Hogmanay revellers have criticised party organisers after thousands were turned away from a major event that was scrapped due to dangerously high winds.

Ticket holders claimed council officials, police and other officials left the decision too late to axe the event at Stirling Castle esplanade that was to be headlined by the Waterboys when 100mph winds were recorded.

While the clear-up began after successful celebrations in Edinburgh, with more than 70,000 at the street party where the concert was headlined Lily Allen, Aberdeen and Stonehaven where 12,000 watched the Human League perform, revellers in Stirling said they were left disappointed.

Fans were told they would get refund on the £27.50 tickets, but many had already racked up more expense in getting there and for accommodation.

Last year the Stirling party attracted 5000 revellers, 70 per cent of whom came from outside Stirling including a number outwith Scotland as well as from the US.

Main organisers Stirling Council said safety was the key concern after conditions deteriorated on the night and full refunds would be available.

There was a surge of social media surge posts over the cancellation with Rodney Cameron asking Stirling Council why the decision was not made before fans arrived saying "why not post (cancellation) before 60 to 70 cars at castle?".

Chelsea Walker tweeted: "Stood at Stirling Castle for three hours and was first person in line and it got cancelled because 'high winds'."

Skerryvore, one of the acts, posted: "Gutted that Stirling Hogmanay has been cancelled! What to do now?"

A spokesman for Stirling Council said: "The safety of our audience, the crew and the performers is paramount and could not be guaranteed with the exceptionally strong gusts of wind.

"Ticket holders will be fully refunded."

A spokesman for joint event organiser Zisys Events said: "We sincerely apologise for any disappointment and inconvenience caused.

"If you paid by card then you will receive an automatic refund beginning on Monday, January 5.

" If you paid by cash then please return to where you purchased your tickets from Monday onwards."

Elsewhere police praised revellers with just three arrest in the Scottish capital, while the ambulance service had its busiest night of the year.

Chief Superintendent Mark Williams, Edinburgh Policing Commander, said: "Edinburgh has once again set the standard for a spectacular start to the New Year. It's been a fantastic night and the vast majority of people have enjoyed themselves responsibly.

"There were only three arrests at the street party and those were for minor public order offences such a breach of the peace.

"Police officers remain on duty in the city centre as I am sure the celebrations will continue for some time yet.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very safe and peaceful 2015."

Hogmanay was the busiest night of the year for the Scottish Ambulance Service, which dealt with 2,394 calls.

Call volumes were two per cent lower than last year's total of 2,443, however the service experienced intense periods of high demand, managing over 250 calls per hour between midnight and 7am.