HE is renowned across the globe as the world's most famous Scotsman and last night Sir Sean Connery was recognised back in his home city for his contribution to politics, charity and the advancement of his nation.
The award of International Scot of the Year, sponsored by Keppie Design, went to the 78-year-old Oscar-winning actor, who has been strongly associated with the SNP over the years. But in 1997, when the incoming Labour government held a referendum on its devolution proposals, Sir Sean campaigned alongside Gordon Brown and Alex Salmond.
He was also happy to lend his considerable international weight to the previous Labour-led Holyrood administration in its efforts to build up Tartan Day in the United States, and he lobbied strongly in support of Glasgow's bid for the Commonwealth Games.
Sir Sean, who was knighted in 2000, used his fee from Diamonds Are Forever in 1971 to establish the Scottish International Education Trust, which offers grants to individual students, young scientists, arts organisations or projects which will contribute to the cultural, social or economic wellbeing of Scotland. He has continued his charitable work down the years.
His film career transcended James Bond and he won a Bafta for The Name of the Rose in 1986, and an Oscar as best supporting actor opposite Kevin Costner in The Untouchables the following year.
Sir Sean, who was unable to attend last night's ceremony, said: "Thank you for this honour. It has been one of my greatest joys to see Scotland walking tall in recent years.
"The spirit of the Scottish people - innovation, drive, entrepreneurialism, fairness, global responsibility and, yes, the sense of independence - has long predated the 1997 referendum and the 2007 result. And now, I believe our elected officials are starting to catch up with that spirit.
"The work of the Scottish International Education Trust has long been an investment in this spirit of optimism by supporting our young people. And, like other Scots, I've been happy to play my part in promoting Scotland abroad. It's been pointed out to me that since I've never given up my Scottish accent in film, I have, perhaps inadvertently, been promoting Scotland all along - when playing Lithuanian submarine captains, English monks and Irish-American police officers.
My whole life I have wanted nothing more or less than a Scotland that rejoins the community of nations on an equal basis. People will understandably have different views on the best course for the country. What the press can give them is the facts - the straight talk.
"It's good to report good news when it happens. And regardless of our politics, I hope we'll all have more good news for Scotland to read about in the coming years."
The shortlist also included Scotland's greatest Olympian, four-times gold medallist Chris Hoy, and entrepreneur Ann Gloag, who has achieved international business success and has given more than £4m to the Mercy Ships charity.
Mark Beaumont, who broke the world record earlier this year for circumnavigating the world on a bike, announced the winner.
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