Portrait of Margo MacDonald unveiled in Scottish Parliament

Margo MacDonalds legacy within Scottish politics has been commemorated as a painting of the late politician was unveiled. Picture; Andrew Cowan

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A PORTRAIT of the late Independent Lothian MSP Margo MacDonald has been unveiled at the Scottish Parliament.

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Painted by popular Scottish artist Gerard Burns and gifted to the parliament by Margo’s husband Jim Sillars, the picture shows her with the Holyrood chamber in the background and will hang in the former bar - now renamed the members’ room - where she used to meet with friends from across the political spectrum.

The painting was unveiled by Deputy Presiding Officer, Christine Grahame, who was a long-time friend of Margo’s. She said: “I am delighted that her dedication to the parliament is being honoured with this portrait. Her sheer passion for politics and for the causes she championed will always remembered, as will her dynamic, colourful and compassionate nature.

“I count myself lucky to have known someone like Margo and to have worked so closely with her. This portrait is a way of showing future Members and visitors to the Parliament just what she meant to us all.”

Mr Sillars said: “In many ways Margo was a unique person and politician, and an inspiration to those who sought to advance the cause of Scotland. Our family is pleased that her portrait will be hung in the Parliament to whose life and development she contributed with a talent that was exceptional.”