The opening of Edinburgh's new children's hospital has been delayed for a second time.

NHS Lothian said severe weather was partly to blame for the delays to the Royal Hospital for Sick Children's replacement.

The new hospital at Little France is now expected to open in autumn 2018.

In August this year, the health board said the new building would open in spring 2018.

The initial deadline for the £150m project was autumn 2017.

The earlier delays were caused by two construction companies, the Dunne Group and JB Brickwork, going into administration.

NHS Lothian's chief executive Jim Crombie said several factors had led to the opening being pushed back.

He said: "We established a contract with IHSL Limited in 2015 to build our world class children's hospital and it was due to be completed in July 2017.

"Unfortunately we have suffered unexpected initial delays on site, which included the liquidation of a crucial sub-contractor, severe weather and issues surrounding piling works.

"We remain committed to delivering this flagship facility in a timely manner and to the highest of standards."

He added: "We are working with the contractors to open the hospital as soon as possible and aim for moves to take place by autumn 2018.

"Our forensic work with IHSL and Multiplex will continue through regular meetings over the coming weeks."