A remote Highland Estate, which can only be accessed by boat or a seven-mile walk, is hoping to attract more visitors and improve conditions for employees with the purchase of a new supply boat.

The owners of the 20,000 acre Barrisdale Estate have been awarded a development grant of £8,300 by Lochaber Enterprise, part of the Highlands and Islands Enterprise network, towards the cost of the £33,000 boat.

The new vessel will provide the Estate's two full-time employees with a reliable link to the rest of the world, securing their long-term employment on the Estate. The Estate manager and his wife, who are responsible for the deer culling, general maintenance and the care of the camping ground, bothy and The White House (the Estate lodge), live on Barrisdale year-round.

With three Munros around the Estate and an abundance of animal and bird life, Barrisdale is popular with climbers and naturalists. Identifying the Estate's popularity as a green tourism destination, Barrisdale owners, John and Robert Gordon established the camping ground and bothy in 1968, and have carried out improvements on The White House and the bothy in recent years offering visitors a choice of accommodation.

John Gordon said: "The arrival of the new diesel powered boat next month is eagerly awaited. It has been manufactured by Malakoff and Moore in the Shetland Islands to Lloyd's small craft construction rules. It is capable of being used in most weather conditions and will provide visitors and employees with a safe means of exit in an emergency as well as normal everyday use."

Jackie Wright, chief executive at Lochaber Enterprise said: "Barrisdale Estate is one of the most remote places in Lochaber but is still popular with those seeking a green tourism experience. The owners have embraced this trend by offering visitors a range of accommodation and ensuring there is a reliable method of transport to Barrisdale.

"More importantly, the purchase will help secure two full-time jobs in this remote location."