A group Syrian refugees living on Bute insist they are happy despite reports that some of them had become depressed with island life.

Fifteen families have been living on the Isle of Bute since December as part of the UK government's commitment to rehome 20,000 Syrians by 2020.

On Thursday, some of them decided to speak out against negative headlines about how they are finding life on Scotland's west coast since leaving the war-torn country.

Khilil, who fled his hometown in Syria with his wife and three children, is one one of several Syrians who have volunteered to set up this weekend's Bute Festival.

He says life on the island is not without its problems, but that locals are helping him and his family to rebuild their lives.

"The greatest challenge is that you have to begin from zero. With the help of the lovely people here and the government in general, help us to stand up on our feet again," he said.

"British society in general has some differences, so we try to get to know their customs and traditions.

"Everything is available, I'm getting all my rights here. There are some difficulties but hopefully, god willing, all of these things will become easier in the future."

However, not all of the refugees have adapted to life in Scotland.

Mohammed, who is living two miles from the main town of Rothesay in Port Bannatyne, says he feels isolated.

He said: "We feel humilated here, I used to have a better life in Lebannon than the life I'm facing here.

"Just being on an island is something which paralyses me.