A picture of the Isle of Barra, taken by SNP President Ian Hudghton MEP, has been included in the prestigious calendar for 2007 produced by the Brussels based Parliament Magazine.

The photograph of Halaman Bay, near Castlebay, which was selected out of entries in a contest among the 785 MEPs, is included alongside scenes from all around the EU such as a Baltic sunset and snow-capped Italian peaks. Images of the white sands of Halaman Bay will now be circulated all over Europe as thousands of copies of the calendar are distributed.

Commenting, Mr Hudghton says:

"This calendar is a great way for MEPs to promote their country and so I am delighted that my photo of the beautiful Isle of Barra will find its way into many homes and offices all over Europe.

"I took the picture while visiting the Western Isles last August with local SNP representative Alasdair Allan, who had arranged a series of meetings and visits to constituents. The Hebrides form a stunning part of the planet and I am extremely pleased the picture has been selected.

"I like to take photographs wherever I travel, but it did not cross my mind to enter a picture of anywhere other than Scotland. I hope that this year's calendar will encourage more tourists to enjoy Scotland."