A hospice has unexpectedly become the second largest shareholder in a Scottish Premiership football club.

An anonymous donor gifted the Highland Hospice a 19% individual stake in Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

The shares are thought to be worth up to £575,000 and could help the hospice raise £4.5m needed to complete a revamp of its in-patient centre.

A spokesman for the hospice said: "Highland Hospice is now the proud owner of 573,950 ordinary shares in Inverness Caledonian Thistle Football Club.

"This represents 19% of voting rights in the club and makes us the second largest shareholder in a Scottish premier league football team. The donor has chosen to remain anonymous.

"At this stage it is unclear exactly how this shareholding will help us provide the best possible support to patients and families but it is a hugely generous donation."

The Highland Hospice is not thought to be seeking a place on Inverness Caledonian Thistle's board.