Zoo 'rock star' pandas set to raise volume

EDINBURGH Zoo is expected to see attendances soar after it becomes home to two "rock stars of the animal world".

A pair of giant pandas are due to arrive in the Capital as early as next spring.

Some zoos have seen their visitor numbers double after the introduction of the endangered animals.

Giant pandas have been described as "rock stars of the animal world" because of their pulling power, and they are likely to be a major boost for the local economy, as well as he zoo itself.

Edinburgh Zoo is currently considering the implications for its own infrastructure, as well as Scotland's tourism industry, if they do arrive from China.

Sinead Guerin, VisitScotland's regional director, said: "From a tourism point of view, it would be a real boost. It's the kind of animal people might make a trip to come to see, which would then bring benefits to other parts of the sector, accommodation providers, restaurants, retailers and other attractions."