Beach kilt proves a seaside hit

Thousand of the beach towel kilts have been sold

The workforce at a south west Scotland souvenir firm is set for a cash windfall after the company's latest release proved a massive summer hit.

Dalbeattie-based Thistle Products - which also produces See You Jimmy hats - launched the Instakilt a month ago.

Since then sales of the tartan beach towel, which doubles as a kilt, have almost outstripped supplies.

Managing Director Ernie Parkinson said staff could look forward to a bonus this year on the back of its success.

He said the Instakilt had been the most successful item his firm had ever produced.

"It has just absolutely taken the market by storm - we have never known a product like it, " said Mr Parkinson.

"We thought when we had the Jimmy hat all those years ago that that did well but this kilt has just been unbelievable.

"We have sold thousands upon thousands upon thousands."

Profit share

He confirmed that his workers would enjoy a share of its amazing success.

"We have had reports from head office in Woolworths that they have never known a product like it in their stores," he said.

"The employees do have a profit share - we are very conscious of keeping employees happy - but this year they are going to look forward to an additional bonus."