The Office of National Statistics (ONS) has reported that the total number of visitors by overseas residents to the UK grew by 2 per cent in the 12 months ending November 2011.

Visitor numbers from other parts of the world and North America increased by 10 per cent and 6 per cent respectively, although European visitor numbers remained broadly flat.

However, there was a 1 per cent drop in the estimated overseas visitor numbers for the three months ending November 2011, when compared with figures for the previous quarter.

Meanwhile, statistics have shown an 8 per cent increase in visitor numbers to Scotland in the first nine months of the year, while expenditure for the period was up 11 per cent.

The domestic market generated a 10 per cent increase for the Scottish market, although there was a 4 per cent decline in the number of overseas residents travelling to the country.

Scottish tourism minister Fergus Ewing said: "These figures are encouraging and an excellent demonstration of the resilience of Scotland's tourism industry.

"The staycation market is continuing to boost visitor numbers and average spend also rising. We will continue to invest in this market and the recently launched Year of Creative Scotland will help generate even more opportunities to do so."

Details: www.ons.gov.uk

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