Scotland's First Minister has said she is targeting an "overwhelming" win for the vote to remain in the EU.

Nicola Sturgeon will be at the forefront of the SNP in Europe campaign which she has pledged will be "progressive and upbeat".

The SNP leader is expected to argue during a speech in London on Monday that Scotland and the UK should seek to reform the EU from the inside rather than be a voice outside.

She will say: "The Scottish Government believes that EU membership is in the best interests of Scotland. As such the Scottish Government will make a positive, constructive case for remaining in the EU.

"I believe that we benefit from being part of the EU, and the EU benefits from having us a part of it.

"For more than 40 years, membership of the EU has been good for the prosperity and well-being of individuals, families and communities across the country.

"I want the vote on June 23 to result in an overwhelming victory, across all parts of the UK, for remaining in the European Union. I will campaign wholeheartedly to achieve that result.

"And although my main role will obviously be to campaign in Scotland, many of the points I'll be making are of course also relevant to the debate across the UK."

Speaking to an audience of around 700 people at St John's Smith Square, Ms Sturgeon is expected to add: "It's clear that being a member of the EU has its benefits, but with any institution improvements can be made.

"If we are to influence positive change in Europe, we must remain within the EU - only that guarantees a role in the EU decision-making processes on issues that affect our everyday lives."