Scottish star Paolo Nutini will headline an Ullapool music festival later this month, organisers have revealed.

The chart-topping Paisley singer made a personal request to appear, as a thank-you to the Loopallu festival's organiser - who gave him some of his first bookings at the age of just 16.

The sold-out festival, taking place on September 17 and 18, will also feature performances from bands including The Magic Numbers, Idlewild, Turin Brakes and Aberfeldy.

Organisers said that this year's event sold out in record time.

Festival director Robert Hicks said: "Words can't describe my excitement in having Paolo, one of the biggest artists on the planet, coming to headline this year's Loopallu.

"It also marks a welcome return to Ullapool for Paolo who last played five years ago, and coincidently met local sound engineer Graham 'Hutch' Hutchinson who has toured the world with him ever since.

"Once again Loopallu has delivered a world beating headliner, and proves that, at only 2500 capacity, small is definitely beautiful."