Soldiers' sacrifice marked

THE sacrifice of servicemen who gave their lives in World War I was remembered at a commemorative event to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the conflict.

A service was held at Banff's Duff House on Sunday which saw the Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire, Clare Russell, rededicate a memorial which marked the commencement of the war and unveil a bench depicting poppies and silhouettes of soldiers, which she has presented to the community.

It is part of one of many events in the area to commemorate the armistice.

The community event included participation from representatives of Banff Churches Together, Royal British Legion, Deveron River Brass, Banff Academy and uniformed organisations paraded their colours.

Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire Andrew Simpson, who helped organise the event, said: "The event brought together members of the Royal British Legion as well as the uniformed youth organisations as an intergenerational tribute to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I.

"With excellent contributions from pupils of Banff Academy, Banff Churches Together and the Deveron brass band the afternoon proved to be a fitting occasion for the community to remember those who have served in the armed forces in the pursuit of peace.

"The hope of all who took part is that the generous gift of the memorial bench by Clare Russell, Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire, will help to make this a popular location which local people and visitors can enjoy, as well as being a peaceful place to remember the sacrifice of others.

"I am very grateful to all for the part they played, including staff from Aberdeenshire Council who have worked hard on the care of the Peace Memorial Garden."

During the service the crowd was welcomed by Mrs Russell and she provided the introduction.

Banff Academy head girl Megan Hay read a poem by Ruby Dawson, who attended the school in 1920.

Bible readings were delivered by Jenny Lee of the Methodist Church, Rob McArthur of the River Church and Robin Wiseman of the Shore Fellowship.

Afterwards prayers were said by Dr Alistair Mason of the Episcopal Church and Christine McWhirter of Banff Parish Church.

Mrs Russell then unveiled the bench assisted by Vice-Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire Roger Goodyear and Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Banffshire Andrew Simpson.

Banff Academy head boy Kieran Smith read In Flanders Fields by John McRae before the closing words were delivered by Deacon John Woodside of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church.

After the lowering of the standards and a time of silent reflection a lament was played by Banff Academy piper Owen Chalmers. The closing prayer was then said by Bruce Smith of the Salvation Army.

At the dedication of the original memorial Mrs Russell said: "The dedication will in no way glorify war or mark any kind of celebration of what was one of the darkest moments in the history of mankind. Rather it will be an occasion for people to remember and to work for peace."

The memorial is sited in the field to the right of the turning from the main road towards Duff House. It will take the form of a small copse of trees.

Mr Simpson added: "It is hoped the bench will provide members of the public somewhere to enjoy the surroundings."

* See this week's Banffshire Journal for more pictures.