TWO Helensburgh and Lomond destinations have joined the Argyll and Bute Gift Card initiative.

Hill House and Geilston Gardens are now part of the scheme, part of the wider Scotland Loves Local Gift Card programme which aims to boost the local economy and tourism.

The National Trust for Scotland is now accepting one of the 19 regional Scotland Loves Local Gift Cards at 47 sites across the country.

These cards can be used in on-site gift shops, for admission, and in cafes at the properties.

The addition of Arduaine Garden, Crarae Woodland Garden, Geilston Garden, and the Hill House to the Argyll and Bute Gift Card scheme supports more than 315 local businesses, including shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Andrew Roberts, head of retail at the NTS, said: "Partnering with Scotland Loves Local Gift Cards is an excellent opportunity for us to engage with our local communities, encouraging them to visit our amazing places and support the trust’s vital conservation work.

"It also helps to promote our places as shopping destinations."

The Scotland Loves Local Gift Card programme was introduced in 2021, where each card can only be spent in the regions on which they are branded, locking spend into local communities.

To date, more than £15 million has been spent through the initiative, with more than 7,000 Scottish local businesses participating.

Councillor Jim Lynch, leader of the Argyll and Bute Council, said: "We’re delighted to welcome four National Trust for Scotland places in Argyll and Bute to the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card scheme.

"The scheme has been a great success in Argyll and Bute, providing essential services and supporting local employment, and we are extremely fortunate to have such a diverse range of great businesses in the area.

"Having the National Trust for Scotland on board is a great opportunity to help promote the fantastic tourism offering we have in Argyll and Bute."

The Scotland Loves Local Gift Cards can be purchased by both consumers and organisations for staff rewards and incentives.

They are available for purchase on the Scotland Gifts Local website.