Che's daughter to rally reds for May Day march

ORGANISERS of this year's traditional May Day rally are relying on the Guevara-effect to draw in bumper crowds.

The daughter of the iconic Argentinean revolutionary is coming to Edinburgh for the first time to lead the march – and add a touch of celebrity socialism.

The eldest of Che Guevara's four children, Aleida Guevara is a doctor in Cuba and recently appeared in controversial director Michael Moore's film Sicko.

The 49-year-old will address thousands of marchers outside the Scottish Parliament on May 2 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Cuban revolution.

The former socialist MSP and People's Festival organiser, Colin Fox, said: "We are absolutely delighted with getting Aleida to lead the march.

"We had been talking to a diplomat from the Cuban embassy in London and he suggested inviting her as she was doing talks on the 50th anniversary of the Cuban revolution.

"We're really happy that she is coming and hopefully it will attract a bigger crowd than usual."

The May Day march starts at noon on May 2 when it leaves Market Street and heads towards the Scottish Parliament for a rally.

In recent years the city's May Day parades have been led by figures such as veteran socialist Tony Benn, former miners' leader Arthur Scargill, black American musician Paul Robeson Junior and singer Billy Bragg.

The first May bank holiday weekend is set to be a busy one for the Capital.

The Magic Weekend – where 14 Super League teams play seven fixtures on May 2 and 3 – is taking place at Murrayfield, and is expected to draw tens of thousands to the city.

A series of events under the Show Scotland – the Museums and Galleries Big Events Weekend banner are also taking place. One of the main events on May 2 is a Poetry in Motion treasure trail around statues and monuments in central Edinburgh, with the answers being found along the way.

The Edinburgh and People's Story Museums on the Canongate will also take part, with storytellers in character bringing old Edinburgh to life.

Councillor Deidre Brock, the city's culture leader, said: "People of all ages will be spoilt for choice with all the exciting events on offer in Edinburgh during the Show Scotland weekend.

"Poetry in Motion will send participants on a fun-packed treasure trail around monuments in the heart of Edinburgh."