A CIVIC celebration sidelined for two years has been recognised in the Scottish Parliament.

Haddington Festival was among the events postponed or forced to downsize during the Covid-19 pandemic.

However, volunteers were delighted to welcome back the week-long celebrations earlier this summer.

Paul McLennan, East Lothian MSP, was elected during the pandemic and had previously been unable to attend many of the traditional celebrations due to nationwide restrictions.

He lodged a motion, backed by South Scotland MSP Martin Whitfield, in the Scottish Parliament welcoming the return of the event.

It reads: “That the Parliament congratulates all involved in organising the successful Haddington Festival opening ceremony and parade, which took place on May 29, 2022; understands that the festival took place in person for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic and was attended by hundreds of community members; congratulates recipients of the Haddington Local Hero award; notes the efforts of volunteer organisers in making the day a success, and wishes continued success for the festival in 2023 and beyond.”