Dumbarton Castle anniversary marked

The 800th anniversary of Dumbarton Castle receiving its Royal Warrant was marked in a ceremony attended by Dunbartonshire's Lord Lieutenant, Mrs Jill Young MBE.

Gunners from 207 (City of Glasgow) Battery Royal Artillery, fired a nine-round salute to mark the end of the year-long celebrations of Dumbarton’s 800th Anniversary.

The event was enjoyed by residents and history enthusiasts.

The salute was led by West Dunbartonshire's Provost Douglas McAllister accompanied by the Depute Provost John Millar,  Mrs Young and local councillors.

Mrs Young took the salute and later inspected the Gunners at the event and said how important the moment was for the town.

'This is a remarkable event to recognise a remarkable moment. Dumbarton has played such a huge part in Scottish history down many centuries and it is so special to be here today,' she said.

Provost McAllister delivered a speech highlighting the significance of the occasion and the history and heritage of Dumbarton. The event was followed by a civic reception held in the Church Street offices.

Provost McAllister said: “This is an extraordinary milestone for the town of Dumbarton and we’re so proud we were able to have this event held in such a historic landmark. I feel very proud to be able to witness this occasion and for the local community to come out and support this was fantastic. We’re proud of our heritage and we’re pleased to honour that today with this salute as we look to Dumbarton’s future.

Depute Provost Millar said, “We’re reminded today of all the achievements which Dumbarton has made in the last 800 years. We’ve been at the forefront of many industries and we’ve got so much more to give as a town and as people. This was a historic event and something we can all look back on with pride.