New Gaelic cultural centre ready to open its doors

A new Gaelic cultural centre in Inverness is gearing up to host its first events following extensive renovations.

Cultarlann took over the Church of Scotland's former East Church on Academy Street last year, however, repairs and improvement work were required.

The first phase of work on the B-listed building, with its iconic purple doors, is now complete.

A second phase of the project, focusing on the interior of Cultarlann Inbhir Nis, is planned to take place, once funding is found.

Murdo Campbell, a Cultarlann board member, said: "We are delighted that we are able to come back inside and start some of the things we would look forward to doing."

Cultarlann Inbhir Nis is set to host a Christmas pantomime by Fèisean nan Gàidheal on Thursday, with a Christmas festival to follow.

The centre is to provide a space for people to meet socially and use the Gaelic language in a wide variety of activities, including educational opportunities.

Gaelic and Scots were recognised as official languages as part of a range of new measures that came into force on St Andrew's Day.