Children examine 'modern Wallace'

Pupil have been examining the Wallace legend

School children are being asked what cause they think Sir William Wallace would champion if he were still alive.

Suggestions so far include anti- bullying, racism and healthy eating campaigns.

The Scottish Executive competition is aimed at encouraging primary school pupils to think about the man behind the myth.

The winners will be invited to a gala dinner at Stirling Castle to mark the 700th anniversary of his death.

The competition was launched by Culture Minister Patricia Ferguson at St Clare's Primary School in Drumchapel, Glasgow.

'Chance to explore'

She said: "William Wallace is one of Scotland's most famous icons and known globally as a man who fought heroically for his cause.

"The launch of this competition encourages schoolchildren to learn about Wallace's life and how he helped shape the Scotland we know today.

"It also asks the pupils to write a story about how Wallace would have dealt with an issue which they face in their school or playground - for example racism, bullying, healthy eating or exercise.

William Wallace is one of Scotland's foremost historical characters

"The idea is simple but will give pupils a new and informative way to research Wallace and his character, and to apply their findings to a problem real to them.

"This is an exciting project and one I'd encourage all primary schools across Scotland to participate in."

Nick Morgan from National Grid for Learning Scotland will be one of the competition judges.

He added: "I'm delighted to be a judge for this Wallace competition, which will give children and teachers a chance to explore one of Scotland's foremost historical characters."