NICOLA Sturgeon has won widespread praise at home and abroad for her handling of the coronavirus crisis.

Calm and measured throughout, the First Minister has helped the nation edge towards recovery.

Now, with the FM approaching her 50th birthday, Scots have the chance to show their appreciation.

The National is inviting readers to submit their birthday messages, which will be printed in the paper on Saturday ahead of the FM’s big day on Sunday, July 19.

CLICK THIS LINK TO SEND YOUR MESSAGE TO NICOLA!

Thousands of Scots are also planning to mark the occasion with a nationwide round of applause.

People across the country are being urged to get out on their doorsteps clap at 8pm on Sunday to “give Nicola the ‘full regalia’ on her 50th”.

READ MORE: 'Clap for Nicola': Thousands to applaud on FM's 50th birthday

Almost 8000 people have signed up to the Facebook page for the event, Clap for Nicola.

Organiser Siobhan McCann wrote: “Our First Minister has done an exceptional job throughout what’s been a strange year so far, to say the least.

“We clapped for our fantastic NHS. We even clapped for Boris at some point (why, I’m not quite sure).

“Let’s give Nicola the ‘full regalia’ on her 50th birthday, Sunday 19th July at 8pm.

“Get the pipes and pans oot and cheer once more for oor Nicola! And let’s make sure Westminster hear us!”

CLICK THIS LINK TO SEND YOUR MESSAGE TO NICOLA!