A bus firm will run more journeys into Moray’s whisky heartland after noticing a surge in customers during a festival celebrating Scotland’s national drink.
Stagecoach is preparing to trial a new route linking seven popular distilleries across Speyside, and will carry out hourly trips between Elgin and Dufftown on Sundays as part of the same pilot scheme.
Bosses at the transport firm yesterday revealed that they were inspired to expand the 36 route after scores of tourists attending the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival made use of it on their travels.
Managing director for Stagecoach’s North Scotland division, David Liston, outlined his hopes that the new service could benefit both the firm and the region’s visitor economy.
He said: “We are always looking for ways to encourage more people to try the bus, and we hope this campaign will be welcome news for visitors to the area and locals that choose to travel by bus.
“We recognise the importance of the Speyside area and the many fantastic attractions that our bus services connect to, and hope that local businesses will support our efforts.”
The chairman of the Malt Whisky Trail tourism project, James Johnston, praised the eye-catching whisky-themed design being emblazoned across a bus to promote the enhanced service.
He said: “I am delighted to see that Stagecoach has launched a new livery that reflects on the glue that brings the region together.”
The 36 route takes in the scenic countryside between Elgin, Rothes, Aberlour, Craigellachie and Dufftown.
The trial of the Sunday service will run from July 1 until August 12.
