WATCH: Armed officers deployed at Edinburgh's Christmas attractions

Armed police officers have been deployed at Edinburgh's Christmas attractions.

This is the first year this move has been taken but Police Scotland says it is not in response to any specific threat but is part of an overall review of security measures.

The public are being warned that there may also be increased security checks and they are being advised to arrive in plenty of time to allow for this.

A statement from the force says: "Police Scotland is working with event organisers and partners across Scotland in the run up to the Christmas period to give advice and guidance on safety and security measures, taking into account any specific intelligence and the wider threat. Our priority is the safety and security of all those attending or involved, and the public are encouraged to continue with their plans to attend or take part in events as normal.

The current threat level across the UK from international terrorism remains at severe, meaning an attack is highly likely.

Our reporter Hope Webb went to Edinburgh's german market to see what visitors make of the increased security.