THE Gaelic language cannot be saved by the Scottish Government alone, with speakers warned to "use it or lose it" forever.

Michael Russell, the cabinet secretary for education and lifelong learning, made the claim in front of hundreds of Gaelic speakers gathered for the Royal National Mod – the annual celebration of Gaelic culture – in Dunoon last night.

Mr Russell, who is learning Gaelic, said the Government had one part to play in encouraging its growth, with the key to its revival being in the hands of those who speak it.

Mr Russell said: "We all have a duty to help the Gaelic language to survive.

"It is not something the Scottish Government or Bord na Gaidhlig can achieve alone.

"It is time for the people in Scotland who have the language skills to take every opportunity to use it in everyday life and encourage others to follow suit.

"In other words, let's use it or lose it."

The Education Secretary went on to announce £60,000 in funding to support the development of the language amongst its youngest learners.

In his address John Macleod, President at the Royal National Mod, said it was encouraging that many public organisations including councils, enterprise agencies, health boards, government, parliament, national agencies, and national parks now had plans in place for the provision of their services in Gaelic.

Meanwhile, broadcaster Roddy Maclean won the Gaelic Ambassador of the Year award at the Mod.