Tag: Legion Scotland

Pipers take centre stage for Falklands commemorations

Falklands veterans and their families gathered in Edinburgh yesterday (Saturday 18 June) to pay tribute on the 40th anniversary of the end of the conflict. They were joined by the Rt Hon Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge and Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Veterans Keith Brown MSP for the parade and remembrance service.

Hundreds lined the streets as the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines and the Scots Guards Association Pipes and Drums marched along George Street before the service in St Andrew Square. Many Falklands veterans were among those taking part, including former Scots Guards drummer, Graham Hopewell, from Ayrshire.

At 11am, the bands were joined by more than 120 pipers across Scotland and as far away as Peru, New Zealand and the Falklands, to play “The Crags of Tumbledown Mountain” in unison. This tune was composed by Scottish Pipe Major James Riddell in the midst of the decisive battle on 13th June 1982, which led to the Argentine surrender and the end of the war the following day.

The commemorations were organised by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, in partnership with the Armed Forces and the Scottish Government.

The Rev Dr Karen Campbell, National Chaplain of the Royal British Legion Scotland, and The Rev Angus Smith, former Padre to the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards who served in the Falklands, jointly led the service.

They remembered the 255 British servicemen who fell in the Falklands, as well as 649 Argentinian military personnel, three civilians, and thousands more who were wounded.

The conflict began on April 2nd, 1982, when Argentina invaded the British territory in the South Atlantic, and ended on June 14th, as British troops approached the capital, Stanley. It was the first military action since the Second World War which involved all elements of the British Armed Forces.

Following the service, wreaths were laid by the Lord Provost, Mr Brown MSP, Rear Admiral Mark Beverstock, a Falklands veteran and President of Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, the Heads of all three Armed Services in Scotland, and the War Widows Association.

Participants then enjoyed musical entertainment from the two military bands, Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Stuart McLean, Juniper 3 and Ellyn Oliver. The public were also able to enjoy exhibits from Legion Scotland, Poppyscotland, and many other organisations and associations.

Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “It was heartening to see so many people come together today to pay tribute to all those who served in the Falklands. For veterans and their families, today was a very poignant day, as we remembered those who laid down their lives 40 years ago. Even now, many of those who served are still living with the physical and mental scars of the conflict.

“This was also an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary resilience of our Armed Forces community and the vital role they continue to play today. We’re delighted that people of all ages have engaged with our learning programme over recent months, taking the chance to find out more about the Falklands and other conflicts, and their impact on our recent history.

“It was particularly moving to hear the iconic pipe tune “The Crags of Tumbledown Mountain” being played at 11am, both here at St Andrews Square and by our global pipe band in all corners of the world.

“We would like to thank the City of Edinburgh Council and everyone else who has made today’s events possible, as well as the public for their support.”

Keith Brown MSP said: “I am delighted that we have been able to partner with Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland to deliver a commemoration which will provide the people of Scotland with an opportunity to recognise the sacrifices made 40 years ago in the Falklands War.”

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Sharing his memories of the long journey to the Falklands onboard the QE2, Rev Smith said: “We suddenly remembered what war entailed.  The question that was at the back of our mind was “would we or would we not return”. 

“But I had to go beyond that.  I had about 500 lads who were in the same position. These were the ones who were fighting, so it was up to me to help these people as much as possible.”

Reflecting on the 40th anniversary commemorations today, Rev Smith continued: “It has been one of the most wonderful experiences I’ve had in years.  The thought that has gone into this, it’s beautiful really. 

“The first person I met today was the wife of a great friend of mine, who was amongst the first men killed in the war.  We just looked at one another today, and we couldn’t speak.”

For more information of the Falklands 40 commemorative events programme visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk/Falklands40.

Falklands 40 | Remembrance | Royal British Legion

Falklands Pipe Major’s daughter shares story behind iconic tune on 40th anniversary

The daughter of a Scottish Pipe Major, whose famous tune pays tribute to those who fell in the Falklands, has spoken of the war’s lasting impact on her family.

On Saturday, (JUNE 18th), hundreds of pipers in Edinburgh and around the world will join in unison by playing “The Crags of Tumbledown Mountain” to mark the 40th anniversary of the ceasefire.

