Region to mark 80th anniversary of VJ Day

ANNANDALE and Eskdale is set to host a number of ceremonies to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) on Friday August 15.

Commemorative events will take place at Annan War Memorial, 10.50 am; Langholm War Memorial, 10.45 am; Lochmaben War Memorial, 11 am; and Moffat Town Hall, 11 am.

On the following day, Saturday, August 16, a VJ80 parade will take place in Dumfries town centre from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm.

It will include retired and serving armed forces personnel, members of local cadet units and other uniformed organisations taking part.

The parade will be led by members of the Dumfries and Annan Town Bands and will include a display of John Webster Vintage Army Vehicles, the Royal British Legions Scotland (RBLS) Riders Branch and Standard Bearers from RBLS Branches.

The Provost of Dumfries, councillor Tracey Little, will deliver the welcome and the councils’ Armed Forces Champion, councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE will act as master of ceremonies.

Vice lord-lieutenant for Dumfries, Mr Gordon Dickie will address the parade.

And wreaths will be laid by Mr Dickie; lord-lieutenant for The Stewartry of Kirkcudbright, The Lord Sinclair; and lord-lieutenant for Wigtown, Mrs Aileen Brewis.

Cllr Dryburgh said: “As the 80th Anniversary of the VJ Day approaches, our council is preparing to honour the occasion.

“We hope that many people will be able to support us on the day in commemorating the sacrifices that were made by so many of our comrades then, and in recognition of the continued active service of every soldier, sailor and aviator, and their families, who form part of our invaluable armed forces today.”