The A-listed building in the town’s Cadzow Street has been bathed in colour since the beginning of the month in support of Poppy Scotland’s 'light up red' campaign, marking 100 years of the poppy as the nation symbol of remembrance. 

The building will remain red until the remembrance ceremonies conclude this weekend.

South Lanarkshire Council’s Veterans Champion, Councillor Mark Horsham, and Provost Ian McAllan will each attend events across the area throughout this week.

Both are delighted that the council is able to honour the fallen in a variety of ways, particularly after the planned events in 2020 had to be put on hold as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Said Councillor Horsham: “The last year has again been a difficult one, and the return of our in-person remembrance events signifies some light at the end of a very long tunnel.  

“However, even in 2020 we were able to show our support for those who gave their lives in conflict, by lighting up one of our best-known and most significant buildings in red, and it’s a tradition, in support of such a worthwhile campaign, that I’m happy to see continue this year, and into the future.” 

Provost McAllan added: “We must never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice to allow us the freedoms we enjoy today, and the ways in which we do that have had to evolve in the past couple of years. 

“Seeing such an historic and significant building lit up in red fills me with pride and sends a message to our communities that this week, this month and always, we will remember them.” 

Residents across South Lanarkshire are also being asked to observe the two-minute silence for Remembrance Day tomorrow (Thursday 11 November). Council buildings will also fall silent at that time. 

Added Provost McAllan: "At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we are asked to quietly reflect on those who lost their lives serving their country in conflicts across the world. 

“The events of the last 18 months or so have created even more cause for reflection, and for gratitude for what we have today. 

“Please take the time, whether you are at work, home, school or anywhere for that matter, to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by those brave men and women who gave everything for us."