Early signs of recovery have been found on an area of protected seabed which was destroyed by illegal fishing in the Summer Isles near Ullapool .

Conservationists say it shows the marine ecosystem is able to repair itself if properly shielded from trawlers and dredgers which drag their gear along the seabed to scoop up catch.

The Open Seas coalition of scientists, activists and some fishermen accuse ministers of delaying action to protect at least 30% of Scotland's inshore waters, and are preparing to present a petition at the Scottish parliament.