A Scottish Government task force will be set up to help support hundreds of workers after drinks giant Chivas Brothers announced plans to close one of its plants.

The spirits producer is investing £40m in upgrading its bottling plant in Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire, and relocating all 450 workers at its Paisley factory to the newly expanded centre.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon met Renfrewshire Council leader Mark Macmillan on Monday and pledged to set up a task force.

Mr Macmillan said: "I was pleased to be able to personally discuss the issues regarding Chivas plans direct with the First Minister on her visit to Paisley on Monday.

"The company has had a long-standing presence in Paisley and while it is hoped all employees will be offered roles in the relocation, we want to be prepared to support where we can to minimise the impact this move will undoubtedly have.

"I welcome the First Minister's commitment to establishing a taskforce which will bring together all parties to work with the council to ensure we can get the best deal for the people of Paisley."

The move from Paisley to the Kilmalid plant in Dumbarton is scheduled to start in 2018 and by the end of 2019 all Chivas Brothers employees based in Paisley would move to the upgraded site, which already employs 600 people.

The Paisley plant, which has been a major employer in the town for decades, would then close.