ADVANCE 'loan' payments based on 2018's Less Favoured Area Support Scheme claims will begin to arrive in farmers and crofters' bank accounts in the coming days, ScotGov has announced.

In total, 6083 farmers and crofters will receive money under this payment tranche, adding up to more than £39 million, with further payment runs being made in the coming days and weeks.

Eligible farmers and crofters will receive up to 90% of their LFASS 2018 payment under the loan scheme, which was announced earlier this year by Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing.

“I believe we must help those who need help the most, which is why I am pleased to confirm that the first tranche of the national LFASS loan payments will begin to arrive in bank accounts in the coming days," said Mr Ewing. “This money will provide a cash injection worth £39.45 million into the rural economy, providing a degree of certainty to those 6083 recipients enabling them to plan for the year ahead.

“I would encourage anyone who has yet to accept a loan offer to consider it carefully and respond as soon as possible," he added. "The sooner we have confirmation of your loan acceptance, the sooner we can get this vital money out to you.”