Brechin Civic Trust has kept a long-standing promise with a magnificent five-figure donation to another important town group.
The presentation of £10,000 is a major step towards the Watson-Watt Society of Brechin’s campaign to erect a permanent memorial to radar inventor Sir Robert Watson-Watt.
And the gesture takes the group of enthusiasts close to their ambition of creating the cathedral city’s first statue honouring a local son.
Handing over the cheque, Civic Trust treasurer Gordon Watson said: ”This honours a pledge we made some years ago to donate to this project.
”We believe that such a memorial is long overdue and we need to recognise the great efforts of Watson-Watt and his team in developing the radar system so crucially important to the defence of this country during the Second World War.
”We also feel that the proposed statue the first in Brechin will be another attraction in the town.”
The donation is the biggest contribution received by the society so far and Watson-Watt Society treasurer Mike Holland praised the efforts of local groups and individuals who have helped raise funds.
”This follows on from a recent donation from Robert and Jenny Martin, who had held a very successful bridge event in support of the society,” said Mr Holland.
”There have also been contributions from numerous individuals.”
He added: ”Although considerable progress had been made, money is still required and we hope the strong support of the last year will continue, since every single pound counts.”
The latest boosts have, however, taken the society to the point where renowned sculptor Alan Herriot can complete the clay model of the statue and the foundry can construct the mould.
”The next stage would be the casting in bronze of the figure of Sir Robert Watson-Watt,” added Mr Holland.
An exact miniature of the statue, which will be sited in St Ninian’s Square, is on display in Brechin Town House Museum.
Anyone seeking more information or who would like to make a contribution can contact Mike Holland on 01356 624053 or society secretary Brian Mitchell on 01356 624356.