Highland Council

Thousands of pupils have been returning to classes at schools in the Highlands on what would have been their last full week of the summer holidays.

Eight primaries out of 203 schools across the Highland Council area have not opened, including Mallaig, Tore and Kyleakin.

The local authority said staff were working hard to have all schools open by 18 August.

It said those not open on Wednesday would do so once cleaning and health and safety checks were done, adding: "Safety and well-being is paramount for children and staff."

BBC

Highland Council is to ask for Scottish government help to deal with what it described as "uncontrolled camping".

Councillors said many areas of the region had been "adversely affected by a huge increase" in people camping where there were no facilities, such as public toilets.

They said the situation posed a potential public health risk and may not improve even after the reopening of campsites, adding: "Future demand from 'staycationers' may well outstrip any possible supply of campsite spaces".

To reduce the health risk councillors have suggested increased waste collections, better traffic management, restrictions on alcohol consumption and financial support for beach or countryside wardens, temporary toilet and handwashing facilities.