AN iconic confection synonymous with the Scottish capital for more than 100 years has been saved from closure after being sold for an undisclosed sum.

Ross's of Edinburgh, makers of the famous Edinburgh Rock, has been bought by a businessman based in the city from the family that founded the firm but had no one who was able to take it over.

The 12-strong workforce at Loanhead-based Ross's had been hoping along with former chairman Graham Ross, great grandson of company-founder James Ross, that a buyer could be found as Mr Ross prepared for retirement.

Businessman James Anderson has stepped in to secure the sweet factory's future and is keeping on the staff.

He was reported as saying: "It's an iconic brand and it would be a shame to just let it go.

"It was really just Graham's age that led to him making the decision to retire and sell up, it [the decision to buy] was about keeping the business going."

Ross's has operated for 135 years and its factory is the only one in the country currently making sticks of Edinburgh Rock.

Classic treats such as pan drops and rhubarb rock are among the firm's other products.

Mr Anderson, said to have a range of business interests across the city, also said: "We would like to expand the product range and promote the business.

"It's a confectionery brand so we'd stick to a confectionery range but just increasing it slightly.

"All we're doing is getting production back up and just fulfilling orders that are outstanding.

"It's a very proud moment. This is a very well established company [and] it's good that the company has been given an opportunity to continue."

He added: "We're looking to maintain the business as it was. We're not looking to invest or hire immediately, we're going to continue as is at the moment."