NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Use 10 December 2009 MSPS PRAISE BLACK WATCH Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSPs Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith will be attending the Black Watch Homecoming Parade this Saturday in Perth and have called on the people of Perth and Perthshire to turn out in great numbers to show their gratitude and support to our troops. The Black Watch soldiers will parade through Perth on Saturday 12th December, starting at 2pm from Rose Terrace. The parade will make its way to the High Street via Atholl Street and Kinnoull Street, with the salute taken outside the Council Buildings at 2 High Street. Pipes and drums will play during the parades and the 400 soldiers taking part will be in Regimental colours, and also be accompanied by the regiment's pony. Commenting ahead of the Parades, Murdo said: “It is only fitting that we see great numbers of local people turn out in Perth to salute the courageous actions of the Black Watch, who have once again served our country with bravery and dignity. “The Black Watch is one of the most exceptional and famous regiments in the world. In Afghanistan, the Black Watch proved once again they are one of the best fighting units in the world today. “Every soldier marching in the Parades will be remembering their fallen comrades and their unwavering bravery.” Liz Smith said: “Perthshire, Angus and Kinross-shire have a long and proud history as the recruiting ground for the Black Watch regiment - now part of the Royal Regiment of Scotland. The parades in Perth and Aberfeldy are a great opportunity to show the high regard which we all hold our armed force men and women and their families and to warmly welcome them home from Afghanistan. “With Christmas just around the corner it is also an opportunity to remember those men and women who will be far away from home this year serving our country.” ENDS   back to top of page