TRIBUTES were paid to World War II hero Air Chief Marshal Lord Hugh Dowding at a scaled down event in Moffat at the weekend.
The usual full ceremony didn’t take place after it was cancelled due to ‘unprecedented organisational and support issues’.
Instead, a small wreath laying ceremony was held at the Dowding Memorial in Station Park on Sunday.
This year marked the 83rd anniversary of the successful defence of the skies over Britain.
Air Chief Marshal Hugh Dowding, who was born in Moffat, was an air officer commanding RAF Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain and is generally credited with playing a crucial role in Britain’s defence, and hence, the defeat of Adolf Hitler’s plan to invade Britain.
In attendance at the weekend was Deputy Lord Lieutenant Lady Eileen Duncan, representing the new King Charles III. Representatives from Dumfries and Galloway Council were also in attendance, including veterans champion Councillor Archie Dryburgh and Annandale North Councillor Carolyne Wilson. Wreaths were also laid by Dr Hamish Macleod for the Dowding family; Air Commodore Bryan Collins for Battle of Britain Fighter Association; Patricia Brown for the Women’s Auxiliary Airforce and the late Irene Park MBE; Royal British Legion Scotland Moffat Branch president Clive Brown; Liam O’Neill for Moffat and District Community Council; and John Hilsea of the Dumfries Aviation Museum.
Commemorations for Lord Hugh Dowding continue this Sunday as a Spitfire flypast is scheduled for 1.20 pm, weather permitting.
