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Rogart War Memorial refurbishment complete


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A MAJOR project to refurbish Rogart War Memorial has been completed in time for this year’s Remembrance Sunday service.

Since the Creich and Kincardine Branch of Legion Scotland took over the administration of the Rogart and Lairg Branch a few years ago, members have been working to return the war memorial to its former glory.

Rogart War Memorial has been refurbished thanks to community benefit funding from local wind farms.
Rogart War Memorial has been refurbished thanks to community benefit funding from local wind farms.

Work was delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic and winter weather, although funding – from Kilbraur Community Fund and Gordonbush Community Fund – has been in place for some time.

The area was prepared in advance of the main project with hedging and a cherry tree, whose roots were threatening the structure, removed.

Local contractor Don Dickson was finally able to undertake the major part of the project this summer.

The railings and gate have been completely refurbished; the cast iron was stripped “back to black” and repainted with sections too badly corroded replaced.

The gate, which was difficult to open, was taken away and adjusted so that the garden can now be easily accessed. The back fence of tensioned steel wires was a health and safety hazard but now a steel bar provides a secure, safe fence.

The memorial itself was cleaned and the wreath holder on it was painted gold. The moss covered wall and stones were cleaned and repointed. Stone chippings in the memorial garden were replaced

Local volunteers have been able to complete the works in the gardens, thanks to a micro grant approved by Rogart Community Council. The flower beds were reduced to a more manageable size, tidied up and and replanted, including spring bulbs, and mulched with bark.

The flagpole has been repaired and a new Union Jack was donated.

Project manager and former branch secretary Fiona Porter said “Our aim was not only to restore this beautiful site in the centre of the village but to help the community maintain it in future by making it more manageable.

“The contractor and his team did a great job. But I am also very grateful to my Legion Scotland colleagues and to the Rogart volunteers, especially Kate Roach who has provided fantastic support to get the project done.

“I am so pleased the work has been completed before this year’s Remembrance Sunday service so that the people of Rogart can remember the fallen at a site that properly reflects their gratitude and respect for the sacrifices they made.”


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