Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron has urged the Scottish government to ramp up its support of care homes, after it emerged they have now overtaken hospitals in terms of Covid-19 deaths across Scotland.

Mr Cameron said: “Although the figures in the NHS Highland region remain thankfully relatively low compared to other areas, these Scotland-wide figures are very concerning, and should act like an alarm bell.

“I would urge ministers to do everything in their power to assist our care homes given the key part they play in the health system at all times, by easing the strain on councils and the NHS, and by helping ease bed-blocking.

“Reports indicate that testing in care homes remains patchy and we need to take action now to keep protect lives both here in the Highlands and Islands and elsewhere across the country.”