THE Saltire is flying alongside the Ukrainian flag at the “birthplace” of Scotland's national flag.

The Scottish Flag Trust said the move symbolised Scotland’s support for the nation as it battles the invasion of Russia.

The charity maintains the Saltire memorial in the East Lothian village of Athelstaneford.

READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon rubbishes Tory excuse for refusing to help more Ukrainian refugees

Convener Dave Williamson said the decision to break with tradition and have two flags on their pole for the first time ever was a simple gesture of solidarity.

He said: “It’s a non-political statement, we hope a powerful way of showing Scotland’s support for Ukraine at this terrible time.

The National:

“No-one can fail to be moved by what is going on and this is a simple way of expressing our nation’s horror at the devastation being wrought on the civilian population of a European country."

According to legend, the Saltire originated following a battle fought in Athelstaneford around 832AD. 

An army of Picts under King Angus, aided by Scots, found itself invaded by the Lothians, which at the time remained a Northumbrian territory.

Angus, fearing the battle's outcome, led payers and was rewarded by seeing a cloud forming a white saltire against a blue sky.

The Saltire is the oldest flag in Europe and the Commonwealth.

The decision by the charity follows similar moves by the Scottish Government, which earlier this week raised the Saltire at its HQ along with Ukraine's national flag.

READ MORE: Russia waging war of 'terror' as first Ukrainian city 'captured'

Tweeting a picture of the flags, the Scottish Government said "Scotland stands with Ukraine".

Scottish citizens have continued to show their support for the eastern European nation, with a woman on Tuesday burning her Russian passport.

Vigils and protests have also taken place across Scotland, including in Glasgow and Edinburgh.