Veterans have come together across a charity’s network of care homes to switch on a virtual “Tree of Honour”, in memory of those who passed.

Family members and care home staff joined veterans at dedication services at Erskine’s homes in Glasgow, Bishopton and Edinburgh. 

The ceremonies offered an opportunity for a quiet moment to remember those no longer with us this Christmas time.

Erskine also launched their own Virtual Tree of Honour, giving anyone looking to pay tribute to a loved one the chance to do so by placing a star on the virtual tree.

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Central Car Auctions sponsored the event at Erskine Veterans Village in Bishopton, while the Reverend Graham Morrison offered a warm welcome to all those in attendance.

Pupils from Bargarran Primary School delighted the crowd with Christmas classics including White Christmas, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, and Let It Snow.

Alasdair Hutton, the voice of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, then treated the audience to a rendition of A Christmastime Story, and the dedication of the tree was followed by the Lone Piper’s Lament, courtesy of a piper from the Kilbarchan Pipe Band.

The honour of switching on the tree lights then fell to RAF Veteran, 86-year-old Walter Morrison.

Glasgow Times:

Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, Erskine chief executive, said: “Every year the Erskine Tree of Honour events lead us into the festive season. 

“At our dedication services we embrace the opportunity to remember those who will be missing from our lives this Christmas. 

“Although 2021 has been yet another challenging year, we at Erskine have been overwhelmed by the continued generosity, thoughtfulness and kindness from our supporters and the community.

“We would like to thank each and every one, with special thanks to Central Car Auctions for their continued support of our veterans and also to Atalian Servest who once again generously donated a magnificent Christmas tree, now standing proudly at the entrance to The Erskine Home in the Veterans Village.”

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Jonathan Miller, Central Car Auctions Chairman, said: “Central Car Auctions are delighted to support Erskine’s Tree of Honour. It is a special event that celebrates the festive spirit at Erskine. 

“We are pleased to support the charity and in particular an event that is enjoyed by Veterans, families and members of the local community alike.”

A star can be placed on the Virtual Tree of Honour by visiting Erskine’s website.