A war memorial commemorating members of Paisley Lawn Tennis Club who died in military service has been relocated to the University of the West of Scotland’s Paisley campus.
The memorial was formally unveiled in its new location on Monday 8th June during a ceremony attended by civic leaders, military representatives and members of the local community.
Originally founded in the 1880s, Paisley Lawn Tennis Club played a significant role in the town’s sporting and social life. After moving to Thornly Park in 1909, the club erected the memorial to honour 15 members who lost their lives during wartime service.
The memorial has now been transferred from the former Thornly Park site to UWS, a move intended to improve public access and secure its long-term preservation.
The ceremony included a reconsecration by Reverend James Gibson, Interim Moderator and Minister of Paisley Abbey. Guests also heard from Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, Vice Lord-Lieutenant David MacLellan and Renfrewshire Provost Lorraine Cameron.
Representatives from military organisations took part in a wreath-laying ceremony led by British Legion Parade Commander Paddy Devlin, accompanied by a piper, before the memorial was officially unveiled.
Photo Credit: UWS
The relocation highlights historic links between the former Paisley Lawn Tennis Club and Paisley College, one of the predecessor institutions that later became UWS. Among those named on the memorial is Matthew Hodgart, who served on the College’s governing body at the outbreak of the First World War.
Following the ceremony, guests attended a reception featuring displays detailing the history of the memorial and the former tennis club.
Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “The relocation of the Paisley Lawn Tennis Club War Memorial to the heart of our Paisley campus ensures that the memory of those commemorated will remain visible, accessible and cared for, for generations to come. With deep roots in the town and a commitment to our local community, we are proud to play a role in preserving this important part of Paisley’s heritage and to provide a fitting setting where the service and sacrifice of these individuals can continue to be recognised and remembered.”
Photo Credit: UWS