Cars near Cenotaph removed
Poppy service ignored
Motorists last weekend had their cars taken away after they parked them in the street where Stirling’s Remembrance Day service was being held.
Signs were erected in Corn Exchange Road in the days leading up to event warning drivers not to park there on the morning of the event.
However, police and Royal British Legion organisers had a shock when they turned up on Sunday to begin final preparations for the event that day.
Thoughtless drivers had failed to heed the warnings and parked near the Cenotaph, where wreaths were to be laid, and alongside the Municipal Buildings where the salute was to be taken.
Inspector Gerry Mcmenemy of Police Scotland said: “Six vehicles were removed and relocated nearby to allow the event to run as planned.
“It is worth remembering that the cost of moving these cars is met by the owners and not ourselves or the council.
“A lot of planning goes into this event by the local authority, the police and other organisations to ensure they run safely.
“Part of this is making sure there are no vehicles left along the relevant routes.
“People were well notified of this ahead of Sunday and failing to consider this is not only a parking offence but could cause disruption to what is a solemn event.”
Stirling Provost Mike Robbins, who led the tributes to Stirling’s war heroes, said: “The police had to move six cars, cars that were left by people who completely ignored the notices put up. It is outrageous. With everything happening in the world, it’s not difficult to shift your car.”
Despite the disruption, the Remembrance event went well with a service at the Church of the Holy Rude followed by a parade to the Cenotaph by ex-services personnel, soldiers of 7 Scots and University Officer Training Corp, Royal Burgh of Stirling Pipe Band and other organisations. Around 30 wreaths were laid at the Cenotaph.