The number of tourists visiting Orkney has grown by 18% since 2005 according to a new report.

Around 142,000 people now visit the islands every year and 95% of visitors would recommend Orkney as a holiday destination, says the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE)-commissioned study.

The majority of visitors to Orkney are over the age of 45 and over 80% come from the UK while tourist spend has risen by 13% - providing a £32million cash boost.

The coastal scenery, archaeology and prehistoric sites proved some of the main draws for travellers.

Ruth Kirkpatrick, head of business growth at HIE said: "A successful tourism industry is vital for the Orkney economy, and we commissioned this research to find out just how the Orkney tourism product rates at a time when costs are more likely to be a concern for visitors.”

Councillor Ian Johnstone, chair of the Council's Development Committee said: "With regard to the difficult economic climate prevailing in the UK and abroad, it is extremely gratifying to note the growth of Orkney tourism. “

VisitScotland's Island Manager Orkney, Barbara Foulkes said: "This is fantastic news for Orkney with a 3 per cent average growth year on year since 2005 set against a back drop of challenging economic conditions.

“Orkney has everything to offer the visitor and it seems the message is spreading.”