Empty streets in Aberdeen during the gale

Tens of thousands of people who hoped to see in the New Year outdoors were forced to go home when bad weather ruined the evening.

Events, including Edinburgh's fireworks over the city and a pop concert, were cancelled late into the evening.

However, city officials said public safety was of "paramount" concern.

Gale-hit Aberdeen was the first to take the decision to cancel its event, which was due to include a concert by Scottish band The Waterboys and was expected to attract about 50,000 people.

I hope that people understand the reasons behind our decisions and had a good night anyway Lesley Hinds Edinburgh's lord provost

Council spokesman Ray Gibson said: "Apart from the obvious risks of electricals and canopies blowing away, there is some scaffolding nearby one of the stages.

"That scaffolding was potentially unsafe. The risk was there that it possibly could have fallen onto the crowd below."

Gales and rain also put paid to the Edinburgh show, which is traditionally one of the biggest Hogmanay events in the world and attracts 100,000 revellers.

It was the first time the event has been cancelled in the past 11 years.

Lesley Hinds, Edinburgh's Lord Provost, said: "The paramount concern in all our minds was to ensure the safety of all the revellers.

'Driving force'

"Reluctantly, this meant that some very difficult decisions had to be made.

"I hope that people understand the reasons behind our decisions and had a good night anyway."

Further events planned for New Year's Day were going ahead without problems, officials said.

Ian Dickinson, Assistant Chief Constable of Lothian and Borders Police said: "Public safety was the driving force behind all decisions taken.

Disappointed revellers leave Edinburgh city centre

"Firstly, structural damage to the stage and water in the electrical systems made the Ross Bandstand unsafe.

"This meant it was necessary to cancel the Concert in the Gardens.

"Secondly, we also had to consider the safety of the wider event. Very high winds were gusting to dangerous levels.

"Structural damage had occurred to buildings and temporary structures. Four stewards had suffered minor injures."

Disappointed reveller Latini Stefano, 42, from Rome, said: "I came to Hogmanay because I know it is a big thing in Scotland, and Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

"I didn't expect this, and I'm very disappointed.

Smiles despite the let-down in Edinburgh

"I can't understand why it was not possible to see beforehand how the rain could affect the event."

In Glasgow, thousands of revellers took to the streets despite the heavy showers of rain and sleet.

The highlight was a massive concert in George Square where 25,000 revellers flocked to see headline act The Proclaimers.

Partygoers in the Highland capital of Inverness and in Stirling were treated to fireworks displays.