THE future of Remembrance Sunday services in Peebles is in jeopardy unless a new organiser can be found.

At the latest community council meeting, chairman Laurie Hayworth raised the alarm following a discussion with the new Lord Lieutenant,

Professor Sir Hew Strachan, about the upcoming event in November.
Concerns over the yearly services emerged after it was revealed that Kathleen Mason, co-ordinator for the services, including the Peebles parade, has retired from Scottish Borders Council. 

Mr Hayworth said: “In many other towns across the Borders, the organising role is taken on by a member of the British Legion. However, after the Lord Lieutenant asked members of the Peebles branch of the British Legion, no members felt they were able to take on the role. 

“The issue was then raised to see if anyone from the community council or the Beltane Festival could take on the role, but sadly not.

“The search is now on to find a successor to organise the Remembrance Sunday event in Peebles. Peebles Community Council can’t co-ordinate the event, but will assist to liaise with the British Legion for three to five years to help organise events.

“After discussion with Kathleen, she has said that she will liaise with the successor to ensure a smooth transition, and will shadow the volunteer for this first year. The ideal candidate to take on this duty would be someone from the ex-forces.”

Each year, hundreds of residents line the streets of Peebles on Remembrance Sunday to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Professor Sir Hew Strachan, the Lord Lieutenant for Tweeddale, told the Peeblesshire News: “Discussions are ongoing to find someone to help co-ordinate arrangements for the Remembrance Day ceremony in Peebles. Kathleen Mason is continuing as Clerk to the Lieutenancy for the time being.”

Anyone interested in taking up the role of co-ordinator can contact the Lord Lieutenant on 07580 788 451.