FM to lay wreath at war memorial on Remembrance Sunday

The First Minister will lay a wreath at the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle to mark Remembrance Sunday.

Nicola Sturgeon is also set to give a reading during the National Service of Remembrance, which will be closed to the public due to Covid-19 restrictions.

She urged people to mark the occasion in their own homes this year.

The First Minister said the coronavirus pandemic meant more traditional commemorations cannot take place, with outdoor events currently banned across much of Scotland.

Traditional remembrance ceremonies, with marches and wreath-laying, are not allowed in areas classed as level two, three or four under Scotland’s Covid-19 restrictions and councils have been given updated advice to make that clear.

Sturgeon said: “Remembrance Sunday is an opportunity for all of us to take time to commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

“It allows us a chance to honour the memory of those who gave their lives in the two world wars and other conflicts while also paying tribute to our veterans and those who continue to serve today.

“Commemorations this year have had to be marked differently because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and we understand it will be disappointing to many people that national services will not be open to the public.

“I am privileged to be able to lay a wreath today on behalf of the people of Scotland.”

Scottish secretary Alister Jack added: “Remembrance Sunday holds a special place in our hearts and in our national life.

“This year’s Remembrance Sunday will feel very different, with the Covid-19 pandemic meaning that we will be unable to gather together to remember as we traditionally do.

“But we must not let these essential restrictions stand in the way of us paying our respects.

“I know people in Scotland, as they will across the UK, will still take the time to think, to reflect, and to give private thanks to all those who have served and fallen.

“We will, individually, take a moment to recognise the sacrifice of all those who have given their lives protecting our country.

“Even in these difficult and unprecedented times, we will remember them.”