The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Marines’ bench for sale
8ft pew is up for auction to raise funds for a war memorial to Commando colleagues in the Highlands
Angus veterans have come off the bench to support a war memorial for their Commando colleagues.
Arbroath businesswoman Fiona Laing, a former Wren, and friend Robert Harris, a former serving Royal Marine at the local RM Condor base, decided to raise money for an addition to the Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge.
Fiona, who hit the headlines in 2013 when she handed £7.20 to ex-armed forces minister Sir Nick Harvey after he claimed expenses for a Remembrance Day visit, now owns Heather Cottage Crafts and has designed a bench with many links to the serving community.
Mr Harris wrote a poem especially for the bench, which is being auctioned off to raise money for a permanent equivalent in the Highlands.
Aircraft mechanic Fiona runs a rally driving team with current and former armed forces personnel, which has raised thousands of pounds for charities in Enduro events.
She made history as the first female driver to take part in Rally for Heroes in August 2012
“I’ve always been passionate about fundraising and helping those who need a helping hand,” she said.
“I’m Arbroath-born but was brought up in Carnoustie and I returned, as you can take the girl out of Scotland but a wren will always find her way home.”
The 8ft pew came from Lintrathen Parish Church near Kirriemuir when it closed in 2011 and has been emblazoned with the Latin motto “Per Mare Per Terram” or “by sea by land” and the Commando Ethos on the back.
The ends also incorporate images of First World War Commandos entering fields of poppies.
“Over 50 hours of painting and time has gone into this bench and it is truly one of a kind,” Fiona added.
“We would love for the bench to stay local, perhaps in one of the messes up at Condor, but it’s open for bidding.”
Bids will be accepted until noon on Friday March 31, by calling Fiona on 07763626508 or via the Heather Cottage Crafts Facebook page or at the shop in Market Place.
Over 50 hours of painting and time has gone into this bench and it is truly one of a kind. FIONA LAING