Children leave heartfelt greetings for locked-down friends across Scotland

Oscar viewing a message left for him by a friend in Glasgow. | Other 3rd Party

Youngsters separated from their classmates and pals during the lockdown have left chalked messages for each other outside their homes and schools.

Despite many of them having mobile phones to call and video chat with each other, some have been inspired to leave personal messages on pavements.

Children have been unable to see each other for five weeks – and face many more weeks of separation before they are allowed to meet up and play together again.

A street greeting to raise a smile in Glasgow. | Other 3rd Party

Hazel, whose daughter started leaving notes for her friends in Glasgow, told The Scotsman: “It was a way for friends to stay connected and make people smile while walking by.

“Little acts of kindness to keep us all smiling while adjusting to our 'new normal'.”

Sophia, another primary school pupil who has been leaving messages for her friends in Glasgow, said they were “more special” than phone calls.

A cheery greeting on an Edinburgh street. | Other 3rd Party

She said: “I miss my friends and family a lot.

“After my friend Mia left me a message, I decided to do one in return and for my other friends.

“Leaving little notes is a nice way to stay on touch.

“Even though we have phones, chalk messages seem more special.

A heartfelt message left for a classmate in Glasgow. | Other 3rd Party

“I take chalk with me for my one walk a day so I can write hello to any friends whose houses I pass.”

Some families have also set up book-swap boxes outside their homes.

It has enabled children running short of reading material to start a new book while donating some of their own.

A family message in Cambuslang. | Other 3rd Party

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A message left outside a house in Glasgow. | Other 3rd Party

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