Remote rural areas get 5p fuel cut

Motorists in some of Scotland's most rural mainland areas are now paying less for fuel.

A 5p per litre cut has come into effect for residents in 13 of the country's most rural areas, including parts of the Highlands and Argyll and Bute.

The scheme has been in place for the Hebrides, Northern Isles, and islands in the Clyde since 2012.

Community groups in remote areas have welcomed the change.

Earlier this year, the UK government announced that following EU approval, the 5p rebate already given to islands was being extended to remote areas on the mainland.

Prices will reduce at the pumps from Sunday, with garage owners able to claim back the shortfall from the Treasury.

The UK government said the new locations were selected because of the high prices of the fuel available and the expense of transporting petrol and diesel to fillings station in the areas.

Alison McLeod, a volunteer who helps run the Applecross Community filling station in Wester Ross, welcomed the reduction.

She said: "The cost of living is very high in remote rural areas and one of the factors is the amount we have to pay for fuel.

"We also have to drive long distances anywhere - the nearest supermarket is a four-hour return journey, the local high school is a 90-mile return trip."

Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Damian Hinds said: "Fuel is often more expensive in very rural areas, even though cars are more of a necessity.

"However, people in 17 areas ranging from the Highlands to Devon will now be able to buy cheaper fuel, making travelling to work and school far easier."

The Highlands postcodes involved are: IV54, IV26, IV27, PH36, IV22, PH41, KW12, PH23, PH19, IV21 and IV14.

The Argyll and Bute postcodes are PA80 and PA38.

Four rural areas of England will also benefit from the change.