YOUNG climbers are launching their own national team for a fast rising branch of the sport.

Speed climbing - a one-on-one race - is already taken seriously throughout Europe .

Now two of the UK's best young speed climbers - Scots Alexander Bosi, 18, and Ian Bownes, 15 - are to head up a new squad that will compete on an international stage.

The team was launched at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena at Ratho.

Climber Neil Reid said: "It is an exciting sport that is attracting more and more young people."

Picture: Julie Howden