Remembrance Day 2024 marked in Hamilton and across South Lanarkshire

Remembrance Day commemorations were observed throughout Hamilton and South Lanarkshire in a poignant and solemn manner in 2024. Services were held at the Bothwell Park cenotaph and the Victoria Cross memorial to honour those who sacrificed their lives in past wars and conflicts on both Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day.

Poppy wreaths were respectfully laid, and two-minute silences were impeccably observed during the ceremonies in Hamilton. The community came together to pay their respects, with hundreds of armed forces personnel, veterans, emergency services, politicians, and members of the public attending the Remembrance Sunday service at Bothwell Road park’s cenotaph.

Led by the Vice lord lieutenant of Lanarkshire Gavin Whitefield and South Lanarkshire provost Margaret Cooper, the laying of wreaths was a solemn moment accompanied by a moving lament played by pipe major David Stark. The ceremony, presided over by Rev Ross Blackman of Hamilton Old parish church and Rev Joanne Hood of St John’s parish church, included touching readings by local students and military representatives.

Additionally, Remembrance services were conducted in various communities across South Lanarkshire, with notable participation from local representatives like Clydesdale MSP Mairi McAllan. Honoring the sacrifices made for freedom and democracy, wreaths were laid at different memorials as a mark of respect and gratitude for those who served.

The poignant ceremonies in Hamilton and South Lanarkshire serve as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought for peace and freedom. By coming together as a community to pay tribute to the fallen, we continue to honour their memory and uphold the significance of Remembrance Day in our hearts and minds.