The tune was composed on the back of a ration pack by Pipe Major James Riddell while under fire during the decisive battle, in which eight fellow Scots Guards were killed. Shortly afterwards, he climbed to the top of the mountain to play it for the first time.

Musicians from across the UK, and as far away as Peru, New Zealand, and the Falklands, will play in unison at 11am on Saturday. This is part of a day of remembrance events, organised by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, in partnership with the Scottish Government and Armed Forces.

Veterans will also join a parade through the centre of Edinburgh, attended by Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Veterans Keith Brown MSP, and heads of all three Armed Forces, before a service of remembrance followed by entertainment in St Andrew’s Square.

Forty years on, Pipe Major Riddell’s daughter Teri Newell said the tune still brings a tear to her eye, and brings back bittersweet memories of her father, who died in 1997.

She said that he had returned “a different man” after the Falklands, and there had been a lack of support for many veterans who had struggled with their experiences.

She said: “He seemed like a stranger, not my dad. He became more insular and never spoke about his experiences. I’m almost certain he had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but it wasn’t recognised at the time.

“There was a lot of support for service families, but very little for the men. There was that attitude that you kept a stiff upper lip and just got on with it.”

Born in Stonehaven, Pipe Major Riddell joined the Scots Guards aged 17, following in his father’s footsteps. He married his high school sweetheart, Pauline, and served in Malaya, Borneo, and Northern Ireland.

Teri, their only child, was 14 when he was sent to the Falklands, and living at Chelsea Barracks with other military families.

She said: “I was used to him being away, but this time it felt different. It was really quite scary. He was going off to war and I didn’t know if I’d ever see him again. Every day I would come home from school hoping there was something from Dad. But you just had to get on with life.

“When we heard about the ceasefire it was the most fabulous news. But then the next day came the announcement of the fatalities. My mum remembers that, almost in a heartbeat, they went from elation to immense sadness. It was surreal – we wanted to celebrate but then we had friends and neighbours who had lost their husbands and fathers.”

Pipe Major Riddell was part of the 2nd Battalion, Scots Guards who attacked Argentinian forces on Tumbledown Mountain on June 13th, which guarded the approach to the Falklands capital, Stanley.

They engaged in fierce, hand-to-hand combat for almost nine hours in dark, freezing conditions, before finally taking the stronghold. This led to the Argentinian surrender the following day.

A few weeks later, the families travelled to RAF Brize Norton to be reunited with the returning soldiers.

She said: “It was wonderful seeing my dad in the flesh again,” she said. “But he hardly ever spoke about what he’d been through.

“Later on, he told me he’d scribbled the tune on the back of a ration pack. He told me it just came to him. Things were obviously going through his head at the time, then it all came together.”

Pipe Major Riddell served for 28 years, leaving in 1991 with an exemplary conduct assessment. His comrades remember him as well-respected and protective of the pipers under his command, although he could be a tough task master.

But he found himself struggling to adapt to civilian life, and the family became estranged when Teri was in her 20s. He died of a brain tumour in 1997.

She said: “When he left the military, he found it a very hard transition. He had been a soldier for all his adult life and was used to that structure and following orders. I think being on his own and having to find a job was a very scary prospect.

“I only spoke to him a handful of times after that, but he kept my number.  Then one day, I got a phone call saying he had passed away. I didn’t even know he had been ill.  That was the worst day of my life.”

She now lives in Slough with her husband Eric and is proud that her father’s memory lives on through his music.

“It’s amazing that so many pipers will be playing it on Saturday, it really warms my heart. Whenever I hear it, it brings a tear to my eye and reminds me of him. He was never interested in recognition, he didn’t want to be in the spotlight. But his tune means a lot to people around the world.”

Hundreds of current and former servicemen and their families are expected to take part in Saturday’s parade (JUNE 18th), starting at 10:15am from Charlotte Square. It will be led by the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines and the Scots Guards Association Pipes and Drums, with the pipers’ tribute taking place at 11am.

