The investment is an increase of around £5,000 on last year. This level of government support also means more spend with Scottish boating businesses.

Minister Stewart Maxwell said: 'I am delighted that sportscotland is backing our talented Scottish sailors competing on the international stage, and by funding the Sailing in the City programme, introducing thousands of children to this exciting sport and importantly, encouraging more active, healthy lifestyles.'

Louise Martin confirmed that the money, of which £189,080 is from the sportscotland Lottery Fund, would be used to develop the sport across the country.

Agnes Barclay, Chief Operating Officer of RYAS welcomed the investment: she says 'sportscotland’s support - financial and professional - is extremely valuable. It is enabling more new sailors to enter the sport and helping Scotland create future champions. Funding enables us to provide a proven pathway to Olympic achievement, starting with a youngster’s first sailing experience, through training stages to achieve a place in the Scottish Sailing Squad, and being coached towards the ultimate goal - selection for the British Sailing Squad and the Olympics.'

Twelve Scots are currently involved in the GB junior and youth squads and RYAS are keen to increase that number in the build up to the Olympics in 2012.