A NEW bus service that will serve East Lothian's tourist attractions will be launched at the end of the month.

East Coast Tours is a new offering from East Coast Buses and will aim to show off some of the county's most popular visitor attractions.

With two daily departures from Waverley Bridge in Edinburgh and departing hourly from North Berwick between June 30 and August 31, then throughout every weekend in September, two newly-refurbished open-top tour buses with live-guides will showcase all the attractions that East Lothian has to offer.

Mark Heritage, general manager at East Coast Buses, said: “Our local and dedicated team now provide a comprehensive and great travel experience for over 97,000 customers each week across East Lothian.

“Building on our reputation and high standards, we are excited to develop transport links for key visitor attractions throughout the county, while helping boost tourism in the area.

"Offering a unique and bespoke customer experience, our live-guided tours are sure to appeal to both the local and tourism markets.

"We look forward to welcoming our first customers on board later this month.”

Attractions benefitting from the new link include Tantallon Castle, NB Distillery, the National Museum of Flight, National Flag Heritage Centre, Chesters Hill Fort and Dirleton Castle.

Neil Christison, VisitScotland regional director, added: "With its beautiful countryside, stunning coastline and fantastic beaches, not to mention some amazing historic attractions and landmarks, East Lothian is the perfect location for this type of tour offering.

"The new tours will encourage visitors to East Lothian to experience the region as whole.

"Tourism is more than a holiday experience – it is integral to sustaining communities across Scotland by generating income, creating jobs and stimulating social change.”

Councillor John McMillan, Provost for East Lothian and the cabinet spokesperson for economic development and tourism, also hailed a "fantastic initiative".

The Haddington and Lammermuir ward member said: "As well as visitors it’s also a chance for local residents, perhaps including those who are new to the county, to find out more about East Lothian’s richness, history and geography.

"I’m sure the view from the top deck on a sunny day of our wonderful coast and countryside will be an unforgettable experience.”

Hop on-hop off travel all day on EastCoastTours costs £15 per adult and £7.50 per child aged 5-15; family and concession tickets are also available.

Ticket holders can also take advantage of discounts to the National Museum of Flight, NB Distillery and the Scottish Seabird Centre by showing their ticket on entry.

For more information, visit eastcoastbuses.co.uk