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Daily Record
28-07-2025
- General
- Daily Record
West Lothian street party plan as military museum marks VJ Day 80th anniversary
West Lothian's military museum has seen an upsurge in visitors and wider support in the month since it was revealed that it will have to relocate from its current home in the grounds of the war-blind veterans estate at Linburn, Wilkieston. A military museum hunting for a new home has unveiled plans to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day with a street party. West Lothian's military museum has seen an upsurge in visitors and wider support in the month since it was revealed that it will have to relocate from its current home in the grounds of the war-blind veterans estate at Linburn, Wilkieston. And museum owner Ian Inglis revealed they hoped to attract more crowds. He said: 'We will be open as normal on the 15 of August, from 10am to 4pm. We will have a special exhibition on the far east campaign including a diorama of Bridge over the River Kwai, made by our resident modeller. Normal entry fees apply to the museum. 'We will also be having a street party between 11am to 4pm, and anyone is welcome to come along, there is no charge for that.' He added that tea, coffee and juice will be supplied but people should bring along food. There is no charge but all donations are welcome. Ian also revealed there would be a talk by best-selling author Mary Monro, who's book Stranger in My Heart tells the remarkable story of her father's escape from the Japanese occupiers of Hong Kong. Ms Monro will be at the museum on the day signing copies of the book. Ian told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: 'Mary Monro wrote about her dad's exploits in WWII. He was captured by the Japanese in Hong Kong and sent to a POW camp. 'He did manage to escape from the camp. It's a fantastic book, there will be a few copies there to purchase that will be signed by the author.' Founded by Ian, who served in the Royal Artillery, largely around his own collection of militaria the museum has become an award winning attraction. The museum has also become a community hub for local veterans and hosts weekly breakfasts and other events to keep ex-servicemen and women connected. The museum is also staffed by ex service volunteers. 'We're not just a museum we're more than that, we' re unique education resource. We we have the veterans hub as well. It would be ideal if we could stay locally, We don't want to move to far away, we'd like to stay within easy access to the bridges.' Such has been the success of the museum the search has been on for a while for a new home in the area. That hunt has gathered new urgency since the charity which owns Linburn - Sight Scotland Veterans - announced their intention to sell the estate for housing development. The museum features indoors and outdoor exhibits of equipment, uniforms, vehicles, and even a First World War trench display. Somewhere nearby for a new home would be ideal as a new home, as Ian pointed out. The museum's growth in popularity draws visitors from across the UK and the world. Earlier this month an American family, rolled up from Edinburgh airport taking time out before checking into their hotel. 'We get a lot of that, and people going to the airport,' he said. 'They have a few hours to kill before their flight so they pop in here.'
Edinburgh Reporter
25-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Reporter
Military museum plans street party to mark VJ day anniversary
A military museum hunting for a new home has unveiled plans to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day with a street party. West Lothian's military museum has seen an upsurge in visitors and wider support in the month since it was revealed that it will have to relocate from its current home in the grounds of the war-blind veterans' estate at Linburn, Wilkieston. And museum owner Ian Inglis revealed they hoped to attract more crowds. He said: 'We will be open as normal on the 15 of August, from 10am to 4pm. We will have a special exhibition on the far east campaign including a diorama of Bridge over the River Kwai, made by our resident modeller. Normal entry fees apply to the museum. 'We will also be having a street party between 11am to 4pm, and anyone is welcome to come along, there is no charge for that.' He added that tea/coffee/ juice will be supplied but people should bring along food. There is no charge, but all donations are welcome. Ian also revealed there would be a talk by best-selling author Mary Monro, who's book Stranger in My Heart tells the remarkable story of her father's escape from the Japanese occupiers of Hong Kong. Ms Monro will be at the museum on the day signing copies of the book. Ian told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: 'Mary Monro wrote about her dad's exploits in WWII. He was captured by the Japanese in Hong Kong and sent to a POW camp. 'He did manage to escape from the camp. It's a fantastic book; there will be a few copies there to purchase that will be signed by the author.' Founded by Ian, who served in the Royal Artillery, largely around his own collection of militaria the museum has become an award-winning attraction. The museum has also become a community hub for local veterans and hosts weekly breakfasts and other events to keep ex-servicemen and women connected. The museum is also staffed by ex-service volunteers. 