Angus has dominated the national competition to find Scotland’s best kept war memorials in the centenary year of Legion Scotland.
Local cenotaphs scooped three of the seven awards in the annual contest.
And the Champion of Champions accolade has once again ‘come home’ to Carnoustie.
Kirriemuir and Carmyllie also made it onto the honours list.
Spectacular flower beds with the RBLS 100 message laid out at each side of the Dundee Street memorial helped Carnoustie regain the title it previously held in 2015 and 2019.
Davie Paton, Legion Scotland national vice-chairman and chairman of Carnoustie Legion said: “Of course, being completely biased, I am over the moon that Carnoustie has – once again – won the best kept war memorial in Scotland.
“There were over 60 entries this year and the three independent judges travelled the length and breadth of Scotland to see them.
“Carnoustie coming top in Legion Scotland’s centenary year is tribute to the hard work of the Legion volunteers under Kirsty MacDonald’s leadership.
“It is also testament to the tremendous support we get from the team of Angus Council gardeners.
“What makes this important year so special for Angus is the success of other war memorials in the area.
“Carmyllie is also looked after by volunteers from Carnoustie Legion and was awarded the best satellite war memorial prize.
“And Kirriemuir memorial won the best new entry category”.
Community fabric
Judging panel chairman Bill Tait of Edinburgh Botanic Gardens said: “War memorials are such an important part of the fabric of communities across Scotland.
“Nearly every city, town and village has a memorial and it remains a vital and highly visible means of remembering the sacrifices made by so many in defence of our country, from the First World War to more recent conflicts.
“Recognising the huge efforts to maintain these sacred sites through the Legion Scotland competition is so important.
“The judges were looking for war memorials to be in prime condition; clean, the masonry well maintained, lettering clear and legible and any metalwork well preserved. Access paths and seating are also important factors.
“On the horticultural side, flora displays are scrutinised for their condition and should be free of weeds. Lawns and hedges should also be in pristine condition.
“Use of the Legion’s colours of blue and gold gain extra points.”
Area judging took place from May to July with the national judging panel then looking at the winners for each area.
The winners were: Champion of Champions – Carnoustie
Large community with gardens – Forres
Small memorial with gardens – Golspie
Memorial without gardens – Dingwall
Small memorial with gardens – Greystone Carmyllie
Small memorial without gardens – Dallas
New entry – Kirriemuir