Kiefer Sutherland thanks Falkirk for family statue

A Hollywood star has thanked all those involved in siting a statue to his grandfather at a Falkirk landmark '“ and has promised to visit soon.

Keifer Sutherland is the grandson of Thomas Clement Douglas.

Kiefer Sutherland is the grandson of Thomas Clement Douglas, a social reformer and politician who was born in the nearby village of Camelon in 1904. The acclaimed actor sent a message for the ceremony when a bronze bust was unveiled in the visitor centre at the Falkirk Wheel.

The family of Tommy Douglas left their home in a Sunnyside tenement to emigrate to Canada in 1910 where he went on to dedicate his adult life to helping others, firstly through the Christian ministry and then in politics, eventually becoming the Premier of Saskatchewan province from 1944 to 1962.

He introduced Medicare – free health care – for all Canadians and in 2004, two years before his death, was voted 2The Greatest Canadian2 in a poll run by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

For over a decade members of Camelon Local History Society, led by the late Willie Abercrombie, researched the life and times of Tommy Douglas and were determined to ensure his memory was never forgotten.

Kenneth Shirra, a member of the group, said: “Willie Abercrombie was what we now call a community activist, someone like Tommy Douglas, who cared about the place and the people around him.

“He was always keen to see some sort of tribute to him locally.”

However, following Mr Abercrombie’s death in 2009 plans came to a standstill before being resurrected a few years ago. Mr Shirra added: “When Tesco and Aldi opened in Camelon there was planning gain and this money was to be used to erect a fitting memorial to Tommy Douglas, the man from this area who made such an impact on the life of others.”

With the support of MSP Michael Matheson, Falkirk Community Trust, Provost Pat Reid and Falkirk Council the bust was commissioned from Alloa artist Walter Awlson. Provost Reid read out the email from Kiefer Sutherland, which stated: “To the town of Falkirk , Falkirk Council and Walter Awlson, on behalf of myself and my family I would like to say how honoured we are that you have chosen to recognise Tommy Douglas. We look forward to visiting as soon as possible to see the finished statue.”

Sutherland is best known for his role as Jack Bauer in hit the hit TV show, 24.