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Ross County and Inverness Caledonian Thistle's rise to second and third place in the Scottish Premier League has been described as "incredible".

Dingwall club County and the Caley Jags are level on 41 points, with Celtic topping the table with 62 points.

Highland councillors have praised the clubs' achievements.

The local authority will host a civic reception for County on 25 March in Dingwall to celebrate the club's promotion to the SPL last season.

County beat Aberdeen 1-0 at Pittodrie on Tuesday night to join Caley Thistle in on points, with Inverness remaining second on goal difference.

The two Highland clubs come face to face at Victoria Park in Dingwall on Saturday.

Council convener Jimmy Gray said: "It is terrific to see the two Highland sides doing so well.

"The teams have come a long way in a short time and are a huge credit to the Highlands. They have certainly put us on the footballing map."

Dingwall councillor Margaret Paterson, who is an honorary life member at County, said: "I am incredibly proud of the achievement of our sides.

"My own side, Ross County, have made a marvellous start to their Premier League career and I have to pinch myself to see them sitting near the top of the table."