Edinburgh calls off Hogmanay parties as gales and rain roll in

Edinburgh's famous New Year's Eve street parties and fireworks display have been cancelled because of heavy rainfall and gales.

- Severin Carrell Jem Bartholomew

Hogmanay festival organisers said the high winds and rain expected to hit the city made it unsafe to hold any of the outdoor events planned for last night and tonight.

These included the fireworks display from the castle, a concert headlined by the band Texas and a party on Princes Street.

"We know that this will be hugely disappointing to all hoping to celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh and that people travel from around the world to be here at the home of Hogmanay," the organisers said.

Jane Meagher, the leader of Edinburgh council, said numerous indoor events were still taking place.

These included a concert headlined by Idlewild and a candlelit concert at St Giles' Cathedral.