Liz Lochhead poem to toast whisky centenary

A NEW poem by Liz Lochhead and an exhibition exploring the history of the Scotch Whisky industry at the Scottish Parliament will mark the centenary of the Scotch Whisky Association.

A brochure tracking key SWA and industry events of the last century will be published, while a comprehensive independent study on the economic impact of Scotch Whisky in the last 100 years will also be launched.

The exhibition at the Parliament will open on 29 November and continue until 25 January next year. It is part of a programme of temporary exhibitions in the Parliament’s Main Hall that explore wider themes of Scottish interest and achievement.

The specially-composed poem by Makar Ms Lochhead will be read by the poet for the first time at an event in Edinburgh in June – approximately 100 days in advance of the SWA’s anniversary in October.

Gavin Hewitt, chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, said: “This year is about celebrating the colourful past and looking forward to a successful future for Scotch Whisky. Our centenary gives us an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of this globally successful industry at home and abroad.