A long-serving Highland councillor swore at his neighbour in a row over trees.

Roddy Balfour called George Byers a "stupid old b*****d" in the village of Croy in March 2015.

The Culloden and Ardersier councillor became involved after a concerned constituent told him the protected trees were being cut down by Mr Byers.

Mr Balfour went over to take photographs and asked him: "What are you up to now, you stupid old b*****d?"

He was reported to the Standards Commission and faced a hearing at Inverness Town House this week.

The councillor admitted making the comments, explaining he was "experiencing personal difficulties" and was "under considerable strain due to a heavy workload".

Mr Balfour said he "lost his temper" and "should not have used the words he did" but argued his comments were "not obscene" and said he should not have to apologise.

He was censured by the Standards Commission panel, which found Mr Balfour had breached the councillors' code of conduct as he was acting in an official capacity when he made the comments.

Panel chairwoman Julie Ward said: "Councillors must comply with the code and must treat members of the public with respect when acting in the capacity as councillors."