SERVICEMEN and women will “not be forgotten” despite the cancellation of Remembrance Day parades this year in West Fife. 

Alternative plans for marking the day are being organised by Fife Council and the local Royal British Legion (RBS) including an online service. 

Convener of the City of Dunfermline area committee, Councillor Helen Law, explained that wreaths will still be laid to honour those who have served their country but it would have to be done in a different way to normal to observe the rules around social gatherings. 

She told the Press: “It’s really, really sad that we cannot have our normal parades that attract hundreds of spectators and participants. 

“It’s always a very moving day but the public can be assured that the day will not go unmarked and people will not be forgotten. 

“We are hoping to get the poppies out that were used to mark VE Day that decorated Sinclair roundabout and the surrounding railings and trees around the footpaths. 

“Certainly not in my memory can I recall remembrance parades being cancelled but people keep saying these are unprecedented times and it is the truth. 

“It’s important that we still mark the occasion and I am sure everyone will do their best to make sure people are honoured.”

The Dunfermline branch of the Royal British Legion confirmed that a dozen dignitaries would lay a wreath as part of a short five-minute service. 

Douglas Latta, branch secretary, said the legion has been told that no parades were allowed under current government guidelines. 

Cllr Rod Cavanagh, Fife Council’s armed forces champion, urged Fifers to stay at home to watch services. 

“We cannot hold the usual large events at memorials and have parades and bands; this does not mean, however, that we cannot mark the occasion in some way,” he said. “This year, we need to remember in different ways. 

“I do believe there may be some very small services taking place at memorials around Fife for wreaths to be laid, however, I would encourage you not to attend these; rather stay at home, watch the services on TV and online and at 11am, stand on your doorstep along with your neighbours and observe the two-minute silence. 

“Some of you may also wish to do this on November 11 at 11am.”

There will still be a service on television from the Cenotaph in London to view and Fife Council will be streaming a service online on YouTube for the public to watch.