A global advertising chief has voiced his backing to Scottish newspapers – describing them as an “essential component” of public life.

Sir Martin Sorrell, left, founder and chief executive of advertising giant WPP, has spoken out in support of the industry in a new video produced for the Scottish Newspaper Society.

It highlights information from recent audience analysis and the economic impact study carried out for the SNS last year.

The video also contains contributions from Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen Asset Management, and Scottish Government chief marketing officer Clare Smith.

In the video, Sir Martin said: “Advertisers in Scotland should benefit from healthy Scottish news brands just as Scotland as a whole benefits from them. Newspapers are an essential component of Scottish public life, with a value that goes far beyond the commercial.”

SNS director John McLellan said: “We are extremely grateful to Sir Martin, Clare and Martin for supporting this project and for their vote of confidence in the Scottish industry.

“More than ever it is vital that misconceptions about the news industry are challenged and their important contributions will help us do just that.”

The video, featuring Scottish TV presenter Angus Purden, was showcased at the Scottish Press Awards yesterday evening.