Lewis pays respects on 100th anniversary of war memorial

The service at Lewis War Memorial recently was led by the Reverend William Heenan from St Columba’s Church in Stornoway and featured the laying of wreaths on behalf of the community of the Western Isles by HM Lord Lieutenant Iain Macaulay and Comhairle convener Councillor Kenny Macleod.

In attendance were hundreds of members of the public, military personnel and church members who gathered around the memorial in misty conditions.

The traditional wreaths were laid and respects paid to the fallen islanders which the memorial commemorates. 

It was built following the first world war and the tragic Iolaire disaster on New Year’s Day 1919 which was called the "crowning sorrow of the war" and saw more than 200 drown outside of Stornoway. 

It was decided one year after these events that the memorial would be built to honour the lives of the 1,151 brave Lewismen who had made the ultimate sacrifice.

It took four years to fund, design and construct the memorial, which was unveiled by the island’s proprietor Lord Leverhulme.

Speaking after the ceremony, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar convenor councillor Kenny Macleod said: “It was great to see so many in attendance to mark this important event in our community’s history. 

"The service gave us an opportunity to gather to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice serving our country. I thank everyone present for their attendance and participation.”