Cologne could twin with major Scots city after falling in love with Tartan Army

COLOGNE has officially began a process to twin itself with a Scottish city… all because they fell in love with the Tartan Army during the Euros.

Thousands arrived in the German city last month where Scotland’s massive clash with Switzerland which saw Steve Clarke’s side collect their only point in the 1-1 draw.

Cologne mayor Henriette Reker previously praised the Tartan Army for their behaviour and insisted they would be welcome back any time.

Now the city’s council have officially put forward a motion to twin their city with one of three in Scotland – Glasgow, Edinburgh or Aberdeen.

And VisitCologne tourism boss Dr Jürgen Amann praised our “exuberant and peaceful” footsoldiers, who flew a huge Saltire in the city centre in the build up to the big game.

Cologne council deputy leader Oliver Seeck said: “There is the shared love of football between the Scots and the people of Cologne, which unites both fan groups in a unique way and which was impressively demonstrated this summer.

“And the bagpipes are now used in Cologne music by many bands and carnival societies.

“Another connecting element is the special art of brewing, which has a long tradition in both Cologne and Scotland. Both regions are known for their unique beer creations.

“We have put forward three Scottish cities as suggestions, but we would be more than happy to twin our city with the whole of Scotland.”

City officials were impressed that drenched Tartan Army revellers didn’t let downpours dampen the Euros atmosphere as they turned rainy Cologne into a party zone.

Supporters flooded the city’s Alter Markt — a stunning city square near the River Rhine which became a hotspot for fans throughout their time in there.

And locals told how enjoyed the spectacle of the Tartan Army marching through Cologne today led by pipers.

We told how tens of thousands paraded to the Rhein Energy Stadium ahead of the national team’s second group stage fixture in the 50,000-capacity home of FC Köln.

We also told how video footage emerged on social media of two Scotland supporters lending a helping hand to an older gentleman, believed to be a local, as he made his way across the busy Cologne square.

Two men in kilts and Scotland tops walked alongside the pensioner and held an umbrella above his head to keep him dry, as the “No Scotland, No Party” chant could be heard in the background.

And the Scottish Sun tracked down the fan who became a Euros star for sheltering a German OAP with a tartan umbrella has told how he is now known as ‘The Brolly Man’.

The image of them went viral online — racking up three million views — and even featured on train adverts in the historic city.