10 August 2017
The First Minister popped up to George Square to thank members of the new Edinburgh Festival City Volunteers scheme.
This new project was launched to welcome visitors to the Scottish capital as the world’s biggest arts festival celebrates its 70th anniversary year.
Inspired by the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Host City Volunteers programme, the initiative brings together 40 volunteers aged between 19 and 79 from across Edinburgh’s communities.
As well as offering visitors a warm welcome and local advice from city residents, the Festivals Edinburgh scheme also helps participants develop their own tourism knowledge and customer service skills.
FM @NicolaSturgeon thanks @VolunteerEdi Festival City Volunteers at @AssemblyFest George Square @edfests @Edinburgh_CC pic.twitter.com/cof83xk5c5
— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) August 10, 2017
The First Minister said:
These volunteers have shown wonderful community spirit and generosity in dedicating their time to showcasing the very best of Edinburgh’s festival spirit, particularly during this special 70th anniversary year.
The fact the volunteers come from such a wide range of backgrounds show that projects like this can make a huge difference in breaking down barriers and promoting inclusiveness, and I am delighted to come along and thank them personally.”
Look who joined our Festival City Volunteers this morning#EdFests #FestivalCity#LoveEdinburghLoveVolunteering @NicolaSturgeon pic.twitter.com/poSW68TYss
— Volunteer Edinburgh (@VolunteerEdi) August 10, 2017
Festival City Volunteer Moira Berry said:
Edinburgh is my city. I was born and bred here and have lived my 67 years here. I’m proud of Edinburgh and want to share my love for the city.
It is a pleasure to chat with visitors and not only give directions on where to get buses or pick up tickets, but just share a special titbit or have a bit of banter.”
After August, members of Edinburgh’s newest community volunteer force will have the chance to take part in other city festivals and events year round.
For more images from the event, check out the First Minister’s Flickr page.