If you think this is a coincidence...

A HAPPY spring service in the church on Ulva last Sunday had one particularly solemn note – brought to bear by a rather poignant coincidence.

Children from Tobermory Sunday club joined worshippers from Mull and beyond in an Easter service in the beautiful Telford building.

After the fun of worshipping together the congregation gathered at the small war memorial near the front door.

Thoughtful moments were spent laying flowers in memory of Private Alexander McGregor of the 1/ 7 Black Watch (Scottish Horse) who died at the battle of Arras in First World War – and his three comrades in arms. He was only 22.

The flowers were from the garden of Iain Campbell of Tobermory who had discovered that Alexander was not only related to him but also that he died on April 23, 1917, 100 years to the very day of the service on Ulva.

After the act of remembrance the children enjoyed an Easter egg hunt in the kirkyard.

It was said that it was appropriate that the very kirkyard that Alexander could have played in as a child was now filled with the sound of children again.

He who had given his life for his country would surely be smiling at the thought of these young islanders celebrating new life.