A Scottish ski instructor has died in a "tragic accident" in the Alps.

Aaron McLean is understood to have suffered fatal injuries while instructing young skiers in the French mountain resort of Avoriaz on Thursday afternoon.

The 26-year-old grew up in Hillend in Edinburgh and was a co-founder of ski group British Freeride, which specialises in off-piste snowsports.

Fellow founder Rob Kingsland said: "Aaron was inspirational. He had an amazing energy and passion. All he wanted to do was share his love of the mountains with everyone."

Sports governing body Snowsport Scotland also paid tribute to Mr McLean.

In a statement the organisation said: "It is with great sadness that we are informed today of the sudden death of Aaron McLean from a tragic accident in the Alps yesterday afternoon.

"Aaron, a talented back country skier, coach, and man of great enthusiasm and infectious energy was immensely instrumental in the formation of British Freeride last year; the organisation that has created our Junior Freeride Coaching Pathway.

"Aaron was also behind the inspirational award-winning backcountry skiing movie Late.

"Our thoughts and sympathies go out to his family and close friends and we hope his legacy will live on through the continued activity of British Freeride."

The exact circumstances surrounding Mr McLean's death have not yet been established.