Roadworks that form a key part of the new Forth bridge have been completed two months early and £20 million under budget.

Transport Minister Keith Brown has officially opened the upgraded junction 1a on the M9 motorway.

The £25.6m junction is part of better road connections associated with the new crossing. It should also improve links for drivers in West Lothian and north-west Edinburgh.

Mr Brown said: "I am delighted to formally open this upgraded junction two months early and some £20m under the original budget before the contract was let.

"Although a key part of the Forth Replacement Crossing project, it represents a significant improvement to Scotland's road network in its own right."

The new junction was opened just after nominations for the name of the new bridge closed. By last night about 7600 unique suggestions had been made, with Mr Brown saying the naming process "clearly captured the public imagination in a big way". He added: "I'm delighted to see the incredible level of interest that's been shown."