D-Day heroes remembered

Reverend Park said: "It’s very important to remember these anniversaries, particularly when you look at the television documentaries of late, the number of people who actually served are greatly reduced.

"I think that this may be the last one where veterans are actually invited to go over to Normandy. You have to bear in mind, these guys and ladies are well into their 90s, some of them are in the 100s, and it’s amazing that they’re still active to share things with us. 

"It’s good that we continue to remember, even though the veterans will no longer be with us."

Over on Seil, more than 60 people gathered in Ellenabeich for a poignant service paying tribute to those who took part in the D-Day landings, especially those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the fight for freedom, reports Kathie Griffiths.

Recognition was also given to the important role played in Argyll and Bute, and Western Scotland, in readiness for the landings.

William Munro, who represented Seil and Easdale Community Council, welcomed the crowd of islanders and visitors who turned out for the ceremony in the village square.

Piper Jim Robb and standard bearer Donny Reynolds from the Seil and Easdale Branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland (RBLS) led a procession to the square for an address by Netherlorn minister, the Reverend Trudi Newton.

Among prayers and other readings, Netherlorn session clerk Fiona Cruickshanks read poetry in a plea for peace.

After the National Anthem was sung, the procession made its way to the pier where a Seafari Adventures boat took the minister, and representatives from the community council and RBLS to lay two wreaths out at sea.