Visitors to Applecross in Wester Ross will be able to travel back in time when a new heritage centre opens its doors later this year.

The Applecross Historical Society are behind the new Clachan Heritage Centre, which will preserve and display items of local historical interest, as well as providing an insight into Highland life centuries ago.

The museum will be housed in restored buildings in Applecross, next to the site of the ancient 7th century St Maelrubha's Monastery.

The centre will be the latest addition to a growing number of new visitor attractions being developed in the area, including an impressive footpath network for walkers and new pier facilities for visiting yachts.

Chairman of the Historical Society Alistair McCowan said: "The Applecross peninsula has a great deal of historical interest and value, that has gone largely unrecorded over the years.

"The decision to investigate the establishment of a heritage centre was taken after a local meeting generated a great deal of interest in the history of the area. As a result, we have had an overwhelming response to our call for items to display."

Ross and Cromarty Enterprise (RACE), have approved a £20,000 (pounds) investment towards the first phase £44,000 (pounds) build costs, with matching funding from the European-funded Ross and Cromarty LEADER II programme.

The Applecross peninsula has been identified as a priority area for RACE due to its geographical isolation, declining population and relatively high levels of unemployment.

Head of community development at RACE Jackie McGuinnity said: "Attractions like the heritage centre will not only encourage more visitors to the area but will also help increase their length of stay. This will have a positive impact on the local economy which is highly dependent on a vibrant and successful tourist industry.

"Projects like this also encourage local communities to actively participate in the promotion and enhancement of their culture and heritage."

The Applecross Estate Trust has been very supportive and contributed to the development by providing a suitable site and buildings for the Historical Society, and by assisting with the preparation of plans for the project.