

 

“The Outer Hebrides looks magnificent on screen, and those inspired to visit in real life will certainly not be disappointed when they discover the island offers not just stunning landscapes and amazing wildlife, but a rich and vibrant culture, ideal for those seeking a totally unique holiday experience”

 

Ian Fordham, chairman of Outer Hebrides Tourism Industry Association said: “The Katie Morag series has really helped promote the islands of Scotland as a holiday destination for people of all ages.

 

“Although Katie Morag’s island home is fictitious, the Outer Hebrides was delighted to be chosen as a filming location, and we can offer a truly different holiday experience, away from the hectic and fast paced life on the mainland.”

 

In the books, young red-headed heroine Katie Morag lives with her family on the fictional island of Struay and, when producers of the show were looking for an appropriate location to film, the stunning surroundings of Lewis in The Outer Hebrides were a natural fit.

 

The series replicates all of the beloved locations from the books, including the post office and shop where Katie lives, and Granny Island’s house where many of Katie’s adventures take place.