Rethink anthem

WITH the Six Nations almost upon us and recent calls to make Flower of Scotland the official national anthem (Mail), is it not time the Scottish Rugby Union ( SRU) considered replacing that dreadful, anti-English dirge with Highland Cathedral — a much more positive and cheerful composition?

I think I’m right in saying that the latter is the last tune played before the anthems at Murrayfield, but I think it should now replace — or at the least change places with — Flower of Scotland.

I have heard several different lyrics for Highland Cathedral but those written by Simon Paterson-Brown and Chris Thomson and sung by Scottish internationals past and present (see video on YouTube) — and presumably approved by the SRU — seem perfectly good. The first verse (and chorus) of: ‘Scotland, my country and my land of birth Highlands and islands to the Solway Firth Where e’er I travel and where e’er I roam Highland Cathedral in my heart, my home...’ This is suitably stirring and sets a positive t one which continues throughout. I recently bumped into one of the ‘choristers’, Colin Telfer, the former Hawick and Scotland fly-half, who told me the recording had been done two years ago and I do believe it is now time it took centre stage.

Jim McColl, introducing the rousing finale to the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra’s concert at the Usher Hall a fortnight ago, said: ‘If we’re going to replace the current anthem, Highland Cathedral is my numero uno.’

His comments were very well received and the SFO’s playing of Highland Cathedral, accompanied by the Stockbridge Pipe Band, drew the biggest applause of the night.

Flower of Scotland’s days are in the past. It should be consigned to history. PETER J. MURRAY,

Edinburgh.