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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Iona Young

Edinburgh community library to showcase touching tribute to Leith legend

A newly opened Edinburgh community library is to showcase a touching tribute made to a Leith legend who sadly passed away this year.

Leith Library reopened on Friday, November 4 after being fitted with new carpets and will now exhibit a portrait of Mary Moriarty, which is normally on display in Leith Theatre.

There is also a condolence book in the library for locals to share favourite memories of the well-loved pub landlady.

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The piece was created by local artist Sarah Muirhead who was saddened by Mary's death and wanted to put the portrait somewhere in the heart of the community to remember the Leith legend by.

The incredible artist behind the special piece wrote a tribute before creating the piece: "I was very sad to learn that Mary Moriarty, Queen of Leith, beautiful soul, kind friend and huge character passed away three days ago.

"She will be sorely missed and I was incredibly lucky to know her. Her generosity and warmth made a huge impression on me. My thoughts are with her family and friends."

A member of staff at the community library shared on Facebook writing: "We are excited to be back open today, following a temporary closure for fitting of new carpets- come in and have a look!

"And delighted to exhibit this wonderful portrait of Mary Moriarty, which is normally on display in Leith Theatre. We also have a condolence book to share your memories of Mary."

Hundreds paid their respects to Mary Moriarty when she sadly passed away on October 3.

Mary’s daughter, Eilidh Moriarty wrote: “A light has gone out in Leith this morning. With a heavy heart, my mum was such a character. The Queen of Leith has left us. Loved by many, Mary, you will be missed."

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Tam Dean Burn, a Scottish actor from Outlander and BBC Scotland’s River City, also paid tribute to Mary online: “So gutted to just hear of the passing of the First Lady of Leith Mary Moriarty. An absolute legend that we’ll never see the likes of again. I wish we could have had one last dance, Mary. Thoughts are with all who love you. Rest in Peace, you beautiful soul”

Leith Theatre also paid tribute to Mary on Facebook: “So sad to hear our Queen of Leith, Mary Moriarty, has passed away today. Rest in peace Mary.”

Other community members, family and friends were paying tributes as well. One woman said: “Sad to hear the passing of Mary Moriarty (Port of Leith). Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time.”

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