UK Music has called for the development of a national live music tourism strategy after it was revealed that major concerts and festival are worth "at least" £864m each year.

Destination: Music is thought to be the first study of its kind to explore the impact of music events on the UK tourism sector, with events attracting at least 7.7 million people. According to the study, 5 per cent of all music tourists visiting concerts and festivals come from overseas and contribute 18 per cent of total music tourist spending.

A national live music tourism strategy is among a number of recommendations now being made by UK Music in a bid to increase overseas music tourist numbers. UK Music chief executive Feargal Sharkey said: "[The study's] message is crystal clear: music provides a huge boost to UK tourism, it drives growth, it sustains thousands of jobs across all regions and it enhances our lives."

Culture minister Ed Vaizey added: "This report demonstrates the world-wide reputation the UK music sector enjoys and the contribution it makes to our economy." The research was undertaken by Bournemouth University's International Centre for Hospitality and Tourism Research.

Image: Glastonbury - Chris Drake