Scotland pays tribute on Remembrance Sunday

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon at Edinburgh's Remembrance Sunday event. Picture: Greg Macvean

Ceremonies and parades were today held throughout Scotland to remember servicemen and women killed in conflict.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon attended the annual service at St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh and laid a wreath on behalf of the people of Scotland.

Remembrance Sunday events were also held in Glasgow, Stirling, Aberdeen and across the Highlands, while veterans charity Legion Scotland has organised a number of parades, including in Brechin, Alloa, Kirkcaldy and Annan.

At the event in the capital, Ms Sturgeon was joined by Scotland Office Minister Andrew Dunlop and representatives from a range of charities and organisations.

The wreath laying will be held at the Stone of Remembrance outside the City Chambers on the Royal Mile.

Ms Sturgeon said: “Remembrance Sunday is an opportunity for all of Scotland, in common with people in many other nations across the world, to pause in sombre reflection to commemorate the loss of life in conflicts large and small over the last century.

“It is a chance to honour the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, while also paying tribute to our veterans and those who continue to serve today.

“The laying of a wreath is a small but significant tribute, and I am privileged to do so on behalf of the people of Scotland.”

Lord Dunlop said: “It is hugely important we remember the servicemen and women who have given their lives so we can enjoy the freedoms we have in the United Kingdom.

“It is an honour to lay a wreath as part of Legion Scotland’s ceremony to pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We should also recognise the vital role our Armed Forces currently play in keeping our country’s defences strong.”

Other political leaders also paid tribute.

The Remembrance Day service outside City Chambers in Edinburgh. Picture: Greg Macvean

Scottish Labour Leader Kezia Dugdale will attend the event in the capital, while shadow Scottish secretary Ian Murray will be at a service at a church in his Edinburgh South constituency.

Ms Dugdale said: “Today we remember the sacrifices of all the courageous men and women who died serving our country, whose actions kept our nation safe and who we have to thank for defending our freedom. From the Great War to Afghanistan, we owe a debt to every member of our Armed Forces who fought for this country.

“We also remember today the families they left behind who had to carry on their lives without them.”

Mr Murray said: “Today, people will gather at war memorials, in churches and in community halls across Scotland to mark the sacrifice of the men and women of our Armed Forces. Every community in Scotland was touched by the Great War 100 years ago, and many more have been touched by conflict since.”

A Remembrance Day parade on Edinburgh's Royal Mile. Picture: Greg Macvean

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said: “Remembrance Sunday is a worthwhile reminder of the sacrifices made, in past decades and today, by those in our Armed Forces. Their fearless and selfless actions ensure we can live freely and safely.

“I for one will be making sure I take the time to acknowledge and remember their efforts.”