THE Galashiels branch of the Royal British Legion has no plans for a service in the town to mark the start of the First World War in August.

The claim caused consternation at Gala Community Events Group - a subcommittee of the community council - on Thursday night when members discussed the impact The Great War had on the town.

Former local authority leader Drew Tulley said: “635 men from Galashiels lost their lives in WW1, so we should be doing something to mark its start on August 4.” The group’s secretary, Tracey Alder, reminded members that although the Royal British Legion had no plans to hold an event to commemorate World War One they did wish to be kept in the loop with whatever the Events Group planned.

Nationally there will be a Drumhead Service at Edinburgh Castle on August 10 marking the start of the four year conflict. And every community council in the country has been invited to send a local representative.

It is expected to attract a congregation of more than 9,000 people from across Scotland. The multi-faith service on the Castle esplanade will replicate those held on the front line 100 years ago when, in a long-held military tradition, neatly piled drums with draped Colours were used in place of an altar.

At the Events group Councillor Bill White agreed to send an email to the Galashiels branch of the Royal British Legion to confirm its plans.

Speaking after the meeting, Councillor White said: “So far there has been no response to my email, at the least we should have a short service and perhaps a pipe band.

“I think a good thing to do would be to do what they do in Canada and read out a list of all those men who lost their lives. We need to put something in place now as it is only days away.”