Competitors gear up for rat race

The race, on Saturday and Sunday, uses Edinburgh's streets, buildings and parklands in innovative ways

Hundreds of extreme sport enthusiasts are expected to descend on Edinburgh to take part in the sixth "Rat Race".

The event is a team challenge involving skills including navigation, running, climbing, mountain biking and kayaking.

The race, on Saturday and Sunday, uses Edinburgh's streets, buildings and parklands in innovative ways.

The hub of the race will once again be the Event Village in West Princes Street Gardens, which acts as the nerve centre for the competition.

Steve Cardownie of Edinburgh City Council said: "I am pleased that Edinburgh is once again playing host to this extremely challenging and exciting race.

"It gives us a great opportunity to show what our city has to offer. The race will showcase some really iconic spots, demonstrating that Edinburgh boasts a natural and man-made environment fit for adventure."