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Preparations are being drawn up for a series of events for the Iolaire Centenary Commemoration in the Western Isles.

201 island sailors, returning from the First World War, lost their lives in the early hours of the first of January 1919 when the Iolaire sank after running aground on the rocks off Holm on the approach to Stornoway harbour.

The tragedy remains the worst maritime disaster during peacetime in the UK.

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has agreed to host a community event on the evening of 31st December 2018 and a formal civic event on the 1st January 2019.

In addition, there will be participation by schools throughout the Islands and many other community orientated events.

The centenary commemoration events are being overseen by the Iolaire Working Party comprised of representatives of the Comhairle, Comuinn Eachraidh, Sandwick Community Council, Stornoway Historical Society and Museum nan Eilean.

The council is also liaising with the Royal Navy and Scottish Commemorations Panel.

A new Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnIolaire has been launched which will provide updates over the coming months on the events being planned.

A Community Remembers, the community event to be held on 31st December 2018, is at an early stage but plans include a lecture, military and school band performances, poetry readings and songs, drama and a spiritual element.

If the weather is favourable, there are plans for a vigil at the memorial at Holm in the early hours of 1st January 2019, with a short service and laying of wreaths timed to coincide with events on the night of the first of January 1919.

A service during the day of 1st January 2019 is also being planned.

A planning application has been submitted to improve the path leading to the Iolaire memorial at Holm.

Council convenor Norman A MacDonald - who is also chairman of the Iolaire Working Group - said: "This commemoration is of major significance for our islands.

“The events of that terrible night in January 1919 impacted on communities throughout the Western Isles and remain a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our young men in the service of their country.

“It is the worst tragedy to befall our islands and its effect reverberates to this day."

Mr MacDonald added: “The comhairle would wish to record our gratitude to the Scott family for their continuing support in relation to the improvement of the path leading down to the memorial."

It is anticipated that a public meeting will be held early in the New Year to discuss progress being made with these plans.

Preparations to commemorate 100 years since Iolaire disaster

14 Nov 2017