NICOLA Sturgeon will make a statement in the Scottish Parliament this afternoon for the last Tuesday before the Holyrood recess.

Parliament will go on holiday from Wednesday until May 4, with the election to be held on May 6.

Today also marks a year since the first lockdown, with a moment’s silence to be held at noon.

Prominent buildings and landmarks will be illuminated as part of the national day of reflection, including the Kelpies, Wallace Monument and Ness Bridge.

READ MORE: Covid LIVE: Scotland marks one year since first lockdown

People are being encouraged to stand on their doorsteps with phones, candles and torches to signify a “beacon of remembrance”.

According to the latest figures from the National Records of Scotland – which reports all deaths with Covid-19 mentioned on the death certificate – there have been 9831 coronavirus deaths since the beginning of the pandemic.

The First Minister has said it is “right we pause to remember those we have lost, and offer our continued thoughts, solidarity and support to the bereaved”.

Sturgeon will speak shortly after 2pm in the Scottish Parliament, offering Covid-19 reflections and an update on the steps ahead.

She will confirm whether already announced lockdown changes can go ahead, and reveal if the planned easing will be able to continue as scheduled with reference to the latest data on the virus.

READ MORE: Covid Scotland: Nicola Sturgeon acknowledges 'terrible ordeal' on national day of reflection

Last week the First Minister unveiled several indicative dates for lockdown easing, including when hairdressers and beer gardens may be able to reopen and domestic travel restrictions could be lifted.

The announcement will be broadcast live on the Scottish Parliament website and the BBC Scotland channel.