People from across Scotland are being invited to join a special service to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War next month.

A thousand free places have been made available to members of the public who do not already have tickets for the Drumhead Service at Edinburgh Castle on Sunday August 10.

The multi-faith commemoration will be held before a congregation of almost 9,000 people, including representatives of the armed services, veterans' groups, charities and civic leaders.

The event will replicate services held on the frontline 100 years ago when piled drums with draped Colours were used in place of an altar.

It will be followed by a parade of military bands down the Royal Mile to a replica Commonwealth War Graves cemetery in Holyrood Park.

The service, will mark the start of a five-year programme of commemorations in Scotland.

Eight events from the war that had a significant impact on Scotland will be remembered, including the start and end of the conflict; major battles including Gallipoli, Loos, Jutland and Arras; and domestic incidents such as the Quintinshill rail disaster and the loss of HMY Iolaire.

Norman Drummond, chair of the Scottish Commemorations Panel, said: "We want to invite the whole of Scotland - people of all ages and in all corners of the country - to join us in remembering those who served during the First World War'

"Thanks to the support of local authorities, every part of Scotland will be represented at the Drumhead Service.

"By making a thousand places available to the general public we can be certain that as many people as possible, from all parts of Scotland, have an opportunity to come and commemorate this important anniversary."

Tickets can be requested online from 9am today at www.WW100Scotland.com