The group paid a visit to Ashley Ann Ltd (AAL), AGM Batteries, Dunnet Bay Distillers and met representatives from both Wick Harbour Authority and Scrabster Harbour Trust – all organisations that have received support from HIE.

A business breakfast was also held at the Thurso Newton Room with a wider cross section of businesses.

As one of HIE’s account managed companies, AAL is the biggest private sector employer in Wick.

Formed in 1986, it manufactures kitchens, bathrooms and bedroom furniture.

Board members met directors Scott and Gavin Bremner who highlighted the company’s growth over the years, including its recent expansion into the former Caithness Glass Factory building in Wick.

Carroll Buxton, interim chief executive at HIE, said: “We are delighted to have hosted the HIE Board in Caithness. The visit provided us with a great opportunity to hear about business and community issues and allowed us to see first-hand some fantastic projects in the area.

“It is heartening to see some of the local businesses we visited offering incentives including training and work placements to encourage young people to stay in the area. We are very pleased to be able to support these projects and look forward to continuing to work with the company on its growth plans.”