The public have been asked to lend a helping hand to support the additional repair costs for a First World War memorial arch in a north-east cemetery.
The Friends of Turriff Cemetery has urged the public to donate what they can to help with the additional renovation costs to restore the First World War memorial arch.
The group has been fundraising to restore the First and Second World War memorials and the repair work is currently underway. However, on closer inspection, it was discovered by the contractors that more work needs done than originally envisaged.
Fraser Watson, chairman of Friends of Turriff Cemetery, said: “The scaffolding is up and the contractors realised there were quite a number of defective stones, some need replaced and others are damaged. These will need to be replaced as soon as possible.”
Work has been completed on the Second World War memorial and Mr Watson is pleased with the remedial work.
He said: “The plaque has been cleaned and it looks great. We’ve agreed the work for the World War One memorial arch is necessary, so that it doesn’t deteriorate further.”
“However, we can’t afford this by ourselves and we’d appreciate anyone who is able to make a donation to help with this.”
The group raised £8,200 in partnership with the Royal British Legion in Turriff to cover the renovation costs, but this will not be enough to cover the additional work.
The organisation needs to raise another £5,000 to ensure that the memorial is restored to its former glory.
Mr Watson said: “We should never forget the sacrifice which was made by these men and the memorial should be kept to the highest possible standard in order to show them the honour they truly deserve.”
Donations to help with the additional repair costs for the First World War memorial arch at Turriff Cemetery can be made to
paypal.me/FoTCWW1
