Promising Start To 2003 For Tattoo

Latest figures released today by Scotland's showpiece military event reveal that 55% of the available 217,000 tickets for the 2003 Tattoo (1-23 August) have already been snapped up.

Comparisons with 2002 show that ticket sales are more than 16,000 seats up on January 2002 with an increase of almost £500,000 in ticketing revenue relative to the same period last year. These encouraging year-on-year figures represent some £2million in gross box office takings so far.

"As we gear up for our 2003 season this is indeed excellent news for both the Tattoo and Scotland's tourism industry," commented Tattoo Chief Executive and Producer, Brigadier Melville Jameson.

"I can promise a production rich in variety from around the world, and what will probably be the largest pipe band ever seen at the Tattoo," he added.

But while demand for the Tattoo remains strong, with last August's phenomenally successful production helping to boost sales for the forthcoming show, there is still a degree of consumer caution in the global tourism marketplace.

Over 1,000 performers from Oman, Bermuda, Australia and New Zealand are scheduled to take part in the 3-week event this summer, which will include contributions from The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery as well as The Flying Gunners Motorcycle Display Team and the colourfully exotic Gombey Dancers with the Band of The Royal Bermuda Regiment.

Tickets, priced £9.00 to £31.00, can be obtained by post from the Tattoo Ticket Office, 32-34 Market Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1QB, by facsimile on 0131 225 8627 or via the Internet at www.edintattoo.co.uk Telephone orders may be made on 08707 555 118.