There had been calls for the utility company to follow in the footsteps of Yorkshire Water, who no longer allow burning by their tenants on grouse moors.

Now Scottish Water has confirmed that no new agreements will be issued for burning peatlands on their property.

Previously burning had been permitted as it allows younger, more nutritious heather to be cultivated and serve as a food source for red grouse, boosting their numbers ahead of the shooting season.

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