ORKNEY is the best place to live in Scotland, according to a new study.

The island, followed by Shetland and the Outer Hebrides,were the top three in a Bank of Scotland survey.

It was also found to be the second best place to live in the UK, replicating last year 's result.

The northern archipelago only narrowly missed the top position to Hart in the South East of England.

Graham Blair, mortgage director at Bank of Scotland, said: "With high employment, low population and traffic levels, as well as having lots to do and see, it's no wonder that Orcadians also have the highest life satisfaction ratings."