The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Bucket list: First Minister Nicola picks Oor Wullie for official Christmas card
A festive illustration of “national treasure” Oor Wullie will feature on the front of First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s 2016 official Christmas card.
In the snowy scene, Wullie is sitting in front of his shed with the First Minister peering round the side after leaving a present for him.
Ms Sturgeon unveiled her official card at The Vine in Dundee yesterday morning.
The original illustration by Peter Davidson and text by Morris Heggie will be auctioned next year and the proceeds will be shared between four charities: The Archie Foundation, SiMBA, Christine Witcutt Memorial Fund and The Dixon Community.
This year, Oor Wullie and The Broons celebrate the 80th anniversary of their first appearance in the Sunday Post in March 1936.
Davidson and Heggie have produced the weekly Oor Wullie and The Broons cartoon strips for many years, having started work with publishers DC Thomson in the 1960s.
Peter went on to have a successful career as a freelance commercial artist. Morris stayed with the Dundee-based company, retiring from the editorial offices in 2015.
Ms Sturgeon said:“Oor Wullie is a much-loved national treasure, adored by both children and adults across Scotland.
“His witty banter and mischievous character have been keeping people entertained for generations, and the marvellous artwork and timeless storylines mean that everyone recognises a little of themselves in these classic tales.
“I am delighted that on Wullie’s 80th anniversary, Peter and Morris have created a unique illustration for my 2016 Christmas card.
“Oor Wulie has been a big part of my childhood and I still read the comics in the Sunday Post every week.”
Mr Davidson said: “I feel very honoured to have been asked to design this Christmas card. Oor Wullie has amused and delighted Scotland for over 80 years and hopefully this scene captures some of that joy.”
Mr Heggie added: “I am delighted that the First Minister wanted to include Oor Wullie on her Christmas card and also that the wee laddie from Auchenshoogle is getting such recognition in the year of his 80th anniversary.”
The final posting date for first class UK mail this year is December 21, just two weeks away.
Oor Wullie has been a big part of my childhood and I still read the comics in the Sunday Post every week.
NICOLA STURGEON