Scots invited to attend the opening of Parliament next month

Five pairs of covetable tickets are available for the public gallery of the Debating Chamber, where Her Majesty The Queen will address the newly elected members of the Scottish Parliament and invited guests.

People can apply for the chance to attend and tickets will be allocated by random draw.

A range of events will mark the opening of the Scottish Parliament’s for its new parliamentary session.

The day will include: Her Majesty The Queen addressing MSPs in the Chamber.

Local Heroes will be taking part in the ‘Riding’ procession down Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, along with over 2,000 other participants in a colourful, historic tradition. The Riding will feature people from all walks of public life and local community groups, plus music and entertainment.

Holyrood’s ‘Big Day Out’ - a fun packed afternoon for all the family.

With a programme that has something for everyone, the gardens and doors of the Parliament will be open to all to explore, observe and participate in a full programme of events including a mini-Highland games, Music and Dance, Science and Nature, Art activities for Kids and much more.

There are a limited number of tickets to the public for this event, which is open to everyone across Scotland. There are several ways to apply for tickets. You can write to the Scottish Parliament at: Opening of the Parliament, Visitor Services, The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh,

EH99 1SP.

Or apply for tickets by phoning the Visitor Services Team on 0131 348 5200; by emailing [email protected] or by texting 07786209888 and starting the message with Session 5.

Members of the public can apply for up to two tickets. They must supply the following information for each person who wishes to attend: Title (Mr, Mrs, Ms, Miss, Dr etc.), First name and any middle names, Surname, Previous name (if applicable), Address with postcode,

Telephone number, Date of birth.

Ticket applications must reach the Parliament no later than Friday, June 17. Tickets will be allocated by random draw. Successful applicants will be notified by than Friday, June 24 at the latest and will be given detailed instructions on the arrangements for the event.

By providing your details you agree to them being shared with Police Scotland for the purpose of carrying out security checks.

All Scottish Parliament building users will be subject to security checks for the duration of her Majesty The Queen’s visit. The Scottish Parliament will not retain your personal details following the event.

Free transportation will be provided to those travelling from the regions. Further details of this arrangement will be available on receipt of tickets.