There will be a service in St Andrew Square, jointly led by the National Chaplain of the Royal British Legion Scotland The Rev Karen Campbell and The Rev Angus Smith, former Padre to the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards who served in the Falklands.

This will be followed by performances by both military bands, Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Stuart McLean, Juniper 3 and Ellyn Oliver.

For more information of the Falklands 40 commemorative events programme visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk/Falklands40.

Falklands 40 | Remembrance | Royal British Legion

Photo exhibition tells stories of Scottish Falklands veterans to mark 40th anniversary

A series of portraits of Falklands veterans has been released to tell their stories as Scotland marks the 40th anniversary of the end of the conflict today (14th June.

Award-winning Glasgow photographer Wattie Cheung worked with leading military charities Poppyscotland and Legion Scotland to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of our Armed Forces in the 1982 war.

The work has been released ahead of a national remembrance parade and service in the centre of Edinburgh on Saturday (JUNE 18th). Hundreds of current and former servicemen and women and their families are expected to take part. They will be joined by the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, representatives of the Scottish Government, and heads of all three Armed Services in Scotland.

Veterans and a military band will march from Charlotte Square along George Street on Saturday morning, before a service of remembrance and wreath-laying in St Andrew Square, followed by musical entertainment.

Pipers around the world will also join in playing the Crags of Tumbledown Mountain in tribute to the fallen at 11am that morning. The tune was composed by Scottish soldier, Pipe Major James Riddell, during the final battle on the back of a ration packet. More than 110 have already signed up, from as far away as Canada, Peru, and the Falklands.

The conflict began on April 2nd, 1982, when Argentina invaded the British overseas territory in the south-west Atlantic Ocean. Argentina surrendered on June 14th, as British forces approached the capital, Stanley. In total, 255 British servicemen, 649 Argentine military personnel, and three civilians died, while many more were wounded.

As part of the charities’ commemorations, Mr Cheung photographed seven veterans across Scotland using a Graflex Super D large format film camera made in the USA in the 1940s. Each one said that the 10-week conflict had impacted the rest of their lives, with many losing close friends and struggling to come to terms with their experiences.

Among them is David Cruickshanks, from Fife, who at the age of 17 was the youngest Scot to serve in the Falklands with the Royal Navy. He remembers the constant threat of air attacks, accidentally walking through a minefield, and losing six crewmates from his ship, HMS Fearless.

Former Scots Guards Donald McLeod, Willie Urban and Graham Hopewell were involved in the final battle to take Mount Tumbledown on June 13th, before the Argentinian surrender the following day.

Mr McLeod described nine hours of hand-to-hand fighting through the night, during which eight of his comrades were killed.

Mr Cheung said he had always been fascinated by the stories of veterans, and he was inspired to capture the portraits following similar projects to mark the 75th anniversary of D Day in 2019, and VE Day and VJ Day in 2020.

Wattie Cheung said: “Meeting veterans is always humbling and a good opportunity to learn about the harsh realities of war from those who have first-hand experience.

“They were all young men, no matter which war, sent into situations that they had never experienced. I don’t think they see themselves as heroes but just ordinary men in extraordinary circumstances doing a job they were trained to do.”

Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland are organising this weekend’s commemorative events in partnership with the Armed Forces and the Scottish Government. Falklands veterans and bereaved relatives will also be traveling to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire today (JUNE 14th) for a UK-wide service.

Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “These stunning portraits pay tribute to the incredible efforts and resilience of those who served in the Falklands. They encourage us to reflect on the sacrifices they made 40 years ago and remember those who paid the ultimate price.

“Today will be a poignant day for thousands of veterans, servicemen, women, and their families, as we mark the anniversary of the ceasefire. Although the conflict lasted for just 74 days, it had a profound impact, with many veterans struggling with the physical and mental scars for decades afterwards.

“We’re pleased to be working with Poppyscotland, the Scottish Government, and Armed Forces to hold national commemorations and encourage the public as well as the Armed Forces community to get involved. We’ve also been impressed by the enthusiastic response to our call for pipers to take part, and join us in playing on streets, hillsides, and gardens across Scotland and the world.”

