NICOLA Sturgeon will launch this year's International Roma Day celebrations in Govanhill.

The First Minister is to join Southside constituents in Govanhill Park tomorrow morning to mark the annual event showcasing Romani culture.

Supporters will gather before marching to Queen's Park.

Romano Lav’s Rahela Cirpaci said Govanhill is the ideal place for the celebration.

She said: "Govanhill contains Scotland’s highest Roma population and second highest population in the UK.

"It is the perfect place to celebrate this diverse community, whilst also shedding light on challenges the community continue to face.

"It’s important to note that young people from the community have led on the organisation of the event and they were very passionate about doing something positive for the neighbourhood as a whole."

The Roma community will be joined by fellow Govanhill residents and guests from further afield to celebrate Romani culture and raise awareness of the issues facing Roma people.

The event will start with a speech and a parade through Govanhill, followed by music, dancing, and films.

It has been organised by young Community Catalysts from the local Roma Community, with support from local organisations Romano Lav and partners Community Renewal: Rom Romeha.

Community Renewal: Rom Romeha’s Project Lead, Marek Balog - who is also a member of the Roma Community - added: “Community Renewal: Rom Romeha has worked alongside the Govanhill Roma for over 10 years now, empowering residents of all ages to create a shared vision for the community.

"They will be participating in the event.

"It really is great way to celebrate and share what our culture is all about.”

Ms Sturgeon, who is alsoMSP for Glasgow Southside, praised the efforts of young people who have come together to make the celebrations happen.

She said: “Govanhill is such a great part of my constituency and I see first hand what a wonderfully welcoming and culturally diverse neighbourhood it is.

"What is particularly impressive, is the fact that young people have played a major role in organising this event.

"It reinforces my belief that this community will have a positive impact on successive generations, not just in Govanhill but on the Scotland of the future.

"I would like to thank all the Roma community and local organisations for organising such a vibrant and enjoyable day.”