The impact of the coronavirus crisis on local government finances in Scotland is to be investigated by a Holyrood Committee.

The Scottish Parliament’s Local Government and Communities Committee will explore which council services have been most affected by the pandemic, and which have been the most resilient.

It will also invite views on how soon the sector will return to normal and how service delivery may change in the future.

Committee Convener, James Dornan, said: 'Council staff have risen to the challenge and there are many positive stories to share – for instance on how councils worked with others to help homeless people and rough sleepers during the lockdown.

'However, the impact of COVID-19 will likely be felt for years and the full extent of the financial implications, and the ability of councils to provide these vital public services, remains unclear. We therefore want to hear views on what can be done to help councils weather the financial storm, in the short and long-term.'