Lorraine Wilson

Journalist and writer Lorraine Wilson is a proud and passionate Dundonian, whose book Take it to the Bridge, charts the history of Dundee's vibrant music scene from the 1960's up to the present day.

Lorraine was born in the city and can truly claim to be a child of her times. Her Mum worked in the jute mills and her Dad in different factories within the engineering sector, which was a big employer in the sixties and seventies.

"The people in Dundee are what makes it unique. They have a wicked but down-to-earth sense of humour. I love the fact that Dundee is such a great size - big enough to have everything you need in a city, but small enough to walk around and always meet someone you know."

"Dundee has shaped me. In the years I was living away from here, I never lost my sense of identity and was always proud to say I am a Dundonian."

"When people spend time here they find the depth and the layers to this city which give it unique spirit. The refurbishment of the McManus Galleries was a fantastic achievement - proved by the huge numbers of visitors and local people who have visited since it reopened."

"Dundonians now accept that the days of shipyards, jute mills and other heavy industry that employed thousands of people, are gone. But that doesn't mean we can't be a successful and vibrant economy. Our heritage will always be important and should be celebrated, but we need to acknowledge that we now have new strengths - creative industries, music, film, games, and life sciences and these are areas where people can find work. These new sectors have put us on the global map."

"My generation is fortunate to be able to draw inspiration and be shaped by Dundee's colourful and fascinating heritage, and now it's time to make sure that our legacy means that future generations of Dundonians can be equally proud."