A VETERAN independence campaigner has said he is “over the moon” after receiving a letter from the First Minister.
Cyril Corcoran said he was "delighted" that Nicola Sturgeon got in touch after reading the Sunday National’s profile on the 83-year-old.
The veteran Yes activist was interviewed by the newspaper on his seven decades of supporting indy.
Corcoran revealed his recent cancer diagnosis and mobility issues but said that won’t deter him from continuing to forward the same beliefs he’d held since the 1950s.
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The Borderer spoke about his fond memories of his run-ins with Sturgeon throughout the years – and it appears the First Minister happily recalls them too.
Writing in a letter to his Galashiels address, Sturgeon said: “I was delighted to see the wonderful profile of you in the Sunday National.
“The article and photographs immediately brought to mind my very happy memories of our numerous run-ins over the years.
“Thank you too for everything you continue to do for us all and our movement, and my promise to you is that I will do my utmost to deliver on our shared goal of an independent Scotland.
“Most of all, Peter [Murrel] and I hope you're finding comfort and joy in the company of family and friends.”
Asked how he felt to receive the letter, he said: “I feel everything. I was surprised and delighted and over the moon.”
Corcoran said he wanted to thank Sturgeon for the letter, saying it's helped lift his mood during a tough period in his life.
“I’m so grateful,” he said. “And with the illness, it’s such a boost.
“I’ve felt quite good ever since.”
READ MORE: Yes activist on his 70 years backing indy – and why he’s never wavered
Cyril and contracted pneumonia since he last spoke to the Sunday National but said he is still doing well.
The chirpy Yesser met the First Minister several times throughout his years in the party, at conferences and various other events.
At one conference, he bumped into her three times over a short space of time, as he recalls the FM joking "are you stalking me?"
He'd later meet her again, with the pair pictured sitting laughing next to each other for a Cycling Without Age charity event.
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