Published Date: Sep 29th, 2025
Dunfermline had a very special visitor on Friday, 26 September. Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal came to help mark 100 years since the city’s World War I memorial was first dedicated.
The afternoon began with a procession from Dunfermline Abbey to the memorial, led by the Dunfermline District (RBLS) Pipe Band. The Princess Royal unveiled a new plaque and joined the community in paying tribute to those who gave their lives during the First World War.
Earlier this year, Fife Council carried out extensive restoration work on the memorial to bring it back to its former glory. The project was supported by £195,000 from the West Fife Common Good Fund, helping to preserve this important part of local history for future generations.
A highlight of the ceremony was the performance of In Honorem, a piece of music first played at the original dedication 100 years ago. After the formalities, The Princess Royal took time to meet veterans, families of the fallen, school pupils and youth groups.
Depute Provost, Cllr Dave Dempsey said: “It was a real honour to welcome The Princess Royal to Dunfermline for such a meaningful occasion. The memorial is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our community, and thanks to the restoration work funded by the West Fife Common Good, it will continue to stand proudly for generations to come.”
It was a proud day for Dunfermline, filled with reflection, community spirit and a renewed commitment to remembering the past.
