McConnell to join Tartan Day

The Tartan Day parade will include 10,000 pipers

First Minister Jack McConnell is flying to the US to lend his support to Tartan Day events.

Mr McConnell plans to use the celebrations on 6 April to promote Scottish tourism and business.

A Scottish Executive spokesman said he will take part in a diverse programme designed to showcase a modern Scotland with a dynamic economy and a vibrant culture.

The first minister is expected to talk to a wide range of Americans about how Scotland shares a heritage with the US.

John Swinney will be lending his support to Tartan Day

John Swinney, the leader of the Scottish National Party, will also be in New York for the huge event, which it is hoped will raise thousands of dollars for cancer charities.

Mr Swinney claimed his party was the only one capable of promoting Scotland overseas and securing "the place we deserve on the world stage".

Speaking before travelling to New York, Mr McConnell said: "Tartan Day has become a major event in America and I am determined to make sure that Scotland is promoted at the highest level during a time when the world will be watching."

He said he believed the celebration was a "perfect opportunity" to make "a step change" in Scotland's recovery from the effects of foot-and-mouth.

The first minister also said the opportunity to urge more Americans to travel overseas in the wake of September 11 would be used.

Jack McConnell is hoping to boost tourism

The terror attacks have led to a 25% drop in US tourists coming to Scotland.

"We will show Americans that not only is Scotland a first class tourist destination, but that our economy has an important connection with America," said Mr McConnell.

"In the US and across the world, people have a strong emotional commitment to Scotland and the symbols of our past.

"That is an important tie for us to build on as we promote contemporary Scotland with a modern and dynamic culture and economy."

Up to 1,200 Scots pipers are expected to attend the prestigious event which aims to raise $1m for cancer charities.

They will join pipers from 26 other countries, including New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago and Malaysia for the celebration of Scottish roots.

Sir Sean Connery

Up to 10,000 people are due to take part in the Tunes of Glory parade - expected to be the biggest pipe parade ever - on Saturday which will take in 72 city blocks from Sixth Avenue to Central Park in the heart of New York.

Sir Sean Connery is expected to send the bands on their way in New York and fellow Scots movie star Ewan McGregor is hoping to join members of his family taking part in the glittering parade.

The date, 6 April, which is the anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, was chosen by expatriate Scots in the US.