CWGC completes work in Scotland
11 December 2012
There are more than 170,000 Commonwealth War
Graves in the United Kingdom and, of these, 20,000 are found
in Scotland.
Scotland was an important centre for both training and
operational units during both world wars and war graves are to be
found at over 1,200 locations. Many of these locations are remote
and difficult to access - with 75% of cemeteries containing fewer
than 10 casualties.
Following a general inspection in 2011, several of these plots
were highlighted as falling below the Commission's high standards
of maintenance. Work to renovate the plots quickly got under way
and a number of projects are now nearing completion.
Our UK staff have worked with local contractors and councils to
renovate plots in Campbeltown, Stornaway and Ashaig on Skye.
At Campbeltown (Kilkerran) Cemetery, the old turf was removed
and the entire cemetery re-levelled. A headstone border was also
introduced and planted with mixed heathers. The planting is
currently covered with a protective cloche to prevent damage from
rabbits and deer. The cloche will be removed when the plants are
more established.
A full horticultural renovation was also carried out at Kilbride
Cemetery Arran, following the renewal of the foundation beam in
which the headstones sit.
Plans are already in place for further renovation projects to
take place next Spring.