New research has revealed that November’s St Andrews Day celebrations in St Andrews were attended by more than 12,000 people, bringing more than £400,000 of economic benefit.
St Andrews Partnership which coordinated the weekend’s 25 separate events has welcomed the independent findings which also show almost a third of those attending came from outwith Fife.
The partnership’s chairman, Jim McArthur, said: “We are delighted to learn about these positive outcomes. In 2014 we set out, first and foremost, to bring St Andrews together and create a celebration that was run by the community, for the community.
“We were delighted with the support we received from local organisations, the logistics all worked well and the feedback locally following the weekend was very positive.
“However, what we didn’t anticipate was that there would also be such a large economic spin-off.
“Just over £250,000 was spent in the town by visitors from outwith Fife, which is a remarkable figure given this was our first year of co-ordinating the celebrations.
“A further £158,000 was spent by local residents, and it’s clear that the town’s shops, restaurants, accommodation providers and other businesses have all benefited considerably.”
Mr McArthur said the partnership’s board is fully committed to continually improving these events, believing the biggest St Andrews Day celebrations should be in the town that bears his name. More businesses are being encouraged to take part this year.