An Inverness-shire craftsman has celebrated a decade of success by expanding his business to meet growing demand for his high-quality furniture.

Ten years after starting out in a converted steading by his Abriachan home, furniture designer and cabinetmaker Gavin Robertson has just opened a purpose-built workshop equipped with the latest machinery.

Over the years demand for commissioned pieces and the range of standard furniture produced by Gavin Robertson Furniture has steadily grown as the quality of the company's work has been recognised.

The company has recently completed joinery projects for comedian Billy Connolly's home at Candacraig House, in Deeside, and for the owners of  Dalcross Castle near Inverness. The new workshop was designed to enable the company to produce larger commercial projects such as a new ticket desk at Urquhart Castle and specialist project joinery work.

In addition to the workshop, the new 100sq m building at Easter Altourie, Abriachan, near Inverness houses a showroom, where clients can meet Gavin, discuss design ideas and view completed examples of his work.

Gavin employs two cabinet makers, Scott Miller and James McKeachie. Scott was Gavin's first apprentice and has now become his principal cabinetmaker. James is in his final year of a modern apprenticeship.

Inverness and Nairn Enterprise chief executive Stuart Black said: "We were delighted to assist Gavin with his expansion plans to meet the demand for his high quality furniture. Also we welcome the fact that his skills are being passed on through his additional workforce."

Gavin Robertson said: "My company prides itself in producing original designed  furniture of the highest quality. The workshop is Highland-based, but works nationally and we have produced furniture for people and companies all over the UK.
A recently completed commission was a range of furniture for a home in Antigua."

The firm's anniversary and workshop opening was marked on Saturday by a visit from local MP, Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy.

Mr Kennedy said:  "It's always encouraging to see a business located in the Highlands which is trading successfully, not only in the Highlands and Scotland but overseas too.  The quality of Gavin's design and workmanship is truly outstanding and it's not surprising that his furniture is in demand both at home and abroad.  I am pleased he has been able to gain the backing of Inverness and Nairn Enterprise for this new workshop.  I am sure it will prove to be invaluable for his continued success in the years ahead."