Truck strikes Scots tourism boss in New York

A TOURISM official from the Lothians is recovering in a New York hospital after being hit by a truck during Scotland Week.

Melanie Angus, 35, a marketing manager with VisitScotland, was knocked down on Manhattan's Second Avenue on Friday night.

Melanie, from West Calder, near Livingston, was part of a trade mission during the annual celebration to mark Scottish culture and history. She is now being treated in hospital, where her condition is described as stable.

A VisitScotland spokeswoman said: "Her accident came as a shock to everyone and we are all wishing her a quick recovery.

"Melanie's family back in Scotland have been informed. Staff at VisitScotland are doing everything they can to support Mel and her family at this time."

The marketing manager joined VisitScotland in 2002 and has been in the travel industry for 15 years. Her accident happened on the eve of the high-profile Scotland Day parade.

The annual week of festivities is designed to raise Scotland's profile in North America and show it is a good place to do business.