SNP parliamentarians will continue their tradition of wearing the “White Rose of Scotland” as they attend Holyrood to mark the opening of the fourth session of the Scottish Parliament.
SNP MSPs will be accompanied by their local heroes, recognising constituents who have made outstanding contributions to their communities.
First Minister Alex Salmond will be joined by two pupils from Turriff Academy – Daniel Astridge and Connor Shepherd who were awarded Turiff Young Citizens of the Year in recognition of their fundraising efforts whilst Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will be joined by 81 year old Jean Michie a community activist from Kinning Park in Glasgow.
Scottish Nationalists wear the rose made famous by Scots poet Hugh McDiarmid in “The White Rose of Scotland” at Westminster and Holyrood openings. The verse states:
“The rose of all the world is not for me
I want for my part
Only the little white rose of Scotland
That smells sharp and sweet – and breaks the heart.”
Commenting SNP Group Convener Gil Paterson MSP said;
“This fourth session of Parliament is one of great opportunity for Scotland and great responsibility for the SNP.
“From day one of the Scottish Parliament our aim has always been to represent the needs and interests of people from all parts of Scotland and to put their interests first.
“Inviting local heroes to join the ceremony tomorrow and take part in events around parliament allows all MSPs to recognise the achievements of those who make a real difference in the communities we represent.
“Wearing the white rose symbolises our commitment to moving Scotland forward and as we look to the future of Scotland SNP MSPs will continue to ensure the voices of all of Scotland’s people are heard loud and clear in
Holyrood.”
Edinburgh resident Muriel Williams will be amongst hundreds of guests from across Scotland to take part in the Riding of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile tomorrow as part of the festivities to mark the opening of the fourth term of the Scottish Parliament.
The 78 year-old, from Laichpark Place in Edinburgh, will be the guest of Lothian MSP, Sarah Boyack, in recognition of her charitable work over the past two decades to raise awareness of accessible transport issues.
Speaking ahead of the Opening Ceremony Sarah Boyack MSP said:-
“The opening of the Scottish Parliament is a chance to celebrate the many achievements of the people of Scotland and I am looking forward to welcoming Muriel on the day.
“Over the last two decades Muriel has dedicated herself to improving access to transport for disabled and elderly people helping them to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence.
“Through this work she has provided a lifeline to many people across the Lothians giving them the opportunity to get out, meet new people and take part in activities they might not otherwise be able to.
“This work makes Muriel a real local hero and I hope she enjoys her visit to the Parliament.”
Muriel Williams said:-
“All of the charitable work I have done over the last two decades has been about raising awareness of the barriers some people face in accessing transport and the opportunities it brings.
“I am delighted that this work is being recognised as part of the Parliament’s opening ceremony as I have been lucky to be involved in some outstanding organisations with some great volunteers and colleagues. This has made me doubly determined to continue that work moving forward.
“It is a big honour to be asked to take part in the Riding and I am really looking forward to the day.”