'We're not just a museum we're more than that, we' re unique education resource. We we have the veterans' hub as well. It would be ideal if we could stay locally, we don't want to move to far away, we'd like to stay within easy access to the bridges.' Such has been the success of the museum the search has been on for a while for a new home in the area. That hunt has gathered new urgency since the charity which owns Linburn – Sight Scotland Veterans – announced their intention to sell the estate for housing development. The museum features indoors and outdoors exhibits of equipment, uniforms, vehicles, and even a First World War trench display. Somewhere nearby for a new home would be ideal as a new home, as Ian pointed out. The museum's growth in popularity draws visitors from across the UK and the world. Earlier this month an American family, rolled up from Edinburgh airport taking time out before checking into their hotel. 'We get a lot of that, and people going to the airport,' he said. 'They have a few hours to kill before their flight, so they pop in here.' By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter Like this: Like Related
Daily Mail
15-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Mail
British Army troops could be deployed to bolster RAF base near Israel as Middle East conflict explodes and Iran threatens UK
Military chiefs could send Army troops to bolster a Royal Air Force base near Israel as tensions in the region escalate. The potential move appears increasing likely tonight as Israel steps up its bombardment of Iran and assassinates two of the country's intelligence chiefs. Iran and its proxy group in the Lebanon, Hezbollah, have threatened to escalate the conflict to include any countries offering support to Israel. And Chancellor Rachel Reeves today opened the door to potential military action in support of Israel. 'We're sending in assets to protect ourselves and also potentially support our allies,' she said. The Typhoon fleet at the UK's RAF Akrotiri on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus, just over 250 miles from Israel, has been bolstered in recent days. Senior officers are considering whether the base and the surrounding airspace require additional protection, particularly if the conflict continues to escalate. In that scenario, military sources suggested troops from Royal Artillery units specialising in air defence would be readied for deployment. 16 Regiment (RA), which includes radar, surveillance and guided weapons specialists, is among those being considered, the Mail understands. The regiment, which is part of the UK's 7 Air Defence Group, is equipped with LEAPP surveillance technology which identifies all friendly and hostile aircraft over a range of 75 miles. It also has 'Giraffe' 360-degree radars which have 'vision' over the same range. Any incoming Iranian or Hezbollah ordnance could be eliminated using Sky Sabre, a surface-to-air defensive weapon system. Sky Sabre can fire up to 24 missiles simultaneously, effective against ballistic missiles and drones. According to the British Army, Sky Sabre could direct missiles to home in on a target as small as a tennis ball travelling at twice the speed of sound. The additional RAF Typhoon aircraft deploying to Cyprus would be used in a defensive capacity, specifically to intercept incoming enemy ordnance. The jets could protect UK assets in the region, including RAF Akrotiri itself, or be part of Israel's panoply of defensive assets. Ms Reeves told Sky News: 'We have, in the past, supported Israel when there have been missiles coming in. I'm not going to comment on what might happen in the future. 'But so far, we haven't been involved... I'm not going to rule anything out at this stage. It's a fast moving situation, a very volatile situation. But we don't want to see escalation.' Since the conflict between Israel and Iran began on Friday, there has been no indication from Jerusalem that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to include the UK in any coalition against Iran. Relations between the UK and Israel have soured in recent months after Britain joined the likes of France, Canada and Australia in condemning the country's continuing siege of Gaza. While Israel informed the United States ahead of its strikes on Iran on Friday, and countries such as Germany, the UK did not receive prior warning. Any sustained RAF campaign in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean could have a knock-on effect on the itinerary of the UK's Carrier Strike Group, including the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales. The CSG requires support from RAF Voyager refuelling aircraft. These are essential for extending the range of the F-35B fighter jets operating from the carrier. Should the Voyagers be required to support RAF missions in support of Israel, or to protect UK assets in the region, this would compromise the CSG, which in recent days has been exercising with the Indian Navy as part of Operation Highmast. Iran has fired more than 200 ballistic missiles towards Israel since Friday. Many have penetrated the country's renowned Iron Dome defensive shield (pictured intercepting missiles fired from Iran over Tel Aviv, Israel, today) Iran has fired more than 200 ballistic missiles towards Israel since Friday. Many have penetrated the country's renowned Iron Dome defensive shield. This has led to at least 13 civilian deaths. So, Israel may be required to call on allies to protect its citizens. According to military sources, the United States is likely to plug these gaps.
