Moray 'still has strong future' despite RAF decision

RAF Kinloss in Moray was home to Nimrod surveillance aircraft

Moray business leaders have been told the area has a strong future despite RAF Kinloss becoming an army base.

Under the MoD's strategic review, the RAF will stay at Lossiemouth, but Kinloss - along with RAF Leuchars in Fife - lost its former role.

Representatives from local businesses, the council and community groups met in Forres to share ideas on how to prepare for the handing over of RAF Kinloss.

Local MSP Richard Lochhead said the gap had to be plugged.

He told BBC Scotland: "Every cloud has a silver lining. The community are now coming together and coming up with ideas about the future."

Mr Lochhead said existing businesses had to be supported as well as new investment being attracted.

Defence Secretary Liam Fox announced in July that RAF Lossiemouth would be the only air base retained in Scotland.

RAF Kinloss was home to Nimrod surveillance aircraft before all of those stationed there were retired in 2010.