An overcast day welcomed the crowd who gathered at the church gates in Falkirk but the weather was a relief after last year’s downpour and the previous week’s rainfall. Even the sun smiled on us from time to time.

Renovation to the church prevented us having the short service and wreath laying at the Men of Bute monument and the De Grahame tomb in the church grounds. A weel-kent crowd then made their way down to the cairn with many bystanders watching on.

At the cairn the standard was raised by Eddie O’Neill (faither) and the service was led by Ken Shirra who paid tribute to the many men who gave their lives at the Battle of Falkirk in 1298. Speeches were given by Malcolm O’Neill, SNP Cllr David Alexander and George Boyle. Gordon Aitken also paid tribute to David Ross and sang a song called “Scotland Crazy” which he wrote about David’s Walk for Wallace.  This was deservedly appreciated.

Wreaths were then lain by The Wallace Society, Siol-nan-Gaidheal, The Men of Bute, The Camelon Local History Group and the Knights Templer.

After the closing benediction people either made there way home or onto the Calledon Hotel nearby.

Later in the evening some went along to The Camelon Bowling Club where entertainment was provided by Joy Dunlop and Fiery Jack

By Kate Smith