Remembering the Battle of Britain’s ‘Fighting Few’ at Grangemouth memorial

Falkirk Provost Billy Buchanan led a small ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

Today (Tuesday) at 11.11 am, Provost Buchanan laid a wreath at the Spitfire memorial in Grangemouth to mark the occasion.

In a speech, the Provost said: “It is sad that because of Covid we are restricted to a small attendance for such an important and significant anniversary in our history.”

The Battle of Britain was a key victory for the allies – won despite relentless air raids by the Luftwaffe between July and October, 1940.

“It is fitting that this small service recognises the importance of RAF Grangemouth during the turbulent times and to remember those 71 trainee pilots from 11 countries who died whilst on training,” said Provost Buchanan.

“The memorial that proudly stands here remembers the contribution of hundreds of Polish and other international pilots who developed their skills at the airfield.”

The Provost and his wife Fiona were joined by RAF Squadron Leader Tom McMorrow, former Officer Commanding 1333 (Grangemouth, Spitfire) Squadron Air Cadets.

Councillor Gordon Hughes attended on behalf of the SNP group along with  Labour group leader Robert Bissett and Conservative leader James Kerr.

The town’s three local councillors Robert Spears, Allyson Black and David Balfour were also present as was former Provost, Councillor Pat Reid.