A drawing of Nicola Sturgeon photobombing Oor Wullie will feature on the front of the First Ministers official Christmas card this year.

The snowy scene sees Wullie wearing black dungarees and sitting on his famous upturned bucket, with Ms Sturgeon peering round the side of his shed.

Oor Wullie and the Broons celebrated their 80th anniversary this year. The classic comics first appeared in The Sunday Post in 1936.

The First Minister said: “Oor Wullie is a much-loved national treasure, adored by both children and adults across Scotland.

“His witty banter and mischievous character have been keeping people entertained for generations, and the marvellous artwork and timeless storylines mean that everyone recognises a little of themselves in these classic tales.

“I am delighted that on Wullie’s 80th anniversary, Peter and Morris have created a unique illustration for my 2016 Christmas card.

“Christmas is a time when we can all take a moment to slow down and spend time with our family and friends. However I also hope over the next few weeks people can take time to give comfort, companionship and support to those who need it. The charities chosen to benefit from this card are a reminder of the work done by others who do this valuable work all year round.”

The original festive image, which features an illustration by Peter Davidson and text by Morris Heggie, will be auctioned next year, with proceeds going to The Archie Foundation, AiMBA, Christine Witcutt Memorial Fund and The Dixon Community.

Artist Peter Davidson said: “I feel very honoured to have been asked to design this Christmas card. Oor Wullie has amused and delighted Scotland for over eighty years and hopefully this scene captures some of that joy.”

Writer Morris Heggie said: “The adventures of Oor Wullie have entertained Scots for eight decades and in that time the mischievous scamp has become a much loved national treasure. I am delighted that the First Minister wanted to include Oor Wullie on her Christmas card.

"I feel very fortunate to be the cog that currently takes this iconic strip forward and am delighted that the wee laddie from Auchenshoogle is getting such recognition in the year of his 80th anniversary.”

Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron's Christmas card was designed by eight-year-old Lily Parkin, a pupil at Heron Hill School in Kendal.

It depicts a dog in a Santa hat asleep in a crescent moon also wearing a red and white bobble hat.