It's being hailed as Scotland's most exciting tourism development programme and a group of businesses from Skye have become the first on the island this year to take part.

100k Welcomes is a national training initiative designed to equip Scotland's tourist industry to compete in the lucrative worldwide market by offering first-class customer service.

Six women, all working in Skye's booming tourism business, have just completed the 100k Welcomes programme designed specifically for staff working in the front line of the industry. The training took place at Aros, the award-winning visitor centre in Portree.

Trainer Denny MacKean says: "The tourist industry in Scotland is worth £4.9bn and attracts 18 million people each year. But it's a competitive industry in a global market place. Tourism is hugely important for Skye and those businesses which enjoy success year are year are those who offer truly exceptional customer service. Discovering how to do that is what the 100k Welcomes programme is all about."

Jenny Earland who works at the See Breezes restaurant in Portree, said: "This is a brilliant day. It's all really practical. I especially like the way you identify areas you want to improve on, decide where it is you want to be and then, thanks to some of the brilliant tools and techniques Denny taught us, list what actions you need to take to get you there."

Caroline Forsyth, Skills Development Manager at HIE Skye and Wester Ross says: "It's fabulous to see local businesses embracing 100K, it's a fantastic tool to help businesses achieve excellent customer service offering a fresh approach to customer service, perfect for refreshing memories as well as learning new skills."

For further information about 100k Welcomes contact project manager Mandy Souter on 01382 305514 or info@100kwelcomes.co.uk or visit www.100kwelcomes.co.uk