Sparks fly at festival finale

UP to 10,000 people turned out for the climax of the Dussehra festival with three huge effigies being burned atop Calton Hill.

Celebrated around the world, the annual event is one of the most popular festivals in the Hindu calendar and yesterday's spectacle marked the city's 16th year hosting a celebration.

The burning of the three 30ft effigies, which were built by prisoners at Saughton and represent the evil king Ravana and his henchmen, is traditionally the centrepiece of the ancient festival and signifies the triumph of good over evil.

A parade featuring pipe bands from schools across Edinburgh left from Castle Esplanade and marched along the Royal Mile before the effigies were set alight.

Entertainment was provided by Edinburgh belly-dancing group Twisted Tails, and classical dance from Dundee's Bharatiya Ashram, as well as Indian food served up by Banana Leaf of Glasgow.