Rural communities get £5m for high-speed broadband

Remote communities are to benefit from a £5m fund set up to ensure they can access high-speed broadband.

Community Broadband Scotland is intended to act as a one-stop shop for rural groups, with advice and information on better services.

The first round of funding will focus on a small number of projects intended to be used as an example for others.

The Scottish government said it wanted Scotland to have a world-class broadband infrastructure by 2020.

Infrastructure and Capital Investment Secretary Alex Neil said: "Broadband should not be considered a luxury in rural areas.

"It is essential to enhance the quality of life and stimulate the growth of the local economy.

"This investment of £5m over the next three years will see targeted support being provided to community projects to enable them to deliver broadband solutions for their areas."