British Legion tracing veterans

The Royal British Legion is aiming to trace all surviving World War II veterans, offering them the opportunity to revisit the places where they served and pay their respects to their fallen comrades.

Monklands veterans are eligible for free tours, accompanied by a family member and carer, which allow them to meet up with fellow veterans and visit significant battlefields, cemeteries and memorials.

The funded trips take place between March and September and include all travel, accommodation and entrance fees, plus the services of a medic and an official guide from the Royal British Legion.

Legion head of travel Nichola Rowlands-Smith said:“We know how great the British public can be, and we’re relying on everyone to help us spread the word to find every living WWII veteran.

“There’s no database – so if you’re a grandchild, neighbour or carer and know someone who fought in WWII, please tell them about these tours.”

She added:“We have organised tours for hundreds of D-Day veterans, a family member and carer, and it has proven a very moving experience for all.

“We have been campaigning to widen the tours, as so many gave so much, and we feel that they all deserve a final tour back to lay old ghosts to rest.”

The Legion has run tours to Normandy for four years, and has received additional funding to extend its programme.

Monklands veterans wishing to benefit from this tour are asked to visit www. arenatravel.com/our-holidays/