More than 150 people attend Legion Scotland conference

Dumfries made history when it hosted Legion Scotland’s annual conference at The Bridge from last week.

It was the first time in 20 years the gathering for Scotland’s largest Armed Forces membership charity had not been held in Perth.

More than 150 members, trustees, military personnel, and staff met over the days to discuss comradeship for Scotland’s veterans community.

Legion Scotland also welcomed guests from partner charities, such as Poppyscotland, the Royal British Legion, the Royal British Legion Scotland Women’s Section, and the Royal Canadian Legion.

CEO of Legion Scotland, Dr Claire Armstrong OBE, said: “Annual conferences are a favourite permanent feature of our members’ calendars. They provide an opportunity for members to share their views on the direction of the charity, as well as providing multiple opportunities to enjoy the benefits of comradeship with other members.

“I would like to thank Dumfries and Galloway Council for their support in providing us a venue, and for their engagement with us throughout the year. I must also thank our guest speakers for the insight that they brought.”

Speakers included Dumfriesshire Lord Lieutenant Fiona Armstrong; Dumfries Provost Councillor Maureen Johnstone; Scottish Veterans Commissioner, Lt Cdr (ret’d) and Susie Hamilton.

Legion Scotland president, Rear Admiral Mark Beverstock and Legion Scotland chairman, Lt Cdr Martyn Hawthorn MBE also contributed.

In addition, an officer from 6 SCOTS provided an update on the Armed Forces in Scotland.

Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE, said it was “a privilege” to host the conference in the region.

He said: “For Dumfries to be the first town outside of Perth to host the Legion Scotland Annual Conference is an honour in itself and demonstrated the positive profile and excellent facilities of this part of the country.

“Our council was extremely supportive of this happening.

“We welcomed this opportunity to show our pride, gratitude and respect to all legionnaires while they were in Dumfries and Galloway over the period of the conference.”