The search is on to find more than 150 "devolution babies" born on the opening day of the Scottish Parliament.

Holyrood bosses are inviting every child born on July 1, 1999, to a party celebrating 10 years of devolution.

Announcing a programme of activities for the 10th anniversary, Presiding Officer Alex Fergusson yesterday said that the task of contacting the children had begun.

A total of 163 children were born in Scotland on the day the parliament received its full legislative powers.

To mark the occasion, each child was given a medallion and letter by then First Minister, the late Donald Dewar.

Next year's birthday party is one of a series of events planned to mark a decade of devolution. Mr Fergusson announced the programme of events during a visit to St Anthony's Primary in Saltcoats.

Nine-year old pupil Megan Manfredini from Ayrshire was born on July 1, 1999, making her one of the 163 devolution babies. Megan said she was thrilled to be having her 10th birthday party at the Scottish Parliament. "I have never been to Holyrood before," she said. "We learn about the parliament at school but I am the only one here born on the same day.

"I am really looking forward to meeting all the other July 1, 1999 children. I can't believe I'll be having my party at the Parliament," she said. "I feel so lucky that the Presiding Officer came here to tell me and my classmates about it today. "

As well as the birthday celebrations, a public engagement programme is also planned for 2009.