More details of big parade day
Alastair McClymont of Festivals Crieff was interviewed for a radio programme for the British Forces Broadcasting Services last week.
Alastair spoke enthusiastically about the forthcoming Crieff Remembers programme set for July, which will see Festivals Crieff put on a variety of events to commemorate the 100th anniversary of World War One.
In the interview, Alastair highlighted the importance of forging local community spirit and creating a lasting legacy for young people to learn from. He also thanked Legion Scotland for coming on board with Crieff Remembers and its parade to honour the thousands that fell at the Battle of Passchendaele.
Last week the Herald revealed that the event will now be a major one in the nation’s calendar to mark the centenery.
Kevin Gray MM, chief executive of Royal British Legion Scotland (Legion Scotland), told the Herald that Legion Scotland is delighted to be involved.
He said: “We are delighted that we are able to play a part in bringing something that has a local community feel to Crieff as well as encouraging more from outside the area to come and visit the town for the day. Remembrance of those who sadly gave their lives is very important to us but equally education of people so that we don’t make the same mistakes again.
“The things that mainly attracted us were that it is a local community event that is getting turned into a national event so it’s good for the town, good for the local area and for the education of our young people.”
Mr Gray said Legion Scotland would be inviting senior UK and Scottish Government officials and military figures, and hinted at what visitors can expect. He added: “The day will start off with a parade through town. We are looking at three different elements to the parade - there will be a serving element- those who are currently serving in the armed forces - a cadet element and there will be a veterans aspect as well with veterans’ organisations forming part of the parade as well. There will be pipe bands and music to lead them down to Market Park. We are also looking at this stage to have vintage military vehicles potentially leading the parade. The unique thing about that is that those who are disabled or infirm could travel in the military vehicles.
“There will be serving military bands and pipes and drums from the local area plus standard bearers from different organisations. It will be a big spectacle leading to the drum head service in the park. That will be the commemoration part of the day.
“The rest of the day will then be a community event in the park featuring pipe bands playing and displays, charity stands, bouncy castles for the children and people dressed in uniform from WWI who will engage with the community. The day will culminate in a beating of the retreat.”
It will be a big spectacle leading to the drum head service