Irish Independent
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Northern Ireland's oldest man (106) receives honour from King Charles and shares secret to long life
70 people from the north of Ireland have been recognised, including community champions and those involved in sport, arts, health, economy and policing. They join names such as David Beckham and The Who singer Roger Daltrey, who are knighted, and Strictly Come Dancing stars Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who are made MBEs. One of the most notable local recipients is Coleraine pensioner Norman Irwin, who at 106 is Northern Ireland's oldest man. The Derry man has been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the community in his local town. Mr Irwin, who was born in 1918 and has lived in Coleraine all his life apart from six-and-a-half years during the Second World War, said he was honoured by the gong. He added that it had come as a big surprise, joking he was 'getting on a bit'. Born a few days after the end of the First World War, Mr Irwin joined the Coleraine Battery of the Royal Artillery in 1939 and served in North Africa before becoming one of the founding members of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) in 1942, rising to the rank of sergeant. He became known for his initiative in the field — when tools were unavailable he made his own and 'got on with the job without fuss'. After the war he helped found several community organisations including the Coleraine Winemakers Club and the Coleraine Probus Club, a cross-community group for retirees. He also helped start the Agivey Anglers Association. Asked for his secret to a long life, the great-grandfather of four replied: 'A glass of Bushmills every day'. His family explained that he found out about the award via a letter from the Cabinet Office. They described him as a 'brilliant role model' with 'a quick wit and great sense of humour'. The honour also marks a special connection, as King Charles is the fifth monarch in Mr Irwin's lifetime. Road racing legend Michael Dunlop is also to receive an honour in the form of an MBE. Part of the famous Dunlop motorcycling dynasty, Michael has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the sport. With a record-breaking 33 victories at the Isle of Man TT, he is the most successful rider in the event's history. Since beginning his professional career in 2006 he has consistently pushed the boundaries of speed and endurance, famously becoming the first to lap the TT's Mountain Course in under 17 minutes. With over 120 national road race wins, he was named Motorcycle News Rider of the Year in 2023 and crowned King of the Roads at the 2024 Irish Motorbike Awards. Astrophysicist Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell (81) from Lurgan, Co Armagh, who as a doctoral student discovered the first radio pulsars in 1967, is to be made a Companion of Honour. Other local names on the list include Elizabeth Norah McGrath (61) from Co Down, who will receive a BEM for services to suicide prevention. Described as a 'professional and committed healthcare worker', Ms McGrath has long held a passion for improving mental health services. She spearheaded the launch of the Suicide Prevention Care Pathway to quickly respond to patients at risk, co-produced with service users and volunteers with lived experience. Also honoured is Christine Smith KC from Co Down, chairwoman of the Urology Services Inquiry, who is being made a CBE. Ms Smith said she was 'deeply honoured'. 'I feel privileged to be the recipient as the first woman to chair a public inquiry in Northern Ireland. 'I see it as a recognition of the incredible mentors and champions I have had throughout my career, and I am most grateful for their support. 'I also see it as a reflection of the collective effort of my team on the Urology Services Inquiry and those I have been lucky to work with on previous inquiries, including the Independent Neurology Inquiry, the Renewable Heat Incentive Inquiry, and in particular the inquiry into Historical Institutional Abuse.' Singer and choir leader Maria Stephenson Lacey (68) from Belfast will be awarded an MBE for her services to the arts. The founder of the multicultural Belfast Community Gospel Choir in 2009, she has grown the group into a 100-strong ensemble that performs here and internationally, sharing a message of joy and inclusion. Meanwhile, Richard Taylor, governor of Hydebank Wood Secure College and Women's Prison, is being made an OBE for public service. Mr Taylor credited the whole team of staff for being part of a 10-year process of turning the south Belfast facility around, following a critical inspection report in 2013, to being described as a 'model of excellence'. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer shared his congratulations with everyone on the list. In a statement he said: 'This year's Birthday Honours List is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and service that exists in every corner of our country.
