FIRST Scotland East and its Clackmannanshire routes are to be sold to the McGill's Group.

The sale is set to be complete later in September and includes all First Bus depots in Livingston, Larbert, Bannockburn and Balfron.

It also includes the Edinburgh open-top bus operation Bright Bus Tours, all the buses operating in the region as well as around 550 staff.

Duncan Cameron, managing director of First Bus Scotland, said: “I’d like to thank our employees for their continued hard work to deliver the best experience possible for our customers across the First Scotland East business.

“We will be supporting them fully as they transfer to their new employer.

“This sale is part of a strategic refocusing of our Scottish businesses with significant investment in zero emission buses in Glasgow and Aberdeen.

"We’re pleased that McGill’s, who are a trusted Scottish bus operator brand, will take the Scotland East business forward and wish them every success.

“We will continue to operate our services as usual until the handover date, working closely with McGill’s and with our local authority partners, and continuing our commitment to our customers through the service we offer them.”

Owned by businessmen Sandy and James Easdale, McGill’s has invested heavily in its business and services, including the recent purchase of Xplore Dundee from National Express and its partnership with international coach operator FlixBus for longer distance routes.

James Easdale, chairman of McGill's Bus Group, said: “Everyone at McGill’s Group is excited about welcoming Scotland East into our stable and the opportunities that lie ahead.

“Our team are passionate about using our expertise to build the business in the years ahead so we can retain and attract new passengers across the region.

“We’re pleased the opportunity has arisen to acquire the business and we appreciate the efforts of First Bus towards ensuring a smooth transition.”