Salmond comes fourth in top Scots poll

FIRST Minister Alex Salmond has been beaten into fourth place in a competition to find Scot of the Year.

Texas guitarist Ally McErlaine won the title, closely followed by Edinburgh-trained actress Karen Gillan, better known as Doctor Who’s assistant Amy Pond.

Gerry Rafferty, who was posthumously added to the list in recognition of his lasting musical legacy, took third place in the online poll conducted by ScotsCare, the charity for Scots in London to celebrate Burns Day, with Mr Salmond fourth.

ScotsCare chief executive Willie Docherty said: “Every year we ask for people’s Scot of the Year and this year in particular I think has highlighted the range and diversity of Scots talent. We have had nominations from politics, sports, music, acting and film making.

“I think Ally McErlaine is an excellent winner and would make Rabbie proud.”