Lochhead Inspired To Join SNP

Scotland's national poet Liz Lochhead has been inspired by new First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to join the SNP. Ms Lochhead, Scotland's Makar and one of the country's most celebrated living poets, praised the inclusive'' approach to politics Ms Sturgeon has adopted since succeeding Alex Salmond. Meanwhile the SNP leader hailed the poet asan inspiration to many'' and said she was delighted she had now joined the SNP. While nationalists failed to win a majority for independence in September's referendum, the party has seen a surge of support since then. Its membership has risen from some 25,000 prior to the independence ballot to now stand at more than 92,000. Ms Lochhead, who was appointed Makar in 2011, said: I've been inspired by Nicola Sturgeon talking about a new style of leadership and a new inclusive type of politics; I think she has a very real chance of achieving that."The referendum campaign was amazing and now only the SNP offers a prospect of challenging the establishment and the status quo. I've voted SNP in the previous half dozen or so elections so I felt it was about time that I joined.'' Ms Sturgeon said: I am delighted that Scotland's Makar Liz Lochhead has joined the SNP. During the referendum campaign, Liz was an inspiration to many across the movement and I have no doubt she will have helped bring many undecided voters over to Yes."The referendum transformed politics in Scotland forever - and as a result the Scottish public is more politically engaged than ever before. With membership rising from around 25,000 on referendum day to over 92,000 today, there has never been a better time to get involved with the party that stands for Scotland.''