A tourist magazine featuring attractions around Loch Lomond is claiming a digital world first with the introduction of interactive augmented reality.

For the first time, readers are able to fully connect with the printed page through a series of "zapcodes" found throughout the pages of the magazine, In And Around Loch Lomond, the Clyde Sea Lochs and Argyll.

By downloading the free Zappar app onto their smart phones or tablets (via Apple Store or Google Play), readers will be able to access videos, photo slide shows, maps and direct call or email connections as well as event information and website links.

The guide is produced by Downtown City Maps, an independent tourist information publisher based in Helensburgh.

Company owner Frank Willoughby said: "Using the Zappar app we can really fire the reader’s imagination by bringing them video, rich imagery and content that enables them to experience in advance a whole new level of tourist information exactly where they want it – through their phones or tablets. And then book it at the press of a button.

"This is not the same as QR codes - it really is a game changer."

Frank added: “I already know that our Loch Lomond clients see this as a massive, innovative step forward in terms of tourist information delivery.

"Combining popular printed information with rich and engaging digital content brings together the best of both worlds.

"It lets attraction and tour operators, restaurant owners, accommodation providers - in fact, anyone with an ambition to engage with the tourist market - the opportunity to showcase what they do in real time, with rich content that fully grabs the attention of the visitor.”

The augmented reality content already appears in the spring edition of the magazine and Frank says it will grow and improve in the summer and autumn/winter editions.

Another Helensburgh company, Let's Promote, does the design and layout of the magazine.