The second phase of a major flood prevention scheme in Edinburgh has begun.

Contractors started work on flood defences along 1.2km of the Water of Leith on Tuesday morning.

The latest stage will protect Roseburn Park and Murrayfield, which was one of the worst-hit areas during severe floods in 2000.

Around 500 properties along the waterway were damaged when the river burst its banks and boundary walls collapsed.

The project will include the erection of new walls, embankments and floodgates beside the river, as well as two bridges at Baird Drive and Saughtonhall Avenue.

Costs for the first phase of the flood scheme, which focused on Stockbridge Colonies, Warriston, St Mark's Park and Bonnington, spiralled to £12m over budget, totalling £30m.

Contractors McLaughlin and Harvey Ltd were joined by officials on Tuesday to kick off the £25m second phase.

Edinburgh City Council transport and environment convener Lesley Hinds said: "We have been working closely with the community and local stakeholders to ensure they are well aware of the work taking place and to ensure the process goes smoothly.

"It's been great to visit the site to see construction begin and I look forward to all the benefits these improvements will bring to the area."

Martin Curran, contract manager of McLaughlin and Harvey, said: "We are delighted to be working alongside the City of Edinburgh Council in the delivery of this essential scheme.

"Having recently undergone a period of detailed design we are glad to say that the main construction works have begun in various locations throughout the project."

He said his team was keeping in regular contact with the local residents and business to try to minimise disruption.

The project, which will also include landscaping of Roseburn Park and the surrounding area, is due to be completed in early 2018.