COMMUNITY groups and organisations across North Ayrshire are being given a helping hand to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One.

North Ayrshire Council’s Legacy Fund is supporting communities and organisations which are preparing to hold events or deliver activities that mark this significant event in history. And, at a special event held in Irvine’s Townhouse on Tuesday, September 18, Provost Ian Clarkson welcomed representatives from the groups which have been given funding to help them achieve their aims.

A total of 12 organisations have received funding ranging from £200 to £1,500 as preparations are made to commemorate exactly 100 years since the end of the First World War.

Among the organisations to receive funding are: Barrmill Jolly Beggars Burns Club, which is receiving £1,500 to help lay on a concert of music and songs to mark the era of the First World War, featuring a brass band, two choirs and young people reciting poetry.

Beith Community Council is receiving £500 towards its event which will form part of “Battles O’er” – a UK wide commemoration of the war, including the lighting of a commemorative beacon.

Beith Cultural and Heritage Society is receiving £1,500 to help the group complete its research on First World War servicemen and women, as well as a special project to pay tribute to each of those soldiers who lost their lives.

Garnock Valley Men’s Shed is receiving £200 towards its project which will see members of the group build small replica WW1 aircraft which will go on display in the local library.

The Three Towns Growers will receive £1,500 to help create a memorial garden, featuring flowers associated with war time and discussions on the roles of allotments during the war.

West Kilbride Community Association is receiving £1,500 towards the creation and installation of a piece of art which will be placed in the gardens at the village’s community centre, where it will become a centre-point for reflection, particularly for those unable to get to the village war memorial.

Provost Clarkson, who is also North Ayrshire’s Veterans’ Champion, said: “As we approach the 100th anniversary of what was thought to be the war to end all wars, we reflect and remember those who took part in one of the most significant events in human history.

“The groups who have stepped forward to apply for legacy funding are a real inspiration. There is an amazing range of different projects from each of the groups.

“I am looking forward to attending as many of the events as possible.”