The Torchlight Procession traditionally kicks of Edinburgh's Hogmanay but this year it had the added honour of being the first official event of Scotland’s Year of Homecoming 2014.

A group of Up Helly Aa vikings led thousands of torchbearers through the city centre to the top of Calton Hill where they were joined by an estimated 35,000 spectators to enjoy a huge bonfire and spectacular fireworks display which lit up the night sky.