The Scottish fisheries minister has urged the UK Government to fill a £60m funding gap he says will be created after Britain leaves the EU.

Fergus Ewing, who pledged to be a "champion" for the fishing industry, told a conference in St Andrews that he would explore "all options" to protect Scotland's position after Brexit.

The European Maritime Fisheries Fund (EMFF) currently provides cash to fishing businesses and coastal communities.

Mr Ewing said: "The sea fishing industries are major players in Scotland's economic powerhouse, contributing hundreds of millions to the economy and safeguarding local jobs in some of our most remote communities.

"We need to protect these interests and it is my view that they can be best served by exploring all options to protect our relationship with the European Union.

"EU membership has provided significant guaranteed funding supporting over 1200 projects which have safeguarded in excess of 8000 jobs.

"I have called for the UK Government to extend the EU funding guarantee to be extended to cover £60m of EMFF funding that is vital to the rural economy and communities.

A spokesperson for the UK Government said: "Fishing is an absolutely vital industry for Scotland's economy, which is why the UK Government is working closely with the sector.

"The Scottish secretary met the Scottish Fishermen's Federation last week to discuss their priorities as we prepare to start negotiations to leave the EU.

"We have been clear that we are taking a 'Team UK' approach to getting the best deal for Scotland and the rest of the UK as we leave the EU."