Push to have Saltire Memorial replaced

Birthplace of our national flag is 'worthy of special attention'

- BY DOUGLAS DICKIE

SCOTLAND'S leading historian and political figures are among those backing a campaign for a new monument to mark the birthplace of the Saltire.

The Scottish Flag Trust has chosen St Andrew’s Day to launch an appeal to create a lasting memorial in the East Lothian village of Athelstaneford.

A marker was previously unveiled in the village, the site of an ancient battle between an army of Picts and Scots, led by King Oengus II (Angus), and a larger Northumbrian force.

But activists say it has fallen into “serious structural decline” in the 60 years since it was created.

The group wants to see a “new, dignified and lasting monument worthy of Scotland’s national flag”, which is one of the oldest in Europe.

The trust has been backed by civic leaders, faith leaders and the leadership of all of Scotland’s main political parties, who have signed an open letter supporting the campaign.