Hero’s face in the sands
Hundreds joined together on Ayr sands in a nationwide gesture of remembrance for millions who left our shores during the war, never to return.
Commemorations in the town began in Wellington square beside the Cenotaph to the sound of bagpipes playing Battle’s O’er before moving to Ayr beach for the Pages of the sea tribute, led by film director Danny Boyle and organised in conjunction with the National theatre of scotland.
the giant artwork paid tribute to second Lieutenant Walter tull, the British Army’s first black officer, who trained in Gailes, Ayrshire.
Watching on was Ayr veteran William Brodie, 87, whose grandfather and great- uncle fought in the war, before William himself followed in their footsteps and served as a soldier in Britain and in the Mediterranean.
He said: “this is a gracious tribute and recognition for all those who have served and I’m glad I came along to see it.”
Provost Moonie said: “the commemorations show that the memories and the legacies of all those lost through battles and wars well and truly live on and that, here in south Ayrshire, we know we will ne’er forget the people.
“I was humbled and moved by the support shown by our people and places and was very proud to be part of this historic occasion marking the centenary of the end of World War One.”