Alex Salmond hailed as ‘giant of a man’ as hundreds gather for memorial service

Alex Salmond, the former Scottish First Minister, was remembered as a “giant of a man” during a public memorial service in Edinburgh, where hundreds gathered to pay their respects. Salmond passed away suddenly in North Macedonia at the age of 69 in October, leading to an outpouring of tributes from politicians and members of the public alike.

Notable figures such as former Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Scottish First Minister John Swinney were present at the service to honour Salmond’s legacy. The event aimed to celebrate his love for Scotland and his unwavering commitment to the cause of independence. Despite a rift between Salmond and his successor Nicola Sturgeon, who did not attend the service, the event served as a poignant moment to reflect on his contributions to Scottish politics.

During the service, Kenny MacAskill, a long-time friend of Salmond and acting leader of the pro-independence party Alba, described Salmond as an “inspiration” and a “political genius”. He highlighted Salmond’s dedication to the cause of independence as his defining legacy, urging others to continue the journey in his honour.

The crowd at St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh also witnessed emotional performances, including a rendition of the Scottish anthem “Flower of Scotland” and a poignant reading by former Conservative minister David Davis. Scottish folk singer Dougie MacLean and the Proclaimers added a touch of musical tribute to the service, underscoring Salmond’s impact not only in politics but also in the cultural fabric of Scotland.

Overall, the memorial service for Alex Salmond served as a fitting tribute to a figure who played a significant role in shaping Scotland’s political landscape. His passion for independence and dedication to his country left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of Scottish leaders.