Council’s formal tribute to Islay’s WW100 group
The Lord Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Patrick Stewart, and Islay’s WW100 chairwoman, Jenni Minto, have received formal thanks from Argyll and Bute Council. At a full council meeting members paid tribute to the Islay WW100 committee for its part in organising the national remembrance events. These commemorated the centenary to honour those who lost their lives in the sinking of SS Tuscania and the collision of HMS Otranto in 1918. The sinkings occurred off the shores of Islay during the Great War. It is hoped the Friday May 4 events, including a re-dedication of the American memorial at the Mull of Oa and the laying of a wreath by the Princess Royal will provide a lasting legacy for Islay. Provost of Argyll and Bute Councillor Len Scoullar said: ‘The WW100 group, both national and local, must be congratulated for arranging such a well-organised series of events to honour and pay respect to those who lost their lives in these tragedies, and commemorate the people of Islay who were involved in the response to the incidents. ‘Particular mention must be made of the group’s chairwoman, Jenni Minto, and the Lord Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Patrick Stewart, for the hard work and dedication they have shown throughout the whole process. ‘The success of these events is a great credit to them, the organisers and the local community. ‘I would also like to thank the council officers who were involved in the commemorations for all their help in ensuring the day went smoothly as well as the island’s school pupils for their valuable contributions. ‘The island really came together, engaging young and old, showcasing resilience, compassion and kindness. ‘It was a great pleasure and a privilege for Argyll and Bute Council to be part of this.’ The commemorations attracted worldwide media attention. As well as HRH Princess Anne and her husband Sir Tim Laurence, a number of senior representatives from the UK, the USA, France and Germany attended and members of a wide range of communities across Islay and descendants of those people involved in the tragedy at the time. Islay and Jura lost more than 200 of its own men on the battlefields and seas of WWI.