Keith named ‘Scots Toun’

A Moray town has been designated the first “Scots Toun” in recognition of t he work done to keep the native language alive.

The bid submitted to the Scottish Government by Keith Community Council included evidence of how Doric is used in everyday life in the Keith community.

Recordings were made of conversations in Mid Street, while evidence was also presented of how the language is used in school assemblies.

SNP councillor for Keith and Cullen Ward, Gary Coull, himself a Doric speaker, said: “We’re fair trickit in Keith tae hiv won this awaard.

“We’re the first toun in Scotland tae get this awaard and fit a great een tae get.

“We dee sae muckle in Keith and Strathisla tae promote oor language

“A huge thanks tae a body that has made this happen”

and it’s afa fine that we’re being recognised for it.

“It’s nae jist a historical language – it’s oor ivery day, livin language.

“Ye hear it aboot the toun ivery day in the shops, the streets, the churches, the squeals and even see it on oor lane names!

“This awaard is anither wye o pittin Keith firmly on the map and tae tell fowk tae tak a keek in by the toun.

“A huge thanks tae a body that has made this happen – in particular the fowk that keep spikkin Scots in Keith.”

Also welcoming the award, Moray’s MSP Richard Lochhead said: “Keeping our traditional languages alive and well is very important for our culture and our identity and this milestone will undoubtedly contribute to that.”