McLeod welcomes announcement of Centenary Memorials Restoration Fund
SNP MSP for the South of Scotland Dr Aileen McLeod today (Tuesday) welcomed the Scottish Government’s announcement of £1 million to clean and restore Scotland’s war memorials in advance of next year’s commemoration of the centenary of the start of the First World War. Dr McLeod commented: “Almost every town and village across Dumfries and Galloway has a war memorial to commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice in both World Wars and other conflicts. “These memorials are often an important part of the landscape of our town and villages, and increasing attendances at Remembrance Day services demonstrate people’s wish to continue to honour those how lost their lives. “The First World War is a hugely important event in Scottish history and its impact was not confined to the generation who fought. “I am delighted therefore that the Government is making funding available to clean and restore war memorials that may have fallen into disrepair and I would urge any local organisation or community with a memorial they would like to restore to contact Historic Scotland to apply for funding. “Each memorial in Scotland reminds us of the sacrifice made by those who died during the Great War, the Second World War and other conflicts. They remind us of the futility of war and the necessity that we never forget the sacrifice made by those who fell in conflict.” Notes to Editors: Historic Scotland has supported the sensitive conservation and repair of war memorials in Scotland since 2008 through a dedicated grant scheme administered by the War Memorials Trust (WMT). The creation of this new fund, which is open now, will allow communities across Scotland to carry out maintenance of memorials as part the 100th anniversary of the First World War. Any enquiries about grants should be sent to Historic Scotland Investment Team at Longmore House, Salisbury Place, Edinburgh EH 9 ASH. Tel: 0131 668 8801; email: hs.grants@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
