| The lucky youngsters — who were born on the same day as the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on July 1, 1999 — were invited by presiding officer Alex Fergusson to take part in a joint 10th birthday celebration at Holyrood today.
The Dundee partygoers consisted of Claypotts Castle pupil Jake Porter, Murron Ross, of St Vincent’s Primary, Sean McClean, of Hillside, Rebecca Ley, of St Mary’s in Lochee, Sarah Patullo, of Fintry Primary, and Kai Bateman, of Ancrum Road School.
Special guest at the Edinburgh bash is the Queen and it was the chance of meeting one of the world’s most famous people that was proving the biggest birthday thrill for the Dundee contingent.
Broughty Ferry lad Jake Porter said he had been given permission to open his birthday presents early so he was fresh for the big day at the parliament.
He said, “I opened them last night because I wasn’t going to have time today. I have never been to the Scottish Parliament and I’ve never met the Queen.”
Dryburgh girl Rebecca Ley was also into her presents early ahead of her date with royalty. She said, “I have one of them already — a new bike — and I also got new sandals.
“The party is at 10.15am which is the same time I was born at. I’m looking forward to it but my best friend said she was going to miss me.”
Birthday girls Murron Ross and Kai Bateman said their friends were envious of their chance to meet the Queen.
Murron said, “They wanted to come,” while Kai — who got money, a jacket and bangles as her main presents — said her chums were jealous of her unusual birthday celebration.
However, excited Fintry girl Sarah Patullo said her classmates already moved in high society.
The youngster — who is a keen gymnast and ice-skater — told the Tele, “Three of my friends said they had already met her.”
Video game fan Sean McClean was also looking forward to his big day out.
His mum Amanda said he was excited about taking part in the various activities being put on by the parliament for the birthday bash.
Meanwhile, Montrose girl Poppy Church will also be heading for the party as she was born 10 years ago today.
A blue dress with pink accessories is Poppy’s choice for her royal appointment though all the excitement has meant she forgot to practise her curtsey.
“It was a great thrill for her when the invitation came in,” said her mum Janice, accounts administrator at Rossie secure unit for juvenile offenders. |
