A private firm has been hired to provide first aid cover for revellers at Edinburgh's hogmanay street party.

Event planners have turned to the private sector, saying the Scottish Ambulance Service cannot find enough staff prepared to do the necessary overtime.

Lothian and Borders deputy chief constable Tom Wood said he was "completely satisfied" with the arrangements.

At a news conference setting out arrangements for the party, he insisted the contractors had a good reputation and the necessary experience.

Be safe, be warm, be happy Tom Wood Deputy chief constable

Mr Wood said: "Last year's event was very successful and this was largely due to the way people acted on commonsense safety advice that was given.

"We want people to enjoy themselves and be safe.

"There will be 900 police and stewards on duty on the night.

"We would ask partygoers to remember these key messages: if you haven't got a Royal Bank Street Party pass, don't come.

"We want this year to be remembered for all the right reasons, be considerate of others, enjoy yourselves and be safe, be warm, be happy."

Survival packs

The Royal Bank of Scotland's Carolyn McAdam also stressed safety was a key concern.

"It is a priority for the Royal Bank that partygoers have a fantastic hogmanay night to remember," she said.

"However with all major events safety is a priority and we have worked with the police to provide free survival packs containing chocolate and water and would advise it is absolutely critical they heed police advice."

Passes to the event arena have been limited to 100,000.

Culture Club and Mercury Music Prize winner Ms Dynamite are playing at what is the 10th anniversary of the city's New Year celebrations.