 Mr McConnell lays a wreath during the VE Day service in Dundee. |
First Minister Jack McConnell has joined thousands of men, women and children from across Scotland to mark the 60th anniversary of VE Day. Mr McConnell attended Scotland's main national event in Dundee, to pay tribute to those who gave their lives during World War II.
At a service in St Andrew's Cathedral, Mr McConnell read a lesson, before laying a wreath.
He also joined the crowds to watch as veterans marched through Dundee.
Mr McConnell said: "Today is an important day. It is a time for sombre reflection. It is a time to pay tribute to those who gave their lives for our freedom.
"Sixty years ago, brave young Scots men and women stood shoulder to shoulder with allies from across the world to free Europe from the evils of fascism.
"They fought with tremendous courage, and their heroism is an inspiration to us all.
"For many Scots, this will be a day of great sadness, but for many others it will also be a day of celebration.
"The 8th May 1945 marked the end of six years of misery and suffering across Europe. Today, 60 years on, Scotland says thank you."
Veterans also took part in parades in Inverness, Dunfermline and Troon.
 | Young and old gathered to celebrate the anniversary. 
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A march was held in Elgin where locals were treated to a fly-past featuring a Nimrod and Tornados from the RAF bases at Lossiemouth and Kinloss.
In Aberdeen more than 400 people attended a VE Day party at the Beach Ballroom.
Guests were entertained by a "Hits from the Blitz" concert.
An estimated 57,000 Scots servicemen died in the WWII conflict.
Events nationwide kicked off a summer of commemorations that will run until VJ (Victory in Japan) Day on 15 August.
Both VE Day and VJ Day will be commemorated in a national day of remembrance on July 10.
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The 8th May 1945 marked the end of six years of misery and suffering across Europe. Today, 60 years on, Scotland says thank you
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