A ground-breaking new group which will help shape a prosperous future for rural Scotland held its first meeting yesterday.

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs Richard Lochhead chaired the inaugural meeting of the Rural Development Council in Dunkeld.

The council includes a number of individuals who will bring a broad range of expertise on rural matters to the table with the aim of developing policy and advising the Scottish Government on how rural communities can contribute to Scotland's sustainable economic growth.

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Mr Lochhead said: "I am delighted to see that we now have a forum where the rural voice can be heard at the heart of Government.

"I want to see the Rural Development Council play a central role in shaping a long-term national strategy for rural Scotland and empowering communities to feel better about themselves and their future.

"Its members draw on a wide range of experience from various walks of life, including the farming sector, environment interests, housing, tourism and the economy."

Mr Lochhead said the meeting represented the first chance for a diverse group of voices to get together and take the first steps in shaping a prosperous rural Scotland.

"As Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs I will take a keen interest in the ideas and advice which the group will generate, with a view to ensuring rural Scotland is fit for both the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century," he concluded.

(GK/JM)