CRAIG McFarlane and Nicola Shepherd try out some experiments before launching this year's Edinburgh International Science Festival.

The event, which runs from April 5 to 20 in venues across the city, will host shows and workshops for children and talks by scientists such as Richard Wiseman and Hermione Cockburn. It will also include GastroFest, a mini festival on the science of food and drink.

Amanda Tyndall, Deputy Director of Edinburgh International Science Festival, said: "This year's Science Festival will see hundreds of the best and brightest minds in science and technology gather in Edinburgh to debate and celebrate some of the biggest and sometimes controversial ideas in science.

"For two weeks the city is a melting pot for discussion."

Picture: Stewart Attwood