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An Aberdeenshire-based house builder expects to shed up to 20 jobs due to a downturn in market conditions.

Scotia Homes, of Ellon, said the decision to undertake the staff review was not taken lightly.

The oil and gas industry downturn is thought to have hit the local housing market.

Managing director Martin Bruce said: "Whilst the exact number of potential redundancies is not yet known, it is not expected that this will exceed 20."

He explained: "It is expected that the property market will eventually adjust itself. However, in the meantime, trading levels in the north east are reduced, therefore it is necessary to conduct this review."