A SECOND memorial bench has been unveiled in Galashiels to honour those from the town who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

A large crowd gathered at the fountain in Cornmill Square recently for the official handover.

The metal bench was donated by the Royal British Legion Scotland Riders’ Branch and RBLS Women’s Section Galashiels Branch.

Last October a similar one was placed at the fountain ahead of the centenary commemoriations of the end of the Great War.

It was installed to honour the 639 servicemen who never came home, as well as the brave sons of the town who did return.

Jane Doogan, from the RBLS Women’s Section Galashiels branch, said: “This bench has been donated by the Women’s Section and the Riders’ Branch. It will give people a place to reflect and remember those who served in our armed forces – the Army, Navy and RAF – as well as others such as nurses who lost their lives.”

Among the crowd in Cornmill Square, were local councillors Euan Jardine and Harry Scott.

Following the unveiling, Councillor Jardine told us: “It was great to be there for the official opening of the bench on Saturday.

“It looks fantastic and I am really grateful as I am sure are the people of Galashiels, for the efforts of those involved in making this happen.”