A power station that was once the largest in Scotland has shut down after 45 years in operation.

Cockenzie power station's four turbines stopped generating electricity yesterday, marking the end of an era for the East Lothian site and its operators.

The closure of the station, known for its twin chimney stacks, was part of a decommissioning programme with National Grid.

ScottishPower said many of the station's 100 members of staff will now be moving to other power stations or business areas within the company while some others have opted for retirement or voluntary severance.

Neil Clitheroe, ScottishPower's chief executive officer of energy retail and generation, said: "It is the end of an era for ScottishPower and for the people at Cockenzie power station, who I would like to thank for all of their hard work over the last 45 years."

It is thought that more than 10,000 people have been employed at the site during its working life.

Environmentalists said the closure of the coal-fired plant marks an important energy milestone in Scotland's move to a 100% renewable future.

WWF Scotland director Lang Banks said: "Renewables now generate more of Scotland's electricity needs than either coal or gas.

"A 100% renewable Scotland is not only possible, it's also necessary if we want to ensure security of supply while generating clean electricity."