Human bones have been unearthed by builders at an Edinburgh primary school.

The remains, thought to be from the 17th century, were uncovered during an excavation over the Easter break.

The dig was part of investigative works for a new classroom building at St Mary's RC Primary School in Leith. The area where the remains were discovered has been fenced off but the school remains open for pupils.

Mary Bainbridge, acting head teacher at St Mary's Leith RC Primary School: "The school is very excited about the educational opportunities that the archaeological work on site may present and I have already been in discussion with the council's archaeologist about the different ways the pupils will be able to engage and the experiences that can be offered."

Archaeologist John Lawson said: "The skeleton was uncovered as part of a carefully planned excavation.

"This seems to be the site of an unknown, unmarked grave dating to the 17th Century.

"It is thought the burial, outside the original Edinburgh town borders in Leith, may be a plague victim but further analysis needs to be undertaken."

Edinburgh City Council culture convener Richard Lewis said: "Edinburgh has such a rich history and the skeleton at St Mary's is yet another astonishing archaeological find.

"The council will work with Morrison Construction to further investigate the site."