HUNDREDS OF members of the Royal British Legion Scotland marched through Perth yesterday morning before paying tribute to servicemen who lost their lives in defence of their country.

The representatives made their way from the North Inch to the war memorial where the Lord Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross, Brigadier Mel Jameson, took the salute.

The Royal British Legion Scotland is holding its 87th annual conference at Perth Concert Hall yesterday and today. The 300 Legion members represent the 50,000 members from the 198 branches of the RBLS.

The welcome to the conference was made by Legion President, Lt General Sir Alistair Irwin and Provost John Hulbert. The address was given by Wing Commander Bob Lander, RAF Leuchars.

Other speakers included John Farmer, vice- chairman, The Royal British Legion, and Major Jim Panton, chief executive of Poppyscotland.

“We are delighted to be back in Perth for the sixth time in a row,” General Irwin said.

“We have always received a warm welcome here. Our annual conference provides an opportunity to discuss the problems facing the ex-service community, as well as to meet old friends. This year will be no different. As for the Legion’s future, important decisions must be made.”

Mr Hulbert said, “This conference is taking place 90 years after the end of the first world war so it is an occasion when we should pause and be humble and reflect on the sacrifice and the heroism of that terrible conflict.

“You have been holding your annual conference in Perth now for several years, and we wish to extend a hand of friendship and respect to all of you, recognising who you are and what you stand for.

“Last year when I addressed your conference, I was a very new provost. I had been in post for less than two weeks and your conference was the first at which I spoke. I remember emphasising how important the link between Perth and the RBLS was and how much we in the council, and indeed in Perth generally, valued that link.

“A year into my term of office, and I realise that if anything that was an understatement.

“Perth has deep connections with all levels of the armed forces but it is the army in particular, and especially The Black Watch that predominates.

“Throughout the last year I have met cadets, the TA, regular soldiers and veterans. I have also attended ceremonial occasions with the RAF, and the RAFA, and the Royal Navy.

“Perth’s relationship with the RBLS, however is quite special and on a different plane. It rises above all connections with individual services and was cemented forever at the Freedom of Perth ceremony in 2004—a moving occasion for everyone who took part.”

The RBLS was created by Earl Haig in 1921.