AN urgent call has been made for the Largs War Memorial to be refurbished for its 100th anniversary.


A former North Ayrshire Citizen of the Year award winner says the 29ft tall seafront monument must be attended to as parts of it are crumbling and this month marks the centenary of its unveiling.
The landmark pays respects to heroes of both First and Second World Wars, but Jim Lamont, an ex Largs Boys' Brigade captain of 30 years standing, believes a major restoration effort is needed.
Jim, of Glenacre Drive, said: "I am very concerned by the state of the memorial.
"The figures in the top are getting eroded and one of them has a rifle but half of its is missing.
"Surely there must be funds somewhere to update it given it is the anniversary year?"
Jim and wife Bridie retired two years ago after running the local BB company.
They were named joint winners of the citizen of the year prize for their long service to the youth organisation.
Jim says he believe the local authority has a duty to step in and ensure the war memorial is preserved.
He said: "It was especially erected by public subscription in 1921 - a lot of folk probably didn't have the money back then and still helped.
"Because of its positioning near the shore, it is always going to be at risk of the elements.
"You certainly know all about it in November at Armistice when it's blowing a gale and raining.
"We don't want it to erode any further and be in danger of falling apart.
"It is an important area of the town where people go to pay their respects to the fallen.
"This year represents a significant milestone so if anything it is even more important - it is time for the councillors to get involved."
The memorial was unveiled on September 19 in 1921.
It was carved from white freestone by William Kellock Brown.
It stands on the esplanade near Sandringham and the dedication ceremony was attended by over 200 service personnel and ex-servicemen within a 5,000 strong crowd.
The statue is dominated by three figures, a Scottish soldier, a sailor and a fighter representing the Dominions of the Empire.
Labour councillor Alex Gallagher today responded to Mr Lamont's concerns.
He said: "The war memorial is very important to the town and it is crucial that we remember the two great wars for many reasons, including the great sacrifices of our soldiers and the lessons which can be learned.
If Jim is saying it needs upgrading I will take that up with the relevant directorships of the council and personally ensure it will get done.
"Up until now I thought it had been bearing up quite well but if it needs refurbished there is a team with funds available that can look at that and I will ensure that they get knowledge of the situation."