Principal accepts Poem for Scotland

Winner of the poem for Scotland competition, Scott Martin, presented a framed copy of his prize winning poem "The Ploughman" to University Principal Sir Alan Langlands during a ceremony in the University Chaplaincy on. The presentation of the poem, whose main themes embrace reconciliation and the future in the aftermath of war, marked Remembrance Sunday in the University with an opportunity for reflection on the hopeful message of the poem.

Both the Principal and the University chaplain, Dr Fiona Douglas, were delighted to accept Scott Martin's kind gift. Dr Douglas said, "I believe that the chaplaincy will provide a very suitable home for the poem".

Mr. Martin's poem was originally presented to Sir. David Steel on 17 September 1999 to mark the opening of the Scottish parliament and the last St Andrews day before the millennium. Framed copies of "The Ploughman" in English and Gaelic are to be found all over Scotland in public venues. Copies have also been accepted by the American and Vietnamese embassies as memories of their war are an integral part of the poem and give it a universal resonance.

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