Deals worth an estimated £40 million over the next decade have been announced by First Minister Alex Salmond during a trade mission to China.

Seven Scottish firms struck agreements which will create jobs while expanding business interests in China.

At an event in Beijing, Mr Salmond said: "From developing the oil and gas fields of the North Sea to producing the highest quality food and drink, from harnessing wind, wave and tidal power in our world-leading renewables industry to developing some of the world's most popular video games, Scotland has innovation in every corner and a huge amount to offer China.

"Today's announcements, worth £40 million to Scotland over the next decade, demonstrate the demand in China for Scottish expertise and quality products in a host of industry sectors, with significant partnerships showing the real benefits to both countries of our expansion into the Chinese market."