The Highland Military Tattoo has appointed marketing specialists in an attempt to drum up ticket sales.
Fears had been raised for the future of the showpiece event because of small crowds at Fort George – leading to a £40,000 loss over the last three years.
But the organisers announced before Christmas they would press on with plans for the 2017 event after months of uncertainty about the tattoo’s future.
The organising board has now appointed marketing firm Intimation Creative as a key partner for this year’s event.
The tattoo board said the East Lothian-based company was selected due to expertise in planning, execution and management of similar campaigns in the past.
Tattoo director, Major General Seymour Monro said: “We are off to an encouraging start to this year’s tattoo promotion; the team at Intimation put forward a comprehensive plan and have already commenced work.
“Our aim is to make the Highland Military Tattoo a well-attended annual event on the Highland and Moray’s calendar, drawing in a local and worldwide audience.
“The board looks forward to a hugely successful Highland Military Tattoo 2017.”
The tattoo has been held at Fort George since it was revived in 2014 and will be held this year between September 8 and 10.
The 2017 programme is due to celebrate the military heritage of Fort George as well as the 75th anniversary of the RAF Regiment at Lossiemouth.
The 18th century fortress will also host the usual mix of traditional and more contemporary acts, including massed pipes and drums, Highland dancing, competitions, vignettes, flypasts and a spectacular fireworks display.
Gaelic will also feature in the repertoire during the Year of Gaelic Welcome, when multinational audiences will have the opportunity to learn a few words themselves.
Organisers have also reviewed ticket prices and will introduce a wider range of ticket options to increase the availability of lower-priced tickets, making the family event more accessible.
