First Minister Alex Salmond has unveiled funding for repair works to the runway at Sumburgh Airport.

The work will bring the lifeline connection for the Shetland Islands back up to standard.

Mr Salmond said the agreement for the main contract, worth up to £12m, and will see the repairs get underway, was to ensure quick progress can be made.

He explained: "The runway at Sumburgh is a gateway to Shetland and the residents rely on the air connection for both personal and economic reasons. It is essential that another bad winter does not result in the runway deteriorating any further and this lifeline connection is maintained.

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"The Scottish Government aims to work with HIAL and Shetland Islands Council to ensure that the works can be completed on time without disruption to services. During 2014, Shetland will focus prominently in Scotland's Year of Homecoming and it is essential that everything is done to afford the welcome our visitors deserve.

"This announcement demonstrates that the Scottish Government is delivering on a national and local level for communities in every corner of Scotland. "

Mr Salmond added: "Our summer cabinet programme will show that communities across the country contribute in different, but equally important ways, to Scotland and that each is treasured by the country as a whole, bound together by a set of shared values and a common economic aim.

"Throughout the programme, we will demonstrate that, from the very tip of Shetland to the Borders town of Hawick, each unique community has its part to play and its own stake in the future of Scotland."

Over recent years, the east runway at Sumburgh Airport has suffered extensive damage as a result of extreme weather conditions, with part of it collapsing into the sea. It is planned that works will begin over the summer to ensure they are completed before winter arrives.

(JP/CD)