The north east of Scotland is to benefit from 500 new jobs created by a Norwegian oil and gas firm.

Aker Solutions, which has five projects in the North Sea on the UK continental shelf, is expanding.

Aker already employs 2,700 people in Dyce and Portlethen, around Aberdeen, and announced the creation of 350 new Scottish jobs last year.

These 500 jobs will contribute to the firm’s plans for at least 9% a year growth until 2015.

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First Minister Alex Salmond, who was on an official visit to Norway to explore renewable energy possibilities, said oil and gas were still "vitally important" to the Scottish economy.

He said he was "delighted" at the announcement. "Our oil and gas sector remains a vitally important part of the economy, generating jobs and prosperity, and the Scottish government, Scottish Development International and our enterprise agencies are determined to support the ambitions of overseas investors and Scottish companies."

Aker Solutions President Leif Borge said: "We are experiencing activity growth in both the UK North Sea and international markets. Our objective is to provide an even better level of support to our customers, which will enable us to win more work and capitalise on the expected market growth. Hence we are investing in our operation in Scotland."

(NE)