We will never forget their sacrifice for our country

Villagers in Monkton joined gatherings across South Ayrshire as the county remembered the 80th anniversary of VE Day-Victory in Europe.

- PAUL BEHAN

Children from Monkton Primary School joined forces with some of the village's older residents as they came together on Thursday, May 8 at the War Memorial.

The setting was the perfect, yet poignant, venue where the community took a moment to remember the end of armed hostilities and Germany's unconditional surrender in World War II in 1945.

Rev Douglas Muir spoke to the assembled crowd and conducted the ceremony.

Then, at 11am, the community, including pupils from Monkton Primary School and the Cosy Space social group, stepped forward with painted poppy stones, all with their unique designs and messages, and laid them at the foot of the memorial.

A lone piper was also on hand to provide a sombre reflection of the sacrifices of the great many from the past.

Helping in advance of the ceremony with some of the painted poppy stone designs was local artist Yvonne Hamilton.

Also in attendance were members of the Royal British Legion Scotland, along with standard bearers, members of Monkton Community Council and Central Ayrshire MP, Alan Gemmell.