Creating a lasting memory

The Cumbernauld Memorial Peace Garden project continues to approach completion and is hoped to be completed before next month’s World War I centennial.
GETTING THERE: With the footpaths complete the layout of the garden is easily visibleGETTING THERE: With the footpaths complete the layout of the garden is easily visible
GETTING THERE: With the footpaths complete the layout of the garden is easily visible

The garden, situated near Ivanhoe Road, is laid out in a poppy formation with each “petal” named after a significant battle of the Great War.

The project is being established by community groups and individual volunteers who hope to create a lasting memorial to the human cost of war, where people can spend time in quiet contemplation.

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To raise awareness of the project and related issues, the volunteers have set up an exhibition at a shop unit in Cumbernauld Town Centre. There are plans to open a second exhibition at the Antonine Centre.

The latest progress on the site is that tarmacing of the footpaths is now complete. The next step is to complete preparation of the flower beds and then the garden will be ready for its opening, planned for August 3. Official invitations are already being sent out to guests.

Scott Campbell, a volunteer for the project, said: “Thank to all those who have visited the town centre exhibition - and to those who have donated to the project at the unit.

“The exhibition will continue until August 2nd, and a second exhibition will open in the Antonine Shopping Centre shortly, at the former Henderson’s Jewellers shop.

“The plans for the official opening are coming together.

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“A parade from Cumbernauld New Town Hall to the Garden will leave at 10:30am, with the Air Cadets, Army Cadet Force, Cumbernauld Environmental Society, Rotary International, Royal British Legion, and the Scouts set to be marching, alongside any interested member(s) of the public

“Once the parade reaches the Garden, the Salvation Army will lead a prayer.

“Rear Admiral Michael Gregory OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire, will then officially open the Garden; and, Miss Teen North Lanarkshire and Miss European, will both release pigeons thereafter, to symbolise the doves of peace and commemorate the number of pigeons which served in the War.”

Anyone wishing to participate in the parade or attend the opening ceremony should contact Scott by emailing him on [email protected].