Saturday’s parade will start at 10am from Charlotte Square, led by the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines and the Scots Guards Association Pipes and Drums.

The service, led by Revd Dr Karen Campbell, will be followed by performances by both military bands, Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Stuart McLean, Juniper 3 and Ellyn Oliver.

For more information of the Falklands 40 commemorative events programme visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk/Falklands40.

Falklands 40 | Remembrance | Royal British Legion

Dawn service of remembrance as Edinburgh marks ANZAC Day

Veterans and their families will take part in an international remembrance service at dawn on Monday (25th April) to mark the 107th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign in the First World War.

Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland will join members of the Australian and New Zealand community for the service and wreath-laying ceremony at Comely Bank Cemetery at 5.30am. Led by Rev Dr Karen Campbell, it will feature Scots Guards piper Lance Sergeant Mark Macrae and bugler Iona McFarlane.

Later that morning, Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Frank Ross and Government representatives from Scotland, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, France, and Turkey will take part in Legion Scotland’s annual ANZAC and Gallipoli Day Service at the Scottish National War Memorial inside Edinburgh Castle at 11am.

ANZAC Day marks the service and sacrifices made by the Australian and New Zealand Armed Forces, as well as those from Scotland and the rest of the world who served alongside them. It is the national day of remembrance in the two countries.

Both services are open to the public, with a limited number of tickets for the memorial available from 9:30-10:15am in front of the Castle on the Esplanade.

At dawn on April 25th, 1915, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC), together with British, French, and Russian forces landed on the Dardanelles Peninsula (now part of Turkey) at the start of the Gallipoli campaign.

This ended in a stalemate, with troops withdrawing in January 1916. A total of more than 100,000 soldiers were killed.

Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “This is an opportunity to come together to remember the service and sacrifices of ANZAC servicemen and women through the years, as well as our own soldiers who fell during the Gallipoli campaign.

“It is a chance to reflect on the extraordinary courage of our Armed Forces community, both past and present, as well as the enduring friendship between our countries.”

Pipers across the world come together to mark Falklands 40th anniversary

Forty years since the Falkland War began, pipers from across the world are being encouraged to come together to remember those who fell and were injured during the conflict.

Falklands veteran Graham Hopewell and Scots Guards Lance Sergeant Mark Macrae today (APRIL 2) joined military charities Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland to launch the call for musicians to take part.

They are asking them to perform “The Crags of Mount Tumbledown” on their doorsteps, streets, or hillside at 11am on June 18th as part of a day of national commemorations. This iconic march was composed by a Scottish soldier while under intense Argentine fire on the remote Falklands hillside.

On April 2, 1982, Argentinian forces invaded the British territory, leading to the 10-week conflict. A parade and service of remembrance will take place in Edinburgh later on June 18th to mark the anniversary of the ceasefire, remembering tens of thousands who fought in the South Atlantic and the 255 British servicemen who lost their lives.


The Crags of Mount Tumbledown was famously composed on the back of a ration packet by Pipe Major James Riddell, of the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards, during the final battle of the conflict on June 13th, 1982. 

After nine hours of fierce fighting and hand-to-hand combat, British forces captured the stronghold which guarded the approach to the Falklands capital, Stanley. This led to the Argentinian surrender but cost the lives of eight Scots Guardsmen and one Royal Engineer attached to the Battalion.

After the battle, Pipe Major Riddell, from Stonehaven, climbed to the top of the mountain and played the first rendition of his new composition in commemoration of the event. The following day, British forces retook Stanley and the Argentines surrendered. 

Sadly, Pipe Major Riddell died from a brain tumour in 1997.

Graham Hopewell, from Ayrshire, was a 19-year-old drummer with the Scots Guards when he was sent to the Falklands, serving under Piper Major Riddell. He remembers fighting in bleak, freezing conditions, and losing close friends during the battles.

One memory he will never forget is coming under air attack in Bluff Cove on June 8th. Shortly after he landed, Argentinian air forces hit the British ships, Sir Galahad and Sir Tristram, resulting in the loss of more than 50 lives.

He said: “We heard a massive explosion. When the planes came over the top, we just started shooting at them. There was no time to think about it and the adrenaline was just going.

