Scottish party leaders have paid tribute to the thousands of emergency service employees working this Christmas. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar and Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater issued separate messages on Wednesday.
Sarwar also told the country “hope is just around the corner”. Slater paid tribute to those volunteering at homeless shelters who are “doing all that they can to spread some relief and make life that bit brighter for others”. Sarwar said: “To everyone in Scotland and across the globe, I hope you have a Merry Christmas.
“Christmas is a time of celebration and relaxation; a time for people to come together and remember the importance of family and community.
“A time to reflect on the last year and to look ahead to the potential that the future holds. Above all, it is a time to remember that even in the depth of the dark winter – new light and hope is just around the corner.
“For all those working hard to support those in need this Christmas, I want to send my sincere thanks and admiration. And I want to send a special message of thanks and appreciation for all of those across our emergency services and armed forces who will work throughout the festive period to keep us safe.”
Meanwhile, Slater encouraged Scots to think about emergency service workers and those alone this Christmas.
She said that while the festive season is a time of cheer for many, it was difficult for others.
Slater said: “The festive period can be a time of celebration and cheer, but for many it can be difficult. It is a natural time to think about our cherished memories and about those who we miss the most.
“There’s no right or wrong way to feel. It can be a time when families and friends come together in joy.
“But for others it is a time when feelings of loneliness, isolation and loss can be greater than ever.
“For a lot of people today will be a day of work. Whether it is the doctors, nurses and care workers in our hospitals or the firefighters and police officers prepared to respond to a crisis, every one of these workers should be in our thoughts and given our gratitude.”
To sign up to the Daily Record Politics newsletter, clickhere