A bronze sculpture in memory of Army pipers killed in conflict has been unveiled.

The eight-foot sculpture has been mounted on a cairn outside the Army School of Bagpipe Music and Highland Drumming in Edinburgh.

It is a lasting monument to recognise the sacrifice of all pipers and drummers who have been killed, including the estimated 500 who lost their lives in the First World War.

Sculpted by Alan Herriot, the bronze piper was transported from the city's PowderHall Foundry and lowered and fixed into position ahead of its official unveiling at a ceremony on Sunday.

The 300kg sculpture is based on a number of piping instructors currently serving at the school, and is dressed in a non-regimental specific dress uniform to represent all Army pipers.

Commenting on the piece, Major Steven Small, director of Army bagpipe music, said: "Throughout history pipers and drummers have been inspiring their comrades through unswerving devotion to duty under the most testing of circumstances.

"Their honour is now formally recognised and properly remembered.

"It is with great pride that we see this fitting tribute to pipers and drummers completed."

Major Small said the exact number of pipers and drummers who died in conflict is not known, but upwards of 500 were killed and 600 wounded during the First World War.

He said that in the past they played a role giving signals to soldiers, and they continue to use music to inspire, entertain and provide a dignified laying to rest for fallen colleagues to this day.

"It is just as important, if not more important now, to the Scottish soldiers to have the pipes and drums, and I think it still inspires them, drives them on, reminds them of their unit, their identity, and of course reminds them of home."

The school itself offers a centre of excellence where pipers and drummers from all established pipes and drums receive tuition. It was established in 1999 when the Army School of Bagpipe Music merged with the Piping and Drumming Wing.