And finally…golden hello to Scotland’s first mine

The move is described by the Australia-based company as “a very significant development” as it seeks to advance the plant to full production and persuade potential investors to back larger-scale production.

The Cononish Gold and Silver project was first launched nearly a decade ago but has faced delays as a result of falls in the price of gold, lack of finance and problems with planning permission.

It received planning permission from the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park back in 2011.

The processing trial will now use stockpiled ore to test the marketability and profitability of Scottish gold.

It will target a reported “first pour” production of between 400 and 600 ounces during an initial six-month trial.

Scotgold chief executive Richard Gray said: “It is extremely satisfying to be able to celebrate this significant milestone with some of our long-standing stakeholders.

“The achievement of gold production provides tangible evidence of our progress and we appreciate the support of all our stakeholders.”