A coastal nature reserve at the most northern point of the British mainland which is home to thousands of breeding seabirds has been bought by a wildlife charity.

Dunnet Head, Scotland.

Dunnet Head, Scotland. Image by Jonathan Stonehouse / CC BY 2.0

RSPB Scotland has purchased the 40-acre site at Dunnet Head, Caithness, in the Highlands after receiving a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The charity, which has been managing the site for nearly eight years, said the purchase will ensure the “seabird city” is looked after for generations to come.

The spot boasts 300ft-high cliffs and is home to thousands of birds such as puffins, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars and kittiwakes.

RSPB Scotland site manager Dave Jones said: “Dunnet Head really is an amazing place.

“The views across to Orkney are absolutely stunning, but for us the most important aspect is the breeding seabirds and the opportunity this site gives visitors to see these charismatic birds.

“Many of our seabird species are in serious decline, so it is crucial that their breeding sites are properly protected.”

Dunnet Head nature reserve lies about 13 miles east of Thurso and overlooks the Pentland Firth.

The charity had been leasing and managing the land as a reserve since May 2008 but came to an agreement with previous owner Ben Colson to buy the site.

Mr Colson said: “We owned the land at Dunnet Head for over a quarter of a century and our objective throughout has been to ensure that it is not commercially developed.

“So, whilst sad to be ending our relationship with the headland, we are delighted to have been able to agree this sale with RSPB Scotland, who I am confident will ensure it continues as a place of wild beauty.”

(Press Association)