A SOLDIER who was one of only two servicemen from Renfrewshire to receive the Victoria Cross has been remembered at a poignant ceremony in Linwood.


The tribute to Private Hugh McIver took place a century after he was killed in action on the battlefields of France during the First World War.


Hugh, from Linwood, was awarded the VC for single-handedly killing six enemy soldiers and capturing 20 more, allowing his unit to continue its advance.


He also risked his life to stop a British tank which had mistakenly opened fire on its own troops.

The Gazette:

Private Hugh McIver, who was awarded the Victoria Cross in the First World War


Tragically, Hugh was killed just a few days later.


Now a commemorative stone has been unveiled outside the Tweedie Hall, in his home town, to honour his sacrifice.


The ceremony, attended by Hugh’s relatives, was the first event staged in Renfrewshire to mark the countdown of 100 days until the anniversary of the end of the First World War.

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A short service was led by Renfrewshire Provost Lorraine Cameron, who was joined by Colonel Martin Gibson OBE, of the Royal Scots Museum, Colonel Sergeant Macrae, of the 1st Battalion, the Royal Regiment of Scotland, and Stu Colquhoun, of the Royal Scots Regimental Association.
A ceremonial wreath was also laid.


Provost Cameron said: “Hugh McIver demonstrated great bravery and devotion to duty while he served for our country during the First World War.


“He battled through the most difficult of adversity to ensure the safety of his fellow soldiers and fully deserves our recognition.


“The commemorative stone will ensure soldiers like Hugh are always remembered.”


Private McIver was born in 1890 and later enlisted in the Royal Scots regiment.


The award of the VC was in recognition of his heroic deeds on August 23, 1918, near Courcelle-le Compte, in northern France.


After he was killed in action, Hugh was buried at nearby Vraucourt Copse Cemetery.

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Colonel Gibson said: “Our regiment is immensely proud of Private Hugh McIver, who was a real soldier’s soldier.


“He was killed in action just a few days after his courageous deed and his bravery is a splendid example to all who have served and will serve in the future.


“We are very grateful to Renfrewshire Council and Provost Cameron for this special centenary event as the nation prepares to commemorate Armistice Day.”


Private McIver’s medals, including the VC, are now held at the Royal Scots Greys Museum, in Edinburