Glens, lochs and isles battle to be Scotland’s next national park

Glen Affric in the Highlands has joined more than 10 rivals in bidding to gain the new status - and the benefits that go with it

Glen Affric in the Highlands is home to deer, ospreys, otters and one of Scotland's largest Caledonian pine woods. Often described as one of the country's most beautiful glens, its scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife are such that it is protected as a national nature reserve.

Now, local community groups have launched a bid for it to become Scotland's third national park, in a race which has so far seen more than 10 other areas also submit theirinterest.