Some political leaders might be a bit hesitant when it comes to approaching lottery
winners in the hope of securing some of their dosh for the party cause – but not Alex Salmond. Back in July this year, when it emerged that a couple in Ayrshire – Colin and Chris Weir
– had scooped a record £161 million on the EuroMillions, Scotland’s First Minister reacted with astonishing speed.
Within days Mr Salmond had written a letter to the couple congratulating them on their success and adding:
There was little wondering about it. Mr Salmond knew it was the same Colin Weir who had not just worked for the party a few years before but had actually stood for the SNP in the 1987 General Election.‘When I heard the fantastic news that a Scot had landed the EuroMillions jackpot, I did wonder if this was the same Colin Weir who helped produce SNP party political broadcasts for a young party publicity vice-convener all those years ago.’
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