School children from across Scotland came together in Edinburgh to celebrate the inaugural First Minister's Reading Challenge.

Around 600 pupils in primary four to seven joined the First Minister at the event, which is part of an initiative that fosters a "lifelong love" of reading amongst Scotland's young people.

The challenge sees young people read from a list of specially-suggested books before filling in a "Reading Passport" and completing a book report.

An exhibition of creative work was on display at the event, and the First Minister awarded a total of 12 prizes to exceptional pieces of work.

Speaking after the event, the First Minister said: "The First Minister's Reading Challenge has been a fantastic success since it was launched last year and it's wonderful to be able to celebrate a love of reading with so many enthusiastic participants!

"Reading is one of life's greatest pleasures, and the Reading Challenge is opening up a world of adventure and fun for young people as well as giving them vital literacy and language skills.

"By working with guest speakers and charities, the Challenge is bringing the community together in a very unique way.

"Developing a love of reading in childhood can have a huge impact on educational attainment and future wellbeing which is why projects like these are so important. I am looking forward to seeing how the Challenge develops in the future."

Programme director at the Scottish Book Trust, Amina Shah, added: ""Encouraging reading for pleasure is one of the most important things we can instil in children because we know the benefits are substantial and life-long.

"This wonderful initiative is an effective way to support schools, teachers and families to make reading for enjoyment a priority and we are delighted to have a part in its success."