LINKS WITH Perth, Western Australia, and its Scottish namesake have been strengthened thanks to a visit by Provost Bob Scott, councillors will be told this week.

Mr Scott visited Australia at his own expense and undertook civic duties which will be outlined to his sub-committee on Wednesday.

His trip followed the visit in September by the lord mayor of Perth WA and a small delegation who came to Scotland with the aim of developing links with Perth Concert Hall and to sign a charter of mutual friendship between the councils.

The charter recognised the long and historic, cultural and social connections which have existed for more than 150 years.

The Australian delegation’s visit included a tour of St John’s Kirk, Perth Theatre and Perth Concert Hall and a formal link now exists between the concert halls.

Roddy McArthur, executive director (corporate services), said in a report to the committee, “The provost also paid a visit to Craigie Primary School WA.

“This school has links with Craigie Primary School in Perth, Scotland.

“Additionally the provost visited an aboriginal school and the neighbouring council of Stirling WA.

“A civic reception was held at the city council building to which many people with Perth and Scottish connections had been invited.

“The Scotch College Pipe Band from WA was present as was an aboriginal performer.

“The provost was accompanied by the lady provost (the provost’s sister) and her husband Colin Stewart, Councillor Jack Coburn and Mrs Penny Coburn, who began their respective holidays in Perth WA.

“These two exchange visits have further highlighted the strong family bonds which continue to exist between the Fair City of Perth, Scotland, and the City of Perth WA.

“Both the provost of Perth and Kinross and the Lord Mayor of Perth WA are keen to continue to develop the links that already exist between the two cities.

“This year’s visits and the signing of a charter of mutual friendship has added value to the bond.”