A long-distance walkway on Arran has been named one of Scotland's Greatest Trails by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

The 65-mile long Coastal Way, established almost 15 years ago, circles the southern part of the island.

It now joins 28 long-distance routes on the SNH list, including the Great Glen Way and the West Highland Way.

To be included on the list, trails must be at least 25 miles long, have a clearly defined footpath and be largely off-road.

The Coastal Way links 12 villages on Arran and was originally conceived in the 1990s by two local men who had a dream to create a walk around the island's coastline.

Several years ago, the Arran Access Trust (AAT) took on responsibility for the trail and it has overseen recent improvements, with funding from the Coastal Communities Fund.

Malcolm Whitmore, from the Arran Access Trust, said: "Arran Access Trust is delighted the Arran Coastal Way has become recognised as one of Scotland's Great Trails.

"We believe the Arran Coastal Way is the finest walking circuit of an island anywhere in Scotland and look forward to welcoming walkers whether they are completing the whole circumnavigation of the island or exploring a taster section for a day."

Dr Mike Cantlay, SNH chair, said: "We are really pleased to be able to give this much-deserved award to the Arran Coastal Way.

"The Arran Access Trust has worked incredibly hard over the last few years to bring the path up to the high standards required to become one of Scotland's Great Trails.

"Their vision and commitment is a shining example of what communities can achieve when they have a shared vision."

He added: "The Arran Coastal Way is a fantastic outdoor tourism asset and one of the flagship routes in our National Walking and Cycling Network.

"We hope that this great trail will encourage many more people to head out and enjoy our nature and landscapes."