“Later on, when we heard the ships had been hit, we realised it was real. I knew many of the Welsh Guards who were on the ships, and a close friend was killed in the attack. That was a huge shock, and it made us more determined to go on, so they hadn’t lost their lives for nothing.”


Mr Hopewell, 59, who now works as an undertaker, said: “The Falklands has always stayed with me. I was one of the lucky ones, but I think everyone was affected by it in some way. When I came back, I had no one to talk to about it and I found it hard getting my head round it all.

“I feel honoured to play this year as part of the anniversary commemorations. It’s important that we remember all those who lost their lives.”


Lance Sergeant Macrae, from Sutherland, has served in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as traveling the world with the Scots Guards Pipes and Drums. He said: “I’m very proud of what Graham and the others have done for us, and I’d encourage other pipers around the world to join us in paying tribute.”



Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “The Falklands conflict lasted just 74 days, but it had a profound impact on the lives of thousands of Scottish servicemen, women, and their families.

“Many paid the ultimate price and never returned home, while others have lived for decades with the physical and mental scars of the conflict.

“We hope that pipers in every part of Scotland, as well as the rest of the world, will join us in paying tribute to the sacrifices that they made. As we mark this anniversary, we’re pleased to be working with the Scottish Government and Armed Forces to hold national commemorations between now and June, and would encourage veterans, their families and the wider public to take part.”

Mark Collins, Interim Chief Executive of Poppyscotland, said: “The extraordinary story of how Pipe Major James Riddell composed the Crags of Mount Tumbledown in the heat of the battle is symbolic of the courage and resilience of our Armed Forces. While this battle marked the end of the conflict, those who gave their lives must never be forgotten.

“Joining together in playing this tune will be a fitting tribute to everyone who played their part in the Falklands conflict, as well as the continued sacrifices that our servicemen and women make today. We hope it will encourage people to learn more about how these events have shaped our recent history, as well as highlighting the role of our Armed Forces community and the support that is available to them.”

For more information and to take part, visit poppyscotland.org.uk/Falklands40.

Falklands 40 | Remembrance | Royal British Legion

Carnoustie War Memorial crowned Best in Scotland

Carnoustie War Memorial has been crowned the best in Scotland at a prestigious event in Edinburgh.  The annual competition, organised by the Royal British Legion Scotland (Legion Scotland), returned for a 39th year in 2021 having been paused last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Memorials large and small were recognised at a ceremony held in Edinburgh City Chambers and hosted by Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Rt Hon Frank Ross, on Friday 10th September. The Carnoustie memorial was chosen as the Champion of Champions, with other category winners including the War Memorials in Greystone Carmyllie (Angus) and Kirriemuir.

Legion Scotland’s Best Kept War Memorial competition was established in 1982 thanks to the vision of Bill Tait, a horticulturalist who was working with Edinburgh’s Botanic Gardens at the time.

Observing that many local War Memorials were in a poor state, Bill initiated the competition to improve their condition and appearance. Many memorials that were in the poorest condition at the start of the competition are now regular winners, a testament to the persistence, hard work and passion of the Legion Scotland members and other local volunteers involved.

Bill Tait said: “Our warmest congratulations go to all of this year’s winners. War memorials are such an important part of the fabric of communities across Scotland. Nearly every city, town and village has a memorial and it remains a vital and highly visible means of remembering the sacrifices made by so many in defence of our country, from the First World War to more recent conflicts.

“Recognising the huge efforts to maintain these sacred sites through the Legion Scotland Best Kept War Memorial competition is so important and it is a great honour to be Chair of the judging panel.

“The judges are looking for War Memorials to be in prime condition; clean, the masonry must be well maintained, lettering to be clear and legible and any metalwork to be well preserved.

“Access paths and seating are also important factors. On the horticultural side, the flora displays are scrutinised for their condition and should be weed free. Lawns and hedges should also be in pristine condition.

“Use of the Legion’s colours of blue and gold gain extra points.”

