School kids trophy time
Presented in honour of VC hero
Two schools have benefited from the generosity of the Craigneuk War Memorial Group who handed over trophies in honour of a Victoria Cross hero.
The group, which is winding down after starting life in 2006, donated the awards to Berryhill and St Thomas Primary Schools in honour of Corporal William Clamp who was awarded the VC for actions on October 9, 1917 at the Battle of Poelcapelle, Belgium which led to his death.
Berryhill Primary headteacher Carrie Nicol said: “We are delighted to be part of this legacy and we consider it an honour and a privilege to be able to present this award in Corporal Clamp’s memory.
“This year we presented it to Jamie Ginn of primary three.
“Jamie is a courageous little boy who works hard every day and always looks out for others. He is a very worthy recipient.
“We were also fortunate to have Joe O’Raw MBE, a member of the committee and a war veteran himself, come along today to present the trophy.
“Other members of the committee came along to join in the celebrations too.”
The St Thomas Primary award was presented to P7 Craigneuk lad Shea Gilmour for his great work throughout the year.
St Thoma s P rima r y headteacher Mary Cruickshank said: “It’s always good to raise the profile of someone like William Clamp.
“To have a VC winner from Craigneuk should be celebrated.”
William Clamp was part of an advance which was being checked by intense machinegun fire from concrete blockhouses and by snipers in ruined buildings.
He was first to reach the blockhouse and hurled in bombs.
He entered and brought out a machine-gun and about 20 prisoners before continuing to display great heroism until he was killed in the battle by a sniper. As well as handing the awards to both schools the group will be donating the remainder of the money to Craigneuk Community Council for a Christmas tree outside the library for the area’s festive celebrations.
Jean Ewart , from the Craigneuk War Memorial Group, said: “I thought the events went very well and the support the young people get from the schools is fantastic.
“They are very well nurtured by the school.”