Letter: Proper anthem

Many years ago I wrote to your paper expressing concern about the bogus skirlings of Scotland the Brave, a pantomime song, being used for our national anthem at sporting occasions. I favoured Flower of Scotland, which sets a more serious, martial tone suitable to an international contest.

However, I cannot be alone in regretting that the tuning of the bagpipes makes it impossible for them to carry the melody at the "tae think again" point of the proceedings. This results in a faltering delivery where some of the crowd follow the incorrect melody of the pipes and others stick to the original tune, creating a discord.

It even happens during the second stanza; these days frequently delivered "a cappella" for dramatic effect. An enfeebled atmosphere ensues, inappropriate to the resolve required against a team such as South Africa. Perhaps it is an echo of our conflicting feelings towards our national identity. Anyone for Scots Wha Hae?

Allan Stevenson

Hope Terrace

Edinburgh