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Edinburgh University bosses say they will divest completely from fossil fuel companies within three years.

It follows a commitment made in 2016 to be carbon neutral by 2040.

These investment represent less than 1% of the total University of Edinburgh funds under management, which is around £1 billion.

It has decided to use its procurement power to support the transition to a low carbon economy and to divest from the most polluting fossil fuel companies.

To outline the commitment, a £2.5 million investment was immediately removed from firms involved in coal and tar sands.

Professor Charlie Jeffery, the university's senior vice-principal, said: "I'm very proud of the university's decision.

"Climate change is one of the world's biggest challenges.

"Over the past few years, we have thought hard about how to respond to that challenge.

"This change in our investment strategy is a vital step on that journey."

Ollie Glick from Edinburgh University Students' Association, said: "We are delighted with today's announcement.

"Students and the students' association have been passionate about removing fossil fuel investment from the University's portfolio for many years."

Friends of the Earth Scotland divestment campaigner Ric Lander added: “Congratulations to the campaigners who have secured this fantastic victory through their hard work, creativity and commitment.

“Their victory will give inspiration to those campaigning for climate justice in Scotland and around the world.”