Salmond says 'waiting days' over

Mr Salmond played down his party's election victory

The days of "waiting" for Westminster to do things for Scotland are over, according to First Minister Alex Salmond in his New Year message.

Glasgow's victory in the battle to stage the 2014 Commonwealth Games was singled out as a highlight of 2007 by Mr Salmond.

Only a passing reference was made to the SNP's historic election victory.

He made his remarks in his message delivered from Kinnaird Head Lighthouse in Fraserburgh.

The first minister said: "The Scottish Government's policies will reflect the new mood in the nation by realising that the days of waiting for Westminster to do things for Scotland - these days are over.

There is a growing realisation that this country has the talent and ability to stand on its own two feet First Minister Alex Salmond

"We need to make our own initiatives now, solve our own problems, take our own opportunities.

"There is a growing realisation that this country has the talent and ability to stand on its own two feet - and we have got to find the democratic structure that will allow us to do that."

The first minister also warned of "chill winds" blowing in the international economy.

But he said Scotland can be the exception if the country combines its human talent and competitive advantage.

'Great advantages'

He added: "There is more recognition of Scotland, people are becoming more aware of Scotland internationally.

"That is one of our great advantages if we capture and market that."

The performances of the Scotland football team and Bathgate racing driver Dario Franchitti's victory at this year's Indianapolis 500 were picked out by the first minister among the sporting highlights.

He also praised Scot Leon Jackson's victory in X-Factor.

Mr Salmond added: "Best of all, 70 other countries from around the world entrusted Glasgow and Scotland with hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2014."

He played down the party's historic victory at the Scottish election in May.

He said: "We had a bit of progress in politics as well."