Fitting memorial
New benches take pride of place
Visitors to Whitburn War Memorial have somewhere to sit and reflect thanks to four new benches funded by generous locals.
The idea for attractive new benches came from Kevin Heggie, Armistice Parade Co-ordinator for Whitburn and his friend Ian Tennant, who had discussed the possibility of raising funds to replace the two existing benches at the memorial.
Kevin took the task in hand and approached a number of local organisations with the prospect of fundraising.
The new benches cost in the region of nearly £800 each and, thanks to some sterling fundraising from members of the public, £3500 was raised and that was enough for four war memorial benches and a new war memorial refuse bin.
The new benches were put in place at a special memorial dedication ceremony this spring which attracted large crowds.
Rev Dr Angus Kerr ( Whitburn South Parish Church) held a dedication ceremony and the new benches were unveiled.
Following the service the Lord Provost Mr Tom Kerr also commemorated with some kind words and invited all to the South Church Hall for a buffet. The Memorial BencheswereBenches were sponsored by the following groups and people; World War One Bench, LOL 81 and Whitburn Flute Band, World War Two bench, LOL 203 and LLOL 150, Sir Galahad Falklands War Ship, LOL 403 and Colin Hilditch and the Poppy Field Memorial Bench, Whitburn Masonic 927, The Royal Arch and The Order Of The Eastern Star.
Kevin said: “I can’t thank the above aboveorganisationsenoughfortheirorganisations enough for their generosity.
“Without their financial support I would never have had the opportunity to achieve this absolute fitting tribute to the members of our armed forces who have served in past and present conflicts.
“I am hoping that this will give the families of our fallen an area where they can sit, relax and reflect.”