Castle in historic move as pupils roll out Gaelic tours

Gaelic pupils from Tollcross Primary School have become Gaelic-speaking junior guides at Edinburgh Castle.

The youngsters had weeks of training with Historic Scotland and even gave a costumed performance in Gaelic of a 16th-century royal banquet scene in the castle's great hall.

They also gave a guided tour of the hall, presented as a costumed performance, which was filmed to produce an educational DVD for Gaelic learners and speakers of all ages. Minister for Learning and Skills, Alasdair Allan, said: "Gaelic-speaking junior guides are a really exciting development in Historic Scotland's provision for Gaelic learners and speakers visiting Edinburgh Castle.

"It is fitting that Edinburgh Castle, so significant in terms of national identity, is responding to demand.

"The DVD is both entertaining and educational - adults as well as children will get a lot out of this.