Ian Hamilton Obituary

Ian Hamilton, an independence activist famous for his daring retrieval of the Stone of Destiny in 1950, has died at the age of 97.

The former lawyer was one of four Scots who broke into Westminster Abbey just before Christmas Day in 1950.

The stone, used to crown the kings and queens of Scotland for centuries, was then smuggled back to Scotland sparking a nationwide hunt lasting months.

The group ended up handing over the stone to the Church of Scotland in April 1951 – a move hailed at the time as a triumph of Scottish nationalism.

It was since returned to Westminster Abbey, but by then Mr Hamilton’s name was written in the history books.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon led the tributes to Mr Hamilton, calling him a “legend” of the independence movement.

“He will long be remembered as one of the Christmas 1950 liberators of the Stone of Destiny,” she said.

“During my time as the SNP’s leader, I have received occasional words of wisdom, encouragement and support from him, which I will always treasure.

“He is one of the many giants on whose shoulders the modern SNP stands.

“My condolences go to his loved ones.”