Drumlanrig: Swapping the doric for French in Donside

Preparations for the by-election in Aberdeen Donside to replace the late Brian Adam are up and running. Picture: Contributed

So far the only Nationalist figure to have put himself forward for the seat is Mark McDonald, a North East Scotland “list” MSP, who fancies upgrading to become a constituency MSP. That leaves a space open for the next man on the SNP’s list; a community councillor called Christian Allard (right). If he does take the chance, Monsieur Allard will become Scotland’s first MSP from France; he moved to Aberdeenshire 25 years ago. As he moves seamlessly into his new job, perhaps he will enlighten people over what is French for Buggins’ turn.

Will honey replace Marmite at Holyrood?

Whispers are growing around Holyrood about The Succession – ie, when or if Alex Salmond hands over to the Chosen One, Nicola Sturgeon. The Ipsos Mori poll last week has only added to speculation, after it revealed that Salmond’s popularity ratings are now down to just +2 per cent, in comparison to Sturgeon’s +14 per cent. Salmond’s ratings – which show that nearly as many people disapprove of him as like him – show up once again that he has now become a “Marmite” politician (you either like him or hate him). So what spread does Sturgeon most resemble? “Honey,” purrs one admirer.

Ukip aims to charm Scots with real ale

After the spectacular rise of his party south of the Border, Ukip leader Nigel Farage (below) is turning his attention to Scotland. Although Scotland is unlikely to be a happy hunting ground for Farage and co, the scale of the charm offensive will be formidable judging by a phone call received by a member of the press last week.The journalist was phoned by Farage’s PR man and asked if he could recommend a good “real ale pub in Edinburgh” suitable for hosting a press conference this week. The thoughtfulness of such research into Ukip’s choice of venue has been warmly welcomed by drouthy hacks.

First Ministers appear Pointless in TV quiz

The stock of Scotland’s First Ministers can rarely have been higher with their elevation to afternoon TV quiz question status. Contestants on a recent episode of the afternoon show Pointless were asked by the host Alexander Armstrong to come up with four holders of the office (Dewar, McLeish, McConnell, Salmond,). Needless-to-say it was a task beyond one pair of contestants, who took a wild guess. “Alan Smith,” they said more in hope than expectation. It was, however, an answer which delighted Alyn Smith, the SNP MEP who was thrilled by his promotion.