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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Steph Brawn

Alex Salmond's family issue update on public memorial service

ALEX Salmond's family have issued an update in relation to a public memorial service being held on St Andrew's Day in memory of the former first minister.

Gail Hendry, Salmond's sister, has posted a statement from the family on Twitter/X which says they have been "overwhelmed" at the level of public interest in attending the service.

The family have confirmed the service will be livestreamed from St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh. 

The statement says: "The family are overwhelmed by the level of public interest in attending Alex's memorial service.

"Sadly, we cannot accommodate everyone who would like to attend but are pleased to say that the event will be live streamed from St Giles' Cathedral, with the service scheduled to begin at 11am on Saturday the 30th.

"Further details will be issued nearer the time."

A separate service has been organised in Glasgow on the same day by activist Sean Clerkin. 

This will take place on the Buchanan Street steps at 1pm. 

Clerkin said in a statement: "The people of Glasgow will pay tribute to the life of Alex Salmond, our greatest first minister.

"Many who knew Alex will speak about the good he did for the people of Glasgow and Scotland.

"He devoted his life to Scottish independence and has taken us part of the journey towards our freedom. It is up to the rest of us to complete that journey."

The former first minister died suddenly aged 69 after suffering a heart attack on October 12 in North Macedonia. 

A private family funeral took place in Strichen Parish Church at the end of last month.

Friends and family have said the service at St Giles' would allow people to say farewell and reflect on his life and achievements.

First Minister John Swinney is expected to be in attendance alongside figures from the main political parties of Scotland. Representatives from North Macedonia will also be invited.

Sir Tom Hunter who paid for the flight which brought Salmond home from Macedonia after his death is also expected to pay respects at the service.

Former first minister Nicola Sturgeon has said she will not be attending.

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