Hogmanay celebrations on Stirling Castle's esplanade have been cancelled due to high winds

A live outdoor concert had been due to take place on the esplanade with music from The Waterboys, Skerryvore, JJ Gilmour and Model Aeroplanes, followed by a fireworks display to welcome in 2015.

However the event has been cancelled as high winds mean public safety could not be guaranteed, police said.

The joint decision was taken following a mutli-agency meeting.

Chief Inspector Paul Rollo, Stirling policing commander, said: "Hogmanay is one of the highlights of the year in the city, and the joint decision to cancel the street party was only taken after lengthy discussion and deliberation with the organisers.

"We prioritise the safety of people attending an event and with the poor weather conditions right now with winds far stronger than expected, unfortunately this could not be assured. This event has been planned for some time and the conditions have deteriorated on the night.

"People with tickets who are on their way to the castle should not attend as they won't be admitted. Many other premises in the city may have ticketed events and so please do not assume you will be able to get into another venue.

"Buses and taxis are running to get you home safely. Police remain in the city centre to assist revellers welcoming in the New Year, and we would remind them to do so with respect for others."

A spokesperson for Stirling Council said: "Obviously this is the last thing we would want tonight but the safety of our audience, the crew and the performers is paramount and could not be guaranteed with the exceptionally strong gusts of wind.

"Ticket holders will be fully refunded."

No ticket holders had been admitted to the esplanade area when the event was cancelled.