VETERANS in Girvan and South Carrick are furious after complaints were made about the flag raised at Stumpy Tower for Armed Forces Day.

There had been complaints made about the flag by some residents who felt there was political motivation behind the event.

But this has been condemned by organisers of Armed Forces Day who have confirmed the event will be held next year on a different date.

Roddy Macdonald, Girvan Town Team coordinator, said: “We were approached three years ago by Robert Sweeney who asked why there was not an Armed Forces Day celebration in Girvan.

We have now received funding for a permanent flag. There have been negative views from a couple of individuals but this event will be held again. But we need to find the best date to run.”

Cllr Peter Henderson said: “The flag flew for the week [it was supposed to] before it was taken down.”

Roddy continued: “This is not a political event. In my experience there has not been a problem. This is an unfortunate incident and it will not deter us from running Armed Forces Day again.”

Cllr Henderson added: “There was confusion because Ayr changed its Armed Forces Day to the week before.”

It is hoped next year’s event will see younger uniformed generations take part in the procedure to pay respect to those who have fought in past and present conflicts.

Robert Sweeney, a Girvan veteran is proud to attend Armed Forces Day to commemorate those who have fought in conflicts past and present.

Mr Sweeney said: “I am very proud to be part of Armed Forces Day. 
“I am a very proud Scotsman and ex serviceman. I wanted there to be a celebration in Girvan and asked to create one four years ago. 

“At the time I spoke to Councillor Alec Clark, who backed the proposal. 

“The flag was lifted to show respect for the Englishmen, Irishmen and Scotsmen who have fought for our country in all the wars to give people their freedom. 

“That is the purpose of Girvan Armed Forces Day which is for anyone. There are a lot of people who are angry about the way the town has been treated.”