The last three months have seen property prices in Scotland soar, according to new figures.

Data published by Lloyds TSB Scotland suggested that there has been an "unusual price spike" across the country, with home prices in locations such as Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen rising at an unexpected rate.

A sudden increase was attributed by the bank to seasonal trends combined with a rush by new home owners to sign up for low fixed-rate mortgage deals following recent increases in the interest rate.

The Bank of England has increased the interest base rate four times since August, the last hike being earlier in May, which brought the rate to its highest level in six years.

Donald McRae, chief economist for Lloyds TSB Scotland, observed: "The rate of increase of house prices in Scotland has shown a significant surge in the latest quarter.

"Average prices are some three quarters of the UK level and continue to be propelled by a combination of favorable economic background and demand for houses exceeding the supply."

Meanwhile, average house prices in Edinburgh were found to have passed the £220,000 mark for the first time according to the bank's figures.