Thousands expected to pay doorstep tribute for Remembrance Sunday

Thousands of people are expected to observe two minutes' silence on their doorsteps this morning, to mark Remembrance Sunday.

The coronavirus pandemic has forced most events across the country to be cancelled.

Dr Claire Armstrong, chief executive of Legion Scotland, said: "It is deeply disappointing that remembrance events are being impacted in this way given their importance to so many people.

"Coronavirus must not cancel remembrance, but public safety is paramount. We are calling on everyone to take to their doorsteps at 11am on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day to observe the two-minute silence.

"We must be united in spirit, if not in person, to ensure that we pay our respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice."

Veterans, serving military personnel and members of the public have been reflecting on what remembrance and the poppy means to them. 

Amongst them was Second World War veteran Cathy Drummond. The 98-year-old from Dunfermline served as a radio operator in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force from 1941 to 1944.

She said: "Remembrance makes me think of the men and women who have lost their lives, including my husband. It is very sad every year. We will remember them."

An official ceremony for dignitaries will be taking place at the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle.