A rare copy of the death warrant of Mary Queen of Scots was yesterday handed over to a museum by First Minister Alex Salmond.

A rare copy of the death warrant of Mary Queen of Scots was yesterday handed over to a museum by First Minister Alex Salmond.

The warrant will be housed in Blairs, the Scottish Roman Catholic heritage museum, alongside a portrait of Mary.

The handover follows talks between Mr Salmond, Cardinal Keith O'Brien and the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams.

The original death warrant was destroyed, as were six of the seven copies made at the time of her death.

The sole remaining copy was acquired last year by the private library at Lambeth Palace, and a copy of this has gone to Blairs.

Mr Salmond said he was "delighted" to present the museum, on the outskirts of Aberdeen, with the document.

"Linlithgow Palace, in my West Lothian home town, is where her story began," said the First Minister.

"Now this testament to her story's ending will add to the tangible appreciation of Scotland's heritage.

"This copy of her death warrant will help bring the past to life.

"With the Year of Homecoming fast approaching, this chilling document will be a great addition to the cultural treasure-chest on offer and help historians and homecomers alike to reconnect with Scotland's history and romance."

The heritage museum is sited within the historic Blairs College, a former training school for students considering a calling to the priesthood. It closed in 1986 due to falling numbers and economic circumstances, and was bought by Muir Group.

Plans are now under way to transform it into a hotel, leisure and conference centre. It is believed the move would help secure the future of the museum.