ELECTED officials, members of the public, veterans, and youth uniformed organisations gathered together in Greenock to mark the start of Inverclyde's remembrance commemorations. 

An emotional service honouring those who lost their lives in battle was held at the garden of remembrance in Clyde Square on Saturday. 

Reverend Margaret Nutter led the proceedings, supported by deputy provost and Poppyscotland representative Councillor Graeme Brooks, who distributed poppies and crosses before the service got under way. 

(Image: Alex Craig) (Image: Alex Craig) Council leader Stephen McCabe, and councillors Tommy McVey, Robert Moran, Elizabeth Robertson and Kirsty Law paid their respects, along with Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West MP Martin McCluskey. 

Louise Long and Stuart Jamieson from the council's management team were in attendance, as were members of the Sea Cadets, Air Cadets, Girl Guides, and Boys Brigade. 

(Image: Alex Craig) The event was also supported by a group of 12 local volunteers. 

Members of the Sea Cadets formed a guard of honour for the procession, led by council officer Stewart Burns, and the Boys Brigade buglers played poignant tunes in the garden of remembrance. 

(Image: Alex Craig) Councillor Brooks laid the first cross, paving the way for other attendees to lay tributes and pay their respects. 

After the service, Councillor Brooks, Reverend Nutter, and council officer Stewart Burns made their way to Greenock Cemetery where Councillor Brooks laid wreaths at the Greenock Blitz war memorial, and at the mass grave. 

(Image: Alex Craig) (Image: Alex Craig) Councillor Brooks said it was good to see so many people there on the day. 

He added: "It was a poignant service and was well-attended by representatives from the council and uniformed organisations, as well as members of the public.

"These commemorations traditionally mark the start of remembrance in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday on November 10, and Armistice Day on November 11. 

"They also coincide with the launch of the annual poppy appeal and help raise awareness of that. 

"This is a collective opportunity for all of us to pay our respects to the men and women killed in service over the years, and supports Poppyscotland's fundraising efforts across Inverclyde to help current and former members of the Armed Forces and their families."