The festive season has been extended in the Highlands thanks to a pigeon which has made its home in a Christmas tree.

Council staff discovered the bird's nest when they went to remove the tree, which is on display in the centre of Fort William.

They found the bird had laid an egg in the nest and as a result the council has said the tree will not be taken down until it has left.

The tree's lights will be switched off and a sign will be put up to explain the situation.

Lochaber committee chairman Thomas MacLennan said: "Although the pigeon is not a protected species, myself and fellow ward members councillors Baxter, Gormley and Murphy decided to leave the bird in peace.

"Who knows, by next Christmas there might also be four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in our Christmas tree."