Speaking at Friday’s award ceremony, Lord Provost Frank Ross (above, centre) said: “War memorials provide an important place for reflection and the continued interest in Legion Scotland’s Best Kept War Memorial competition underlines the importance of remembering our fellow citizens, alongside those from elsewhere, who made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our country.

“As the Capital’s Veteran Champion and on behalf of the citizens of Edinburgh I would like to thank everyone who took the time to enter during these difficult times and to those who have organised the competition. It is truly impressive to hear that the competition this year was as fierce as always and the high standards attained. My sincere congratulations to the winners and thank you for your hard work and dedication.”

The 2021 winners are:

CategoryWinner
Champion of Champions                      Carnoustie
Large Community with Gardens        Forres
Small Community with Gardens            Golspie
Memorial without Gardens                 Dingwall
Satellite Memorial with Gardens            Greystone Carmyllie
Satellite Memorial without Gardens      Dallas
New Entry                                                Kirriemuir 

ANZACS and Gallipoli to be remembered at online service

With restrictions on public gatherings still in place, Armed Forces charity Legion Scotland will broadcast a ‘virtual’ service of remembrance tomorrow to commemorate ANZAC and Gallipoli Day, Sunday, April 25th.

The annual commemoration would normally take place in the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle, and provide a touching show of comradeship and remembrance to all those who fought at Gallipoli against the Ottoman Empire during the First World War. As with the 2020 event, this year’s ANZAC Day service will be a virtual one, broadcast by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland via their Facebook pages.

Observed on the 25th of April each year, ANZAC Day was originally devised to honour the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC). It now represents a day when Antipodeans remember the sacrifices made in all conflicts. It is also an important day for Turkey as they remember those they lost in the conflict. 

In a poignant display of remembrance and reconciliation, readings will be given by Colonel Michael Bassingthwaighte DSM, Australian Army Advisor in London; Scott Williamson, New Zealand Honorary Consul Scotland; and Mrs Hatice Tuğba İkizler Fearnley of The Government of the Republic of Turkey. 

The virtual service will be conducted by Legion Scotland National Padre Rev Dr Karen Campbell.

Legion Scotland Chief Executive, Dr Claire Armstrong, said: “We had hoped that by now we may have been able to return to physical remembrance events, such is their importance to so many people.

“Sadly, it is still not yet safe to do so but, as we have demonstrated throughout the past year, virtual services ensure the memory of the fallen is not forgotten, even during a global pandemic.”

ANZAC Day services normally commence at dawn, coinciding with the moment ANZAC forces landed on the Gallipoli peninsula in April 1915. Saturday’s broadcast will begin at 5:42am via the Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland Facebook channels and will be available for the public to view again at any time thereafter.

Dr Armstrong added: “As the custodians of Remembrance in Scotland, our involvement in services of commemoration like these is so important and allows all members of our communities to join together to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, or who returned from battles in foreign lands with life-changing injuries.

“We will remember them and, even during these unprecedented times, our enduring message of comradeship comes very much to the fore.”

Edinburgh Remembrance event moves online

A national service of remembrance in Edinburgh has been cancelled due to the ongoing coronavirus restrictions. The dedication and wreath laying service at the Garden of Remembrance in the capital’s Princes Street Gardens will instead be broadcast online for the first time.

The annual service normally attracts hundreds of spectators who stand shoulder to shoulder beneath the Scott Monument to pay their respects to the fallen of the First and Second World Wars, and all conflicts since. 

Due to the ban on outdoor events across central belt health board areas, and the risk it would pose to the public, Legion Scotland have been forced to adapt. They will be broadcasting a special service of remembrance live on their Facebook page from 1050 on Monday, ensuring the public can still join together in paying their respects.

Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “We are very disappointed that the opening of the Garden of Remembrance cannot proceed as planned, but we are determined to ensure that the public can still come together in remembrance of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Coronavirus must not be allowed to cancel remembrance, but public safety is paramount.

“Unfortunately, this is not the first time that we have had to adapt our plans this year. We undertook three major commemorations in the 75th anniversary of VE and VJ Days in May and August respectively, and the 80th anniversary of St Valery in June, with considerable success. The virtual programme of events reached millions and were arguably even more successful as a result of being taken online.

“We hope that everyone who would have joined us in Princes Street Gardens for the Service, and thousands of others, will be able to view the virtual service, which will begin around 1050 on our Facebook page. Poppyscotland will be broadcasting the virtual service live through their YouTube channel and Facebook page as well.”

The service will be hosted by Legion Scotland National Padre Rev Dr Karen Campbell and will include a two minute silence at 1100.  The Rt Hon Lord Provost and Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh Frank Ross would normally be amongst the wreath laying party. Instead, a wreath was laid at the Garden of Remembrance on behalf of the City of Edinburgh by Deputy Lord Provost Joan Griffiths in private on Friday.

The Lord Provost said: “While it is disappointing that we can’t come together as planned to open the Garden of Remembrance this year, our priority has to be public safety. By adhering to the guidelines we are all playing our part in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

“Although physically not together, as with many areas of our lives, we can join in virtually and watch the poignant service online and my thanks to Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland for their work to make this possible.

“I urge residents to embrace new ways to donate to this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal and embrace the opportunity to observe the season of remembrance. Taking a moment to pause, reflect, remember and show our gratitude and appreciation for the enormous sacrifices that have been made – and continue to be made every day on our behalf – by courageous men and women.”

The current Scottish Government guidelines on outdoor last until 2nd November and further details on what will be permitted on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day are expected later this week.

Dr Armstrong continued: “While we await clarity on how new guidelines will impact on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day, it is safe to say that these events, both at a national and local level, cannot proceed as they normally would.

“We are therefore urging all Legion Scotland branches, and other organisations who have responsibility for remembrance events in their local area, to take note of the guidelines and only to stage events that are safe and fully compliant.”

She added: “It is important to note that the Edinburgh Garden and Field of Remembrance is open to the public. While mass gatherings are not permitted, we would very much encourage the public to visit on an individual basis.

“I also urge everyone to support this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal. Thousands of Poppyscotland volunteers and Legion Scotland members are unable to collect as they normally would. Nevertheless, our Armed Forces community rely on the vital, life-changing support provided by Poppyscotland and they can only continue to deliver that through the funds raised during the Poppy Appeal.”

The virtual service of remembrance can be viewed at any of the following links:

For more information on the 2020 Scottish Poppy Appeal visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk.

VE Day 75th anniversary commemorations in Scotland

Public commemorations to be held online

An online service of remembrance and a two-minute silence will lead Scotland’s public commemorations of the 75th anniversary of VE Day on 8 May.

The ongoing coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has meant that plans for the landmark anniversary – which were to include a parade, public concert and reception – will now take place online, with a video message of thanks from the First Minister and a concert in addition to the service and silence.

Led by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland in partnership with the Scottish Government, the commemorations will include children and families currently learning at home.

Veterans Minister Graeme Dey said: “As the 75th anniversary of VE Day approaches, it is only right we pay tribute to the determination and the sacrifices made by the men and women who lived through the Second World War.

“Despite the difficult circumstances we are currently in, Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland are doing outstanding work in helping people across Scotland come together virtually on the 8 May to give thanks to our World War Two generation.

“I hope the whole nation can join with me online in honouring a generation whose contribution continues to impact on us all in many ways.”

Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “The 75th anniversary of VE Day is an important milestone in the nation’s history and we are excited to launch our virtual programme.

“While the lockdown restrictions have forced us to postpone the planned physical events, we are confident that our virtual events will bring people across Scotland together in a memorable, shared moment of commemoration and celebration.”

Poppyscotland Chief Executive Mark Bibbey said: “We had just issued VE Day learning resources to every school in Scotland when the lockdown came into effect. Nevertheless, these have been amended and are now an excellent way for young people to find out more about the significance of VE Day while learning at home.

“We’ve had incredibly positive feedback from the parents who have already made use of them and would encourage anyone home schooling utilise this comprehensive digital resource.”

The Legion Scotland Service of Remembrance will be broadcast  on Legion Scotland and Poppy Scotland’s social media channels from 10.40 a.m. until 11.15 a.m. The online concert will then begin at 11.45 a.m. until 1 p.m.