Fringe breaks ticket milestone

The Edinburgh Fringe has sold more than a million tickets for the first time in its 57-year history.

Sales were up 21 per cent on last year to almost 1.2 million, generating £9.4million of revenue.

This year's festival, which ends today, was also the biggest in size, with 1,541 shows in 207 venues.

Fringe director Paul Gudgin said: "This is an incredible milestone for us, but the real credit must go to the spectacular group of artists who have put on one of our strongest programmes ever.

"Smashing the million ticket mark heralds the start of a new era in the Fringe's history.

"It is time to realise the Fringe's future potential to attract and accommodate ever greater audiences, accelerate more performers' careers and continue to cement Edinburgh's reputation as the world's greatest festival city."

Johnny Vegas was the fastest-selling act, his 'secret' gig in the Stand comedy club selling out in 18 minutes.

Published: 25 Aug 2003