The launch of the Scottish Poppy Appeal 2006 was marked at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday evening.

The Chairman of Poppyscotland, Colonel David Scott OBE TD, is pictured speaking at the event, part of a series of launches taking place across Scotland until 7 November.

Presiding Officer George Reid MSP signs a Book of Remembrance during the evening.

The charity, formerly known as the Earl Haig Fund, was set up in 1921 and provides practical help in time of need to all who served in the Armed Forces and their dependents.