HELENSBURGH gathered to remember the Battle of Jutland

On Saturday, May 14, a commemorative event to remember the Battle of Jutland which was the First World War’s only full scale clash of battleships.

Serving sailors and soldiers were joined by members of veteran’s associations, cadets and local dignitaries for a parade through town which ended in a poignant drumhead service.

The parade was led by HMS Neptune Volunteer Band and included a marching platoon from HM Naval Base Clyde, members of the First Battalion of the Scots Guards, and D Company, 51 Highland, of the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Also participating were the Helensburgh Clan Colquhoun Pipe Band, Sea Cadets, Army Training Cadets and members of the Guides and Brownies.

Taking salute was Lord Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire, Rear Admiral Michael Gregory OBE, who was joined by Lord Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, Patrick Stewart, Provost of Argyll and Bute, Councillor Len Scoullar, and Naval Base Commander Clyde, Commodore Mark Gayfer RN.

The drumhead service is a type of religious service held by the military and so-called because drums are used as an altar. It was conducted by Reverend Neil Allison and Royal Navy Chaplain Reverend Mark Dalton.

During the service, local schoolgirl Chloe Maguire, 12, read from Ephesians 6:10-18 and Rear Admiral Gregory spoke about the Battle and the bravery and sacrifice of those who took part.

Irene White, chairperson of Legion Scotland, said: “Members of the public gathered and took part in the service. Afterwards we had a reception in the Victoria halls. The day events were a great success.

“I would like to thank everyone who was involved in the events in any way as they all contributed to the success including Commodore Mark Gayfer, who took the salute.”

Local councillors attended the event which marked 100 years since the Battle took place.

Councillor Aileen Morton said: “I think it is important to remember important events such as the Battle of Jutland so that we do not forget those who gave their lives for their country – they deserve to be remembered, they deserve to be mourned.

“Seeing the Square full of serving officers, veterans and cadets as well as local residents and visitors for the commemorative service was a very visible reminder that our armed forces are such an important part of our community.”

Councillor Richard Trail also attended the event in the Square and described it as a solemn occasion.

He said: “In his address the Lord Lieutenant reminded us of the immense loss of life in the battle. In remembering the sacrifices of 100 years ago we honour the young sailors of today who continue the tradition of service to their country.

“It was a public acknowledgement of the debt of gratitude that we owe to our veterans who attended the service.”

The estimated number of people on parade at the event was 200, with even more in attendance, a turnout that Argyll and Bute council Veterans champion Maurice Corry MSP was more than happy with.

He said: “I was pleased with the turnout of the armed forces and the other organisations, the veterans on parade was nice to see.

“We were lucky with the weather which made the colours on display all the more impressive. I am grateful for everyone who turned out on the day and those who took the service.

“I am also very grateful to Commodore Clyde and his team for providing so much support and making everything possible and of course I am more than grateful to Irene White of Legion Scotland who chaired the events committee and brought everything together.

“I was pleased with all the commemorative events which took place over the weekend and thankful to all those who took part, organised and came along.”