The National:

Highland Council has been panned for its plans to illuminate the Inverness Town House and the Ness Bridge for the coronation.

It comes as a new survey reveals that Scots are unlikely to be getting the bunting out with seven in 10 saying they don’t care about the upcoming event.

In a post on Twitter, The Highland Council said: “Ness Bridge and #Inverness Town House will be illuminated for #Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort from 1-9 May.

“Supported by the Inverness Common Good Fund.”

Many social media users criticised the move, with one describing it as a “disgraceful use of money”.

Another added that it was “embarrassing” especially given the city’s association with Prince Andrew who holds the Earl of Inverness title.

The National’s petition to strip the Duke of York of his Scottish title has now amassed more than 3000 signatures.

Locals told us they felt he had brought their area into “disrepute”.

SIGN THE PETITION TO STRIP PRINCE ANDREW OF HIS SCOTTISH TITLE HERE

“Dearie me”, one Twitter user commented, while someone else described the move as a “waste of money”.

It’s not all bad though, with one person suggesting that the colours could be put to a different, and indeed more relevant use – supporting the local football team ahead of a huge match.

Inverness Caledonian Thistle will play Falkirk for a place in the Scottish Cup final at Hampden this weekend.

“Why don’t we say it’s in support of @ICTFC at Hampden this weekend?! A lot more relevant to the people of Inverness”, one social media user commented.

Another person added: “Not fancy putting on some red and blue on for @ICTFC trip to Hampden this weekend. You know support your local team in a big game.”