Anniversary hope for new war memorial
Perth looks set to get a brand new war memorial to commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE Day in May.
Perth and Kinross Council’s (PKC) armed forces and veterans’ champion Councillor Chris Ahern has fought to erect a memorial to those who have fallen regardless of their service or conflict.
Plans for the memorial were submitted to the council last week with hopes for it to be passed and completed in time for the VE anniversary celebrations on May 10.
The proposal is to erect the memorial at St John’s Kirk on St John’s Street, Perth.
There are plans for a parade through the city to Perth Concert Hall for a civic reception following a dedication of the memorial.
The Perth City Centre councillor said: “Currently Armistice Day is held at the Mercat Cross and this has been an issue for the veterans and families of Perth.
“It has been a long process as we have had to look at various sites that would not only accommodate the memorial but would also allow for a service to be held on Armistice Day.
“We have been in contact with veterans’ associations to get their opinions and agreement.
“The Perth Veterans Association has applied to the Perth Common Good Fund for funding and this will be presented to the committee on February 19.
“Should this be successful it will start the process of procurement and then construction.”
Cllr Ahern added: “As far as I am aware this issue has been discussed for at least 15 years, but it has probably been longer than that.
“So, I am delighted that this has been sorted out by this Scottish Conservative council administration.”
Murdo Fraser, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, said: “I very much welcome this initiative.
“It would be a fitting memorial for all those who have fallen in the service of their country.”
Provost Dennis Melloy added: “For many years now there has been a call for a monument to honour the fallen from Perth and Kinross who served in all the armed forces in all conflicts.
“This monument, which will be at the rear of the iconic St John’s Kirk, which houses the war memorial to the fallen from two world wars, is an ideal site in the centre of the city of Perth and easily accessible for families and visitors to pay homage to their bravery and ultimate sacrifice.
“I am delighted that progress has at last been made and I look forward to seeing the monument completed.
“‘Lest we forget’ is as fitting now as it has always been.
“My sincere congratulations to everyone involved in this important project.”
Currently Armistice Day is held at the Mercat Cross and this has been an issue for veterans