Controversial barriers blocking the view of Edinburgh Castle have been taken down.

Adam McVey, the leader of Edinburgh City Council, had ordered the removal of the large black screens around Princes Street Gardens down as soon as possible.

On Sunday he tweeted: "This is public space and these are public views.

"Ticketed events cannot put up barriers which are to the detriment of the city."

Mr McVey said he had also asked for a guarantee that the screens would not be erected for any future events in the city centre park.

The barriers had been put up to stop people without tickets watching the Summer Sessions series of concerts this month, which include performances by Sir Tom Jones and Kasabian.

The screens sparked anger among some residents and politicians in the city, with concerns locals and tourists were being disadvantaged by commercial events.

But hours after the row broke out the barriers were taken down.

On Monday Councillor McVey tweeted: "Met Chief Executive & @cllrcammyday on Princes St barriers today. Alternative options to ensure public safety during concerts being explored with organisers.

"Confident public views will be restored but this won't mean folk get a "free" view of the stage, nice try though"