It has been described by bird watchers as 'seabird city' for its thousands of breeding seabirds and other species.

Now Dunnet Head, the most northernmost mainland spot in Scotland, has been safeguarded for the years to come after the RSPB Scotland bought it.

The deal went ahead after the charity received a £40,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The dramatic coastal headland of Caithness, which boasts 300 feet-high cliffs, is home to breeding seabirds like puffins, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars and kittiwakes.

RSPB 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 sites 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.

The nature reserve lies on the dramatic coastal headland of Caithness, 13 miles east of Thurso and commands striking views across the Pentland Firth, towards the Orkney islands.

The conservation charity has been leasing and managing the 40-acre site as a reserve since May 2008, but has come to an agreement with previous owner, Ben Colson, to buy what it hopes will be a popular showcase for the country’s marine wildlife.

Mr Jones said: “Ben Colson and his family have cared for Dunnet Head for many years and, like Ben, we wish to see this amazing seabird city looked after for future generations to enjoy.”

Mr Colson noted that despite the sadness of ending his family’s relationship with the site he is “delighted to have been able to agree this sale with RSPB Scotland” who he is “confident will ensure it continues as a place of wild beauty.”

Lucy Casot, Head of HLF Scotland, said: “Our natural heritage is a most precious resource and, thanks to National Lottery players, HLF grants have helped to protect an amazing range of landscapes, habitats and species of plants and animals. HLF is delighted to support the Dunnet Head Nature Reserve project that will stimulate people’s interest in the natural world and so help them conserve it for future generations.”

The project will see new leaflets detailing the natural and archaeological heritage of the site produced for 2016 and guided walks carried out during the visitor season to enhance the visitor experience at RSPB Scotland’s most recently acquired nature reserve.

The headland includes a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of the seabird colonies which nest on the red sandstone cliffs.

It is home to three per cent of Britain's kittiwakes and one per cent of its guillemots.