An innovative new project that allows people living in remote areas across the Highlands and Islands in Scotland to work from home has been launched.

The government-funded development body, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has been working with business services provider Arise UK and its client, Shop Direct Group, to find skilled people to take part in the new project.

The latest recruitment round has taken place on the island of Bute, one of the most beautiful but poorest parts of the Scottish Highlands.

Former sales rep Ron Turner moved back to the island from Cumbernauld and now works 30 hours a week handling customer requests and orders from home.

He said, "Really you can work from anywhere as long as you have broadband and a phone. Being able to choose which hours to work is also a real benefit. I just can't stress just how strong an opportunity this is for people who want to work in rural areas or who have other commitments."

Arise UK has a four-year contract with Shop Direct Group, the UK's largest home shopping organisation. Brands that are included in the line-up include Kays.