Flying Scotsman Eric Liddell honoured in Paris ceremony
A ceremony has taken place in France to honour the life and achievements of Eric Liddell in the centenary year of his legendary Olympic victory.
The athlete, who attended Edinburgh University and lived and taught in the Capital, won gold in the 400 metres at the 1924 Olympic Games, held in Paris. As the French capital prepares to host this summer’s Olympics, a plaque has been unveiled at the stadium where the race took place.
Translated into English, it reads: “This plaque is in honour of Eric Liddell, the ‘Flying Scotsman’, and his victory at the Stade Yves-du-Manoir during the Paris Olympic Games in 1924. A sporting and human example which remains a symbol of friendship between France, Scotland and the United Kingdom. A legend. A heritage. A source of inspiration.”
The event was attended by more than 250 people, including members of the Eric Liddell Community in Edinburgh, a charity set up in 1980 to continue his legacy through the provision of specialist dementia care. The charity is also behind the Eric Liddell 100 campaign, launched in 2022 to celebrate his life, work and achievements, and to share the timeless lessons of his life as a missionary and sportsman with the world.
Campaign CEO John MacMillan, who addressed the ceremony, said: “Celebrating Eric Liddell’s remarkable journey at the very grounds where he etched his name in Olympic history is a profound honour. Through the Eric Liddell 100 campaign, we strive not only to commemorate his extraordinary achievements but also to inspire all who encounter his story.”