Welcome to the nation’s family

New British citizens sworn in

Youngsters from Larkhall Academy were last week among the first pupils in Lanarkshire to witness an emotional citizenship ceremony.

The S1 children were at South Lanarkshire Council’s headquarters as a group of people from all over the world became British citizens.

As part of a pilot monarchy project, the social studies class had been invited along to watch the commitment being made by those who chose to settle in the UK.

Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, Lady Susan Haughey, said: “I am delighted with the response from the schools in Lanarkshire who have committed to our monarchy project, and the attendance of the schools at the citizenship ceremonies reflects that.

“It is my intention, as the newlyappointed Lord Lieutenant, to promote the Lieutenancy and engage with the entire community, providing them with the information on how we can serve them.”

The ceremony was conducted by registrar Carolyn Mcguire, assistant registrar Dawn Hamilton, South Lanarkshire Provost Ian Mclellan and Deputy Lord Lieutenant Margaret Morton.

Citizens taking part in the ceremony are each asked to state either the Oath of Allegiance or Affirmation of Allegiance to Her Majesty The Queen and her heirs and successors.

Deputy Lord Lieutenant Margaret Morton spoke to the new citizens and said: “By promising to become British citizens you will be involved in decision-making, and be active citizens within your community, which also brings with it being an upright citizen.”

Provost Ian Mclellan said: “It is a tremendous honour to be here and I am delighted that you have chosen South Lanarkshire as it is a wonderful place to stay, live, work, and play.”

They were all asked to stand and make their oaths before going to collect their certificates from the assistant registrar, with the music to Flower of Scotland playing in the background.

Later, they all joined in singing the national anthem, God Save the Queen.

Larkhall Academy pupil Carly Montague (12) said: “We weren’t quite sure what to expect, but it’s been really interesting to see.”

Isobel Mcallister (12) said: been really nice to be a part of.” “It’s

Positive Isobel Mcallister (12) and Nathan Moody (12) 150318citizenship_05

Official Deputy Lord Lieutenant Margaret Morton, Ines Coelho (33) with her father Jose and Provost Ian Mcallan 150318citizenship_02

Delighted Deputy Lord Lieutenant Margaret Morton, Sanjeevan Sihra (34) with Provost Ian Mcallan 150318citizenship_03

Appreciation S1 social studies pupils from Larkhall Academy are joined by South Lanarkshire Council Provost Ian Mcallan to witness the ceremony 150318citizenship_04

Honoured Carly Montague (12) and Fabby Miccoli (13) 150318citizenship_06