A Helensburgh business owner is claiming a digital world first by introducing interactive augmented reality to a tourist magazine he publishes.

Frank Willoughby has incorporated "zapcodes" throughout the guide to Loch Lomond, the Clyde Sea Lochs and Argyll.

By downloading the free Zappar app onto their smart phones or tablets (via Apple Store or Google Play), readers will be able to access videos, photo slide shows, maps, direct call or email connections as well as event information and website links.

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Frank, who runs the independent tourist information publisher, Downtown City Maps, said: "Using the Zappar app we can really fire the reader’s imagination by bringing them video, rich imagery and content that enables them to experience in advance a whole new level of tourist information exactly where they want it – through their phones or tablets. And then book it at the press of a button.

"This is not the same as QR codes - It really is a game changer."

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Frank added: “I already know that our Loch Lomond clients see this as a massive, innovative step forward in terms of tourist information delivery.

"Combining popular printed information with rich and engaging digital content brings together the best of both worlds.

"It lets attraction and tour operators, restaurant owners, accommodation providers - in fact anyone with an ambition to engage with the tourist market - the opportunity to showcase what they do in real time, with rich content that fully grabs the attention of the visitor.”

The spring issue already contains zapcodes, and Frank said the augmented reality content will grow and improve within the summer and autumn/winter editions of the guide.

Another Helensburgh company, Let's Promote, handles the design and layout of the magazine.