Search for new national poet begins as Liz Lochhead steps down
The search for a new national poet for Scotland is getting under way as makar Liz Lochhead ends her term.
Ms Lochhead has written poems on a number of subjects throughout her five years in the role, including whisky and theatre, the opening of the fourth session of the Scottish Parliament, the 200th anniversary of works by Wordsworth and Coleridge and Commonwealth Day in 2012.
She has carried out more than 300 engagements, conducting workshops in schools and prisons as well as representing Scotland in the UK and beyond.
Thanking her for her work, Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: Liz Lochhead has brought poetry to every level of society in Scotland without fear or favour.
She has brought vitality, warmth, wit and tremendous talent to the role of makar.
In her time as Scotland's National Poet, Liz has worked astoundingly hard. She has a real conviction that poetry enriches and transforms lives which she bring to everyone she meets.
Liz's work over the past five years has made a lasting and positive impact on many people, in particular the young students she has worked with, and she has played an ambassadorial role for Scotland.
It's fitting that last year she was awarded the Queen's Gold Medal for Poetry, chosen by her fellow poets.
Work is continuing to find Liz's replacement. We have much to thank her for.''
A new makar is expected to be announced in the spring.