DOUGLAS Chapman MP has sought to reassure 'anxious' EU residents living in West and Central Fife following the EU Referendum.

He has written to more than 1,000 people to remind them that their rights to live and work in Scotland will remain unaffected in the immediate future.

The letter follows the fall-out from the Referendum in which a large majority of people in Scotland voted to remain in the EU, despite the overall UK result being Leave.

There are 1183 self-identifying EU nationals registered as living in Dunfermline and West Fife. Mr Chapman is contacting each of them by post.

Mr Chapman, whose constituency covers Crossgates, Hill of Beath and Moss-side, said: "Following this result, I am conscious that many EU citizens living in Scotland may be feeling anxious and unsure about the future.

"I am writing to them to give reassurance that despite the referendum result, their right to live and work in this country will be unaffected in the immediate future.

"These people enrich our culture, strengthen our society and benefit our economy."

In the letter he states: "I write to thank you for choosing to make Scotland your home and to reassure you that you remain welcome in your community and in Scotland, and that your contribution to our society is valued.

"In the days, weeks and months ahead, you may have questions about your rights and about Scotland’s future in the EU.

"As your Member of Parliament, I am keen to ensure I am available to help you with any questions you may have.

"There are 173,000 citizens of other EU countries living in Scotland and the Scottish Government is currently exploring ways to protect the country's place in the European Union."

The letter is available in over 20 languages, including Polish, Italian, Lithuanian and Swedish.