Sturgeon urges Scots to spread some cheer

First minister thanks festive volunteers and public sector workers in her Christmas message

Scotland’s first minister has thanked festive volunteers and public sector workers in her Christmas message.

Nicola Sturgeon and the country’s other political leaders offered special thanks to emergency service workers, many of whom will be on duty over the festive period.

Ms Sturgeon’s address praised those who give up their time for others and urged people to “spread some Christmas cheer” by volunteering or “by being a good neighbour or friend”.

Filmed in her official residence of Bute House, with a Christmas tree and saltire in the background, the first minister called for Scots to be “especially thankful” for those still working in the public sector over the festive period.

She said: “This Christmas many of us will be looking forward to taking a break and to spending time with friends, family and loved ones.

“Many people will also take the time to help others, for example by volunteering for charity.

“In doing so, they will be helping to provide things like food, support and companionship to those who need it most.

“That kind-heartedness and solidarity is vital throughout the year – but it is especially important at this time of year.

“Of course, for many Christmas isn’t a holiday at all – for example, for the people in our NHS and indeed all of our public services.

“Your efforts are appreciated all through the year, but they are particularly appreciated at Christmas time.”

Scottish Conservative leader Jackson Carlaw issued his Christmas message at the end of what he said had been a “hard year” for the country.

“It’s hard to think of a Christmas season when all of us across the UK have needed the break more acutely,” the Tory MSP said.

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie paid tribute to those working in the public services, hailing “our hardworking NHS staff who will be there for us on Christmas Day should we need it”, thanking “the police and fire service workers who never take a day off” and also “the postal workers who make sure that Christmas arrives on time and everyone else who keeps Scotland ticking”.

Many people will take the time to help others... that is vital throughout the year but especially important at this time of year. NICOLA STURGEON