Scotland's chief medical officer has resigned after admitting she ignored her own rules around coronavirus and visited her second home twice.
Dr Catherine Calderwood initially issued an apology after pictures appeared in the Sun on Sunday newspaper of her at a house in Fife.
Earlier today, she was backed by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to remain in her job.
However after further conversations with Ms Sturgeon, Dr Calderwood said on Sunday night that she had resigned "with a heavy heart", agreeing the "justifiable focus on my behaviour risks becoming a distraction from the hugely important job".
In a statement, she added: "The most important thing to me now and over the next few very difficult months is that people across Scotland know what they need to do to reduce the spread of this virus, and that means they must have complete trust in those who give them advice."
Dr Calderwood will now work "over the next few days to ensure a smooth transition" to her successor.
The First Minister paid tribute to Dr Calderwood, saying she was a "transformational" chief medical officer (CMO).
Mr Sturgeon said: "It is however clear that the mistake she made - even though she has apologised sincerely and honourably for it - risks distracting from and undermining confidence in the Government's public health message at this crucial time.
"That is not a risk either of us is willing to take.
"Catherine has been a transformational CMO, bringing changes to the way medicine is delivered in Scotland and in particular using her experience to bring an overdue focus to women's health.
"While she has made a very serious mistake in her actions, that should not detract from the fact that as CMO she has made a highly valuable contribution to the medical profession and to health in Scotland, and I have no doubt she will continue to do so in future.
"She leaves office with my thanks and admiration."
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