Veterans mark wartime anniversary

Prince Philip laid a wreath at the Burma Star event in Aberdeen

World War II veterans in Scotland have taken part in events marking the 60th anniversary of the end of the conflict.

The Duke of Edinburgh joined hundreds of war veterans for a service of remembrance at St Margaret's Episcopal Church in Aberdeen.

Members of the Burma Star Association from across Scotland marked the 60th anniversary of victory over Japan.

Veterans also gathered in Motherwell to remember those who fought and died in the European and Pacific theatres.

Prince Philip, who is patron of the Burma Star Association, laid a wreath at the church war memorial during the service.

The prince served with the British Pacific Fleet and witnessed the final surrender of the Japanese in Tokyo Bay on 2 September, 1945.

Veterans and guests later gathered at a reception at Aberdeen's Beach Ballroom.

About 300 people attended the 50-minute church service.

It has been uplifting to see so many of the veterans and their wives, widows and friends here today Bert Anderson Burma Star Association

Addressing the congregation, the Reverend John Grimson, Padre of the Burma Star Association, said: "It was all a very long time ago but it was the end of a period in our lives which we have never forgotten and never will.

"We rid the Far East of a particularly cruel aggressor and made it possible for many people in many countries to make a new start."

Rev Grimson told veterans: "Forgiveness is a necessity in this world of ours because without forgiveness there can be no reconciliation and truth."

After a two-minute silence, Prince Philip laid the Burma Star Wreath, which carried the words: "In memory of all who served and died at sea, on land and in the air during the entire Burma Campaign so that together we might live in peace and enjoy everlasting friendship. We will never forget them."

Bert Anderson, honorary secretary of the Aberdeen and district branch of the Burma Star Association, said: "It has been uplifting to see so many of the veterans and their wives, widows and friends here today.

Veterans and other guests gathered afterwards at the Beach Ballroom

"They have come from various areas in Scotland and it has been a great turnout for the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War."

The event at Motherwell Concert Hall included performances by school bands and was attended by local dignitaries.

The Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, Gilbert Cox, said for many veterans it could be their last major opportunity to get together.

The ceremony was led by Bishop of Motherwell, Joseph Devine, the Reverend John Thomson and Queen's Chaplain, the Reverend Jim Gibson.

It was also attended by North Lanarkshire Council Provost Pat Connelly and Mushtaq Ahmad, Provost of South Lanarkshire Council.

Mr Cox described the event as a special opportunity to honour "all veterans" and pay respects to all those who lost their lives.

In London, Prince Charles and government ministers laid wreaths at the Cenotaph and attended a service to remember those who died.

The events formed part of the final national commemoration of VJ Day and the end of the war.