Stirling hosts delegates from Nova Scotia

Sep 16 2009 by Donald Morton, Stirling Observer Wednesday

MORE than 40 Nova Scotians received Scottish hospitality when they visited Stirling.

During the week the delegation also toured the Trossachs and visited Menstrie, the home of Sir William Alexander who founded Nova Scotia in 1621, Falkirk and Grangemouth.

The mission to Stirling builds on an earlier visit two years ago.

Warden Fred Whalen of Kings County, one of the organisers, said: “We have a lot in common in terms of local business, tourism and resources and our Scottish contacts appreciate our shared history.”

Delegates took part in tourism industry networking sessions and visited local educational and medical facilities.

In Menstrie they planted a maple tree and unveiled a plaque in memory of the late Michael Baker, a Nova Scotian politician who visited Menstrie Castle in 2005.

They were also guests at a beating of the retreat in Stirling by the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Provost Fergus Wood, who hosted the Canadians during their time in the city, said: “We share a common heritage, which makes it so much easier to do business together.

“Stirling can provide a springboard for Nova Scotian businesses to trade with the rest of the British Isles and Europe.”