A weekly newspaper urged The Queen to return an artefact of royal significance to its patch.

The Perthshire Advertiser is calling on readers to support its campaign to return the Stone of Destiny to Perth.

The stone, also known as the Stone of Scone, was initially based at Scone Palace and was used to crown the ancient Scottish kings, and has since been used in the coronation of English and British monarchs – including Queen Elizabeth II.

The stone is currently housed at Edinburgh Castle, but Perth and Kinross Council wants to make the stone the centrepiece of a revamped Perth City Hall and a public consultation has been launched into the artefact’s future.

The Queen herself will have the final say on the matter.

In a message to readers, Advertiser editor Douglas Dickie said: “There is no doubt about it – the Stone of Destiny belongs in Perthshire. At Edinburgh Castle, it is just part of a wider collection. In the Fair City [Perth], it would be given the prominence it deserves as part of the spectacular £23 million museum at the former city hall.

“Perhaps most importantly, it would be free for the public to view what is an integral part of our past. It is also only right that artefacts such as this are spread throughout the country.

“Scotland has such a rich history and heritage that should not be confined to the centre of Edinburgh.

“We are appealing to readers to get involved – it is so important that your voice is heard and you really can make a difference. I am sure that, with your support, we can help make sure Her Majesty makes the right decision.”