A new group which will find ways to tackle fuel poverty in Scotland has been established.

The Scottish Rural Fuel Poverty Task Force is meeting tomorrow to explore the issues facing people in fuel poverty and will prepare a report on its findings over the next year.

It aims to make heating homes easier and more affordable for people in rural and remote parts of the country.

Latest statistics found 39.1% of households in Scotland are in fuel poverty.

In rural areas such as Orkney, 58% of homes have difficulties in heating their houses.

Scottish Housing Minister Margaret Burgess said: “People in rural areas can often struggle to heat their homes because their properties tend to be more exposed to wind and weather and are more expensive to heat as the majority are not connected to mains gas supplies. It is unacceptable for people to face these fuel poverty challenges just because of where they live.”

The Task Force, which includes 22 members, has been set up for a year and is expected to meet at least every two months.