A POIGNANT rededication ceremony honouring the fallen and war wounded was conducted in Dunfermline on Tuesday.

Earlier this month, the Press reported how Dunfermline raised £20,171 – the equivalent of £500,000 today – for the "Welcome Home" fund for disabled veterans returning home after the Second World War.

The cash helped build 11 cottages in Cherrybank, off Halbeath Road, for injured ex-servicemen, with a commemoration cairn installed near the homes.

Part of the fund also went towards a Garden of Honour at the former Bee Alley Gardens, now home to memorials dedicated to those who died in the Second World War and subsequent conflicts.

To mark 65 years since the houses were built, the Scottish Veterans’ Garden City Association (SVGCA) – which celebrates its centenary this year – organised the special service at Cherrybank.

Led by the Reverend MaryAnn Rennie of Dunfermline Abbey, the event was attended by Provost Jim Leishman, tenants, their families and local dignitaries.

They came to celebrate the replanting of a cherry tree and refurbishment of the original cairn and plaques. A commemorative wreath was also laid at the cairn.

Archie Watson, SVGCA Dunfermline vice-chair, thanked the Press for featuring the initial story.

He said, “I’m sure it jogged some people’s memories – a lot of people didn’t realise the history of this part of town until the story appeared.

“Fife Council awarded grant funding of about £3000 for the work.

“Most of us until we joined the committee didn’t know the history of these houses.

“In a very short space of time, Dunfermline raised the equivalent of £500,000 for this cause during a time when things were not good economically.

“The people of Dunfermline should rightly be proud of that part of town and that part of their history.”

The opening ceremony was held on October 20 1950 and attended by, among others, Provost Stewart Gellatly and Lord and Lady Rosebery.

Provost Leishman said, “I am delighted to be here and to follow in the footsteps of Provost Gellatly, my distinguished predecessor 65 years ago.

“Fife has a long and honourable connection with the armed forces and is committed to providing them with the support and recognition they deserve.”