Due to the success of the ‘Themed’ Years for the Tourism industry in Scotland the scheme is to continue till 2022.

Tourism is a vital sector in the Orkney economy with visitor numbers up and visits by cruise ships this year ,2017 ,already set at 143. This is the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology  , a theme that Orkney fits into neatly. The themed years have extra funding attached to them and focus on particular aspects that may appeal to potential visitors.

Tourism Secretary for the Scottish Government Fiona Hyslop said:

“The Themed Years programme has succeeded in giving Scottish tourism an edge, galvanising partners to work together to promote Scotland and its people.”

“Organisations and individuals who participated in the recent consultation were in favour of continuing with themed years. More importantly, a significant majority found the programme to be beneficial to their business or organisation. We also listened to the views expressed that the programme would benefit from longer time scales and the Years will now be delivered in a two year cycle.”

“I am pleased that the programme will continue up to 2022, providing an ideal way to continue to celebrate the best of Scotland.”

The Themes chosen are:

• 2018   Year of Young People
• 2020  Year of Scotland’s Coast and Waters
• 2022  Year of Scotland’s Stories