Moray economy action plan launched amid RAF job fears

An RAF Tornado squadron at Lossiemouth will be disbanded

An action plan is being launched to stimulate the Moray economy - over fears about the impact of RAF job losses in the area.

The airfield at RAF Kinloss will cease to operate after 31 July and RAF Lossiemouth's future remains uncertain.

A decision on RAF Lossiemouth, and that of RAF Leuchars in Fife, will be announced after the Scottish elections in May.

Moray Council, businesses and community groups are involved in the plan.

Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil is visiting Forres to unveil the blueprint.

The Scottish government said it was determined to support the Moray community now and in the long-term and to ensure that everything is done to help its economy grow.

RAF Lossiemouth's 14 Squadron and XIII Squadron from Marham in Norfolk will be disbanded, but the base's future remains uncertain.

Earlier this month Moray Council said it was to appeal for help to improve transport links, which it said are vital if the area's economy is to survive RAF cutbacks.

The authority agreed to seek assistance from both Holyrood and Westminster for a series of upgrades.

They include improvements to the A95 and A96 trunk roads and more frequent trains to Aberdeen and Inverness.