A march will take place in Dalkeith on Friday 23rd April at 2.00pm.

Campaigners will march along Dalkeith high street closing the A68 to deliver a copy of the petition that was handed to the Scottish Parliament. Provost Sam Campbell will receive the petition from M.R.S.A.G representatives outside Buccleuch House in Dalkeith. March ends at Kings Park, Dalkeith.

All five rural schools will be represented on the march, Temple, Borthwick, Cousland, Cranston and Howgate. MSPs who have supported the campaign have been invited to take part in the march. Fiona Hyslop, SNP MSP for Lothians is unable to attend the march, but had this to say to campaigners, “Your demonstration today is an expression of people, parent and pupil power - what we need now from the Midlothian Council is a considered response to this vital education issue based on the 3 R's - Respect , responsiveness and re-appraisal . Good luck and best wishes for a successful outcome for all the small communities of Midlothian. "

Campaigners have worked tirelessly to stop the closures of all of Midlothian rural schools. They march to remind councillors of the strength of feeling that exists and the solidarity felt between the schools. Councillors reach a decision on the future of these schools when the consultation period ends on 30th April.

Notes to editors: Marchers will be available on the day for comment.