Irish Independent
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
‘A glass of Bushmills a day' – 106-year-old Derry man receives honour from Britain's King Charles and shares secret to long life
70 people from the north of Ireland have been recognised, including community champions and those involved in sport, arts, health, economy and policing. They join names such as David Beckham and The Who singer Roger Daltrey, who are knighted, and Strictly Come Dancing stars Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who are made MBEs. One of the most notable local recipients is Coleraine pensioner Norman Irwin, who at 106 is Northern Ireland's oldest man. The Derry man has been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the community in his local town. Mr Irwin, who was born in 1918 and has lived in Coleraine all his life apart from six-and-a-half years during the Second World War, said he was honoured by the gong. He added that it had come as a big surprise, joking he was 'getting on a bit'. Born a few days after the end of the First World War, Mr Irwin joined the Coleraine Battery of the Royal Artillery in 1939 and served in North Africa before becoming one of the founding members of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) in 1942, rising to the rank of sergeant. He became known for his initiative in the field — when tools were unavailable he made his own and 'got on with the job without fuss'. After the war he helped found several community organisations including the Coleraine Winemakers Club and the Coleraine Probus Club, a cross-community group for retirees. He also helped start the Agivey Anglers Association. Asked for his secret to a long life, the great-grandfather of four replied: 'A glass of Bushmills every day'. His family explained that he found out about the award via a letter from the Cabinet Office. They described him as a 'brilliant role model' with 'a quick wit and great sense of humour'. The honour also marks a special connection, as King Charles is the fifth monarch in Mr Irwin's lifetime. Road racing legend Michael Dunlop is also to receive an honour in the form of an MBE. Part of the famous Dunlop motorcycling dynasty, Michael has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the sport. With a record-breaking 33 victories at the Isle of Man TT, he is the most successful rider in the event's history. Since beginning his professional career in 2006 he has consistently pushed the boundaries of speed and endurance, famously becoming the first to lap the TT's Mountain Course in under 17 minutes. With over 120 national road race wins, he was named Motorcycle News Rider of the Year in 2023 and crowned King of the Roads at the 2024 Irish Motorbike Awards. Astrophysicist Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell (81) from Lurgan, Co Armagh, who as a doctoral student discovered the first radio pulsars in 1967, is to be made a Companion of Honour. Other local names on the list include Elizabeth Norah McGrath (61) from Co Down, who will receive a BEM for services to suicide prevention. Described as a 'professional and committed healthcare worker', Ms McGrath has long held a passion for improving mental health services. She spearheaded the launch of the Suicide Prevention Care Pathway to quickly respond to patients at risk, co-produced with service users and volunteers with lived experience. Also honoured is Christine Smith KC from Co Down, chairwoman of the Urology Services Inquiry, who is being made a CBE. Ms Smith said she was 'deeply honoured'. 'I feel privileged to be the recipient as the first woman to chair a public inquiry in Northern Ireland. 'I see it as a recognition of the incredible mentors and champions I have had throughout my career, and I am most grateful for their support. 'I also see it as a reflection of the collective effort of my team on the Urology Services Inquiry and those I have been lucky to work with on previous inquiries, including the Independent Neurology Inquiry, the Renewable Heat Incentive Inquiry, and in particular the inquiry into Historical Institutional Abuse.' Singer and choir leader Maria Stephenson Lacey (68) from Belfast will be awarded an MBE for her services to the arts. The founder of the multicultural Belfast Community Gospel Choir in 2009, she has grown the group into a 100-strong ensemble that performs here and internationally, sharing a message of joy and inclusion. Meanwhile, Richard Taylor, governor of Hydebank Wood Secure College and Women's Prison, is being made an OBE for public service. Mr Taylor credited the whole team of staff for being part of a 10-year process of turning the south Belfast facility around, following a critical inspection report in 2013, to being described as a 'model of excellence'. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer shared his congratulations with everyone on the list. In a statement he said: 'This year's Birthday Honours List is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and service that exists in every corner of our country.
