As with many of our regular activities during the pandemic, the Best Kept War Memorial campaign was put on pause last year. Now it’s back and the winners have been announced for 2021.

Congratulations to Carnoustie, who won the Champion of Champions award.

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh Frank Ross presented the award in a ceremony at Edinburgh City Chambers.

 

The other winners are:

Large Community With Gardens – Forres

Small Memorial With Gardens – Golspie 

Memorial Without Gardens – Dingwall 

Small Memorial With Gardens – Greystone Carmyllie

Small Memorial Without Gardens – Dallas 

New Entry – Kirriemuir

Bill Tait, chair of the judging panel, passed on his warmest congratulations to this year’s winners.

 “War memorials are such an important part of the fabric of communities across Scotland. Nearly every city, town and village has a memorial and it remains a vital and highly visible means of remembering the sacrifices made by so many in defence of our country, from the First World War to more recent conflicts,” he said.

“Recognising the huge efforts to maintain these sacred sites through the Legion Scotland Best Kept War Memorial competition is so important, and it is a great honour to be chair of the judging panel.

“The judges were looking for war memorials to be in prime condition; clean, the masonry well maintained, lettering clear and legible and any metalwork well preserved. Access paths and seating are also important factors.

“On the horticultural side, the flora displays are scrutinised for their condition and should be free of weeds. Lawns and hedges should also be in pristine condition. Use of the Legion’s colours of blue and gold gain extra points.”

Area judging took place from May to July with the national judging panel then looking at the winners for each area.

Memorials are an important way for communities to honour those who have served our country. Our annual Best Kept War Memorial campaign shines a spotlight on monuments around Scotland.