The assistant chief executive of a major Helensburgh and Lomond land owner has been appointed to a senior role with a group representing the interests of land owners all over Scotland.

Patrick Colquhoun, from Luss Estates, has been appointed the new vice chair (policy) for Scottish Land & Estates (SLE).

Alongside chairing the organisation's national policy group and acting as an external representative for SLE, he will guide policy development and political standpoints.

Mr Colquhoun said: "The work of Scottish Land & Estates in representing the interests of rural businesses is hugely important and I’m looking forward to contributing towards that in the coming months and years.

"It is vital that policies that reflect the needs of Scotland's rural communities are high on the agenda for politicians and SLE will continue to ensure that rural voice is heard.

"Our members deliver a fantastic contribution for the benefit of people, jobs and nature and we want to build on that in partnership with others."

Helensburgh Advertiser: Patrick Colquhoun has been appointed the new vice chair (policy) for Scottish Land & Estates

Outside of his new role, he is the assistant chief executive and part of the family ownership of the Luss Estates Company, a major land owner across the Helensburgh and Lomond area.

Here, he deals with policy, planning, and strategy for the estate, communicating with stakeholders such as Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, NatureScot, local authorities and the central government in decision-making for the business.

Since 2016, Mr Colquhoun has been directly involved with Luss Estates, where he previously served as a director for more than a decade.

He also serves as an elected member of Luss and Arden Community Council and a director of Luss and Arden Development Trust.

Within SLE, he will work closely with chairman Dee Ward, chief executive Sarah-Jane Laing and director of policy Stephen Young in representing the interests of members.

This comes as new legislations including bills on land reform, agriculture, wildlife management and muirburn, natural environment, and housing are on the rise.

Mr Ward said: "We are delighted to welcome Patrick to his new role.

"His extensive experience within land and rural businesses, as well as his dedication to community engagement, make him an excellent addition to our team.

"We look forward to his contributions to our policy work."