Green groups slam Andrew air miles

Andrew, dubbed "Air Miles Andy" by his critics, will visit parts of the country in a helicopter while representing the Queen in his official role as Lord High Commissioner to the Church of Scotland's General Assembly.

But his trips come as Kirk leaders consider a report urging members to make "significant lifestyle changes" and fly less to combat climate change.

A royal spokesman insisted the best way to get to some of the locations was by helicopter - a decision made after detailed consideration.

But green groups attacked his travel plans.

Friends of the Earth Scotland's chief executive, Duncan McLaren, said: "Air travel, whether by plane or helicopter, is one of the most polluting forms of transport. If we are to tackle climate change then it is vital that public figures, like Prince Andrew, set a good example for us all."

And the Green Party in Scotland said Andrew had missed an opportunity to set an example.

"This is fairly typical of the kind of warm words we are hearing on the environment, while those in public life fail to lead by example," a spokesman said.

During the Kirk's week-long gathering, the Duke will stay at the Queen's official Scottish residence, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and attend a number of engagements across the country during the week.

The programme includes helicopter trips to Glasgow and Renfrewshire on Monday, Inverness on Tuesday and Aberdeen.