MEMBERS of Saor Alba Pipes and Drums (SAPD) unveiled a tribute to their mascot, Sheldon Indy Dug, as part of an impressive march for independence through Edinburgh yesterday.

Sheldon, a well-known dog at independence marches and rallies, died in February at the age of eight after his heart problems became untreatable.

Chairman John McGregor, the band’s founder George Kempick and lead drum Jock Ritchie surprised Sheldon’s owner Jane Cooper Stewart with a memorial bass drum at the Piper’s Rest before the band began to lead the march through the city.

McGregor said Sheldon had been “a very special dog” who was “loved by everyone in the indy family”.

He went on: “But for the band he was so much more … our mascot, proudly leading us on marches and star of the show at events.

“Always calm, always proud, always gentle. We’re all devastated by his loss. He was such an amazing dog and a proud indy warrior.”

The National:

The National: