A Black Watch soldier has had an emotional reunion with his 14-year-old daughter after she flew to Scotland from Africa following a lengthy immigration row.

Lance Corporal Denis Omondi endured a five-month battle with the Home Office to allow Ann to move from Nairobi to Inverness after an initial application was rejected.

Local MP Drew Hendry raised the issue personally with the Prime Minister and the Home Secretary and the case was reviewed and overturned, allowing Ann to undertake the 18-hour journey.

She arrived at Inverness Airport on Thursday night where she was met by her family amid emotional scenes.

Denis said: "I just feel proud that I've achieved what I wanted - to have Ann here. At least now I know she's safe and we will take good care of her.

"I am so happy. We want to say thanks to all the Scottish people and my mates down in England who are serving for all their support."

Denis' wife Shelagh added: "It's been a big battle for us - it's amazing to have Ann here. It's so good to know she's safe and with her dad and he's not stressed out and worrying about her."

Asked what she wants to do now she is in Scotland, Ann said "I am looking forward to working hard, building a career ... accomplishing my dreams ... everything."

But top of the list was to see her new bedroom in her new home. She said: "I can't wait actually."

A British citizen originally from Kenya, Lance Corporal Omondi has undertaken tours of Afghanistan, Iraq and Cyprus during his eight years of military service.

He said: "We have plans for school and stuff like that - we have been in touch and she will have an interview to see where they can place her in second or third year.

"We have a lot of young people here waiting to meet Ann and show her around - it's going to be a culture shock, but she'll manage."

Mr Hendry said "We were all really excited to finally meet Ann in person and to see her reunited with her dad and Shelagh.

"It's an incredible case that's gone from heartbreak to heartwarming and has really caught the attention of the public and rallied their support."