One of Europe's premier windsurfing events gets under way in the Inner Hebrides today.

Taking place on Tiree, the televised Wave Classic windsurfing competition is expected to increase the island population by around 600.

The event runs until October 18 and involves three disciplines - wave sailing, freestyle and super-cross (slalom racing).

The competition has been expanded this year to include the Coll Challenge on October 14.

This triathlon is said to be the most remote adventure race in the UK and comprises running, wind-surfing and mountain biking.

Gordon Ritchie, director of GMFCo, the event promoters, said: "We are delighted that, because of the level of interest and support for this event, we are expanding it to include this brand new challenge on Coll. It draws a world focus on these small islands and an economic benefit that continues long after the competition finishes."

Donald Melville, development manager at Highlands and Islands Enterprise, which has part-funded the event, said: "Sport tourism is a fast-growing sector for Scotland and the continuing popularity and success of this annual event proves the valuable contribution it can make to the region's more fragile economies."

Other events include live- music performances, island tours, food tasting and craft exhibitions.