GILRUTH BACKS FIFE-BASED HISTORY APP

Published date : 28 Feb 2020

Mid Fife and Glenrothes MSP, Jenny Gilruth, recently met with Fife Tourism Partnership to discuss their ‘In the Footsteps of Kings’ app – Scotland’s first augmented reality app that aims to bring to life the story of Scotland’s kings across Fife.

The app follows Jess the Jester around various Mid-Fife landmarks, including Markinch Parish Church in the MSP’s Mid Fife and Glenrothes constituency, and gives visitors the opportunity to interact with characters on the way and take part in activities tailored to each location.

Supported by Scottish Enterprise funding, the app has had more than 1,400 downloads since its launch last year and has also won a national award for innovation at the 2019 Family Attraction Expo.

In addition to connecting visitors with Fife’s rich history, the app also provides information on local businesses near the trail such as tea rooms, restaurants and hotels.

Commenting after the meeting, Jenny Gilruth MSP said:

“I was delighted to meet with Fife Tourism Partnership officials to discuss their ‘In the Footsteps of Kings’ project.

“Fife’s unique history is explored through the app and it is great to see the development of an app that can bring each location to life with engaging content for all ages.

“As well as delivering an interactive and educational experience, the app aims to help drive footfall into local businesses. I am pleased that the Scottish Government, through Scottish Enterprise, has helped to fund this innovative project. ‘In the Footsteps of Kings’ is the type of project that puts Fife and Scotland at the forefront of technology time and time again.”

Sandra Montador-Stewart, Service Manager for Economy, Tourism and Town Centres at Fife Council said:

“It’s been great to see In The Footsteps of Kings portray Fife’s fascinating royal heritage through cutting edge digital technology.

“In The Footsteps of Kings has had an amazing response since its launch in May 2019 and was the recipient of the prestigious Innovation Award at the Family Attraction Expo 2019.

“Fife’s tourism industry is now worth £588m and continues to grow year-on-year. I am confident that this advanced technology will further support our aim of enhancing our regional visitor experience.”

ENDS

Notes to Editor –

Photo attached (L-R): Drew Shedden (Cluny Activities Manager), John Murray (Fife Council Tourism Officer), Jenny Gilruth MSP, Ann Camus (Fife Council Tourism Partnership Manager) and Cllr Ian Cameron.

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