A MEMORIAL of the battle of Waterloo is to be restored in Irvine in time for the 200th anniversary next month.

A MEMORIAL of the battle of Waterloo is to be restored in Irvine in time for the 200th anniversary next month.

The stone in Irvine Old Parish kirkyard is a memorium to the town’s Duncan Forbes who died on the first day of the battle in 1815, June 18. The stone has stood neglected on the north wall of the parish with the wording on the memorial illegible from what it once read.

Historical records show that the words on the wall once read, “Sacred to the memory of Duncan Forbes, Private in the Royal Scots Greys, who fell gloriously at the Battle of Waterloo, 18th June 1815. Erected by his Townsmen.” North Ayrshire Council were made aware of the issue by local historian Billy Kerr and they instructed a conservation architect to produce a report on the stone and the options available for its renewing.

The council decided to approve work to begin on the stone’s restoration and hired Conservation Masonry Ltd from Glasgow who are highly experienced in the stonemasonry industry with Gary Robertson from the company leading the project.

Billy Kerr is delighted with the news and explained exactly what work will be completed to restore the memorial. He said: “It’s good news at last regarding Duncan’s memorial.

“I was speaking to Gary Robertson in the kirkyard and he explained that they intend to leave the base and pediment on the stone in-situ and remove and replace the main centre section.

“Gary also assured me that the task will be completed well in time for the forthcoming Waterloo bicentenary commemorations on June 18, when a re-dedication service is being planned to honour Irvine’s fallen hero.” Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Place, believes it was right for the council to take action and approve the restoration.

He said: “We recognise the historical significance of Duncan Forbes’ memorial and felt it was only fitting, on the 200th anniversary year since the Battle of Waterloo, that we remember Duncan and honour the sacrifice he made.

“A conservation architect produced a report on the options available for the memorial’s renewal, and we have now commissioned him to complete the works.

“The restoration of his memorial is due to be completed by 18 June, allowing the community to pay their respect on the day he died, 200 years ago.”