苏格兰首席大臣亚历克斯·萨尔蒙德2013年圣诞祝辞

2013 Christmas Message from Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond

I’d like to send my very best wishes to all of you for this Christmas period.

I’m at the Erskine Home in Bishopton, one of five of their homes across Scotland, which provide superb care for more than 1000 ex-servicemen and women, people who have done their bit for all of us, and who now need a bit of support.

The first of these Erskine Homes was founded in 1916, for people who had lost their limbs during the Great War. Since then, Erskine have helped tens of thousands of veterans.

Each of the purple stars on this Christmas tree of honour includes a handwritten message for an absent loved one. It’s a lovely way of remembering people who have been lost in conflict, and of showing support for those still serving overseas.

Next year, when we mark the centenary of the start of the Great War, we will reflect on the sacrifices made by a previous generation of servicemen and women, and we’ll also think about those who are currently in the armed forces.

For many of them, Christmas and new year isn’t a holiday at all. We’re grateful for their valour and dedication at all times of the year, but we’re especially grateful over this festive period.

I also want to pay a particular tribute to our emergency services. Less than a month ago, we were reminded once again of their professionalism and their courage as they worked to rescue and treat those affected by the Clutha Vaults helicopter tragedy.

That tragedy was and is a cause of great grief and sorrow. However, the response of our emergency services should be a source of pride. So should the way in which so many ordinary people came together to offer support: the individuals who rushed to help at the scene of the crash; the businesses which offered assistance; the queues of people who lined up to give blood.

They demonstrated the very best of Glasgow and of Scotland through their empathy, their solidarity and their compassion.

Those values are important at all times, but they’re especially important at Christmas. I know that many of you will spend some time over the next few weeks giving comfort, companionship and support to those who need it, whether it’s by helping a charity, or simply having a cup of tea and a chat with a neighbour who is on their own.

I thank everyone who is doing their bit to bring Christmas cheer to others.

And wherever you are, in Scotland or overseas, at work or at home with your family, I wish you, us, everyone, all the best for a very happy Christmas. And God bless.