An innovative home insulation system to make houses more energy-efficient is being manufactured in a new factory in Aberdeen.

Matilda's Planet, on the Northfield Industrial Estate, will supply insulation for Aberdeenshire's £160m housing improvement programme over the coming years.

The insulation system - Matilda's Blanket - is said to be especially suited for stone and granite homes as it does not involve exterior cladding.

The plant is the third factory opened by the not-for-profit company in the UK and will employ locals who have been unable to find work elsewhere.

Kevin Stewart, minister for local government and housing, visited the site on Friday.

He said: "I am delighted to be here today to open this new facility.

"Earlier this week the Scottish Government announced our new Energy Efficient Scotland programme, setting out our vision for all buildings in Scotland to be warmer, greener and more energy efficient.

"Innovative solutions offered by Matilda's Planet Scotland will help us achieve that goal and we are thrilled to welcome them to Aberdeen. I welcome the work being done here and the investment in local people."

Matilda's Planet founder David Evans explained how the company was inspired by his daughter.

He said: "When my daughter Matilda was five, she told me to save the planet.

"A small request, but a noble goal to which I have devoted my time and resources.

"People need warm, dry, healthy homes, the planet needs us to be energy efficient and eco-friendly and Matilda's Planet provides both."