The study, Sailing in the Clyde Estuary, was commissioned by Scottish Enterprise (Ayrshire) and Highlands and Islands Enterprise from the McKenzie Wilson Partnership. It has used new research information to establish the economic contribution of leisure marine in Scotland at £250m (excluding capital expenditure), which compares well with golf, Scotland's headline activity, at £300m.

The report is being presented to Visit Scotland, Scottish Enterprise and Event Scotland prior to the seminar.

The Enterprise Company is keen to progress this in terms of developing facilities (slipways, landing pontoons, visitor moorings, etc) not only on the Firth of Clyde but on the West Coast of Scotland and has asked the boating industry to lead the way to lobby and demand improvement in facilities.

This is a perfect opportunity to capture the attention of public bodies and get some funding and help.

To support this initiative Scottish Enterprise has offered a seminar room and a sandwich lunch to all interested marine operators, including all BMF Scotland and Sail Scotland members. The meeting will begin at 13.30 when the report will be presented, followed by an open forum for questions and suggestions. 

The Sail Scotland AGM, and a discussion on the SS London Boat Show stand and brochure, (for Sail Scotland members only) will round off the afternoon.

Further details from Sail Scotland (01546 603500; sailscotland@hotmail.co.uk), or from Carolyn Elder at Largs Yacht Haven (01475 675333; carolyn@largsyachthaven.com).