Campbeltown commemorates D-Day heroes

The service was led by Reverend Steven Sass and featured piping from Campbeltown lifeboat mechanic Ross Conner, who played Flowers of the Forest and Road to the Isles, two of the tunes played by lone Scottish piper William Millin as his comrades stormed the beaches in 1944.

After enjoying fish suppers in honour of National Fish and Chip Day – traditionally celebrated on the first Friday of June but held this year on June 6 to coincide with the D-Day 80 celebrations – RBLS members returned to the cenotaph at 9.15pm for the lighting of a peace lamp.

During the evening service, piper John McGeachy played Blue Bonnets o’er the Border at the memorial and afterwards Ross piped from atop the lifeboat which was anchored in Campbeltown Loch.

On behalf of the RBLS Campbeltown branch, chairman George Rahman thanked everyone involved for their efforts in making sure the anniversary was commemorated, as well as the community for turning out in force.

He added: “Thanks to the RNLI, and Ross Conner in particular, for their support on the day and helping us out at the last minute. The RNLI played a big part in the D-Day landings and throughout the war so this really added to the occasion.”

Kintyre Care Centre also marked the 80th anniversary, enjoying their own fish supper lunch before welcoming singers Sarah Morton and Diane McCaig, collectively named Take Note, to perform classic tunes while donning clothing reminiscent of the 1940s. 

Care home resident Duncan McDougall presented each of the ladies with flowers to thank them for entertaining residents and staff. 

Senior wellbeing co-ordinator Susan Ellis said: “Sarah and Diane were delighted to be asked to sing for us and enjoyed performing for the residents. They were particularly impressed with the dancing.

“The ladies did not want any payment for their performance and instead suggested that Kintyre Care Centre make a small donation to the RBLS Campbeltown branch which we are very happy to do.”