Tradition states that in 832,
a Pictish King defeated a Northumbrian warlord called Athelstan in East
Lothian. During the battle, the image of a St Andrew's cross appeared in the
sky and gave heart to the outnumbered Picts. They won the day, and in thanks
to God honoured St Andrew above all other saints. When the Picts and Scots
united, the St Andrew's cross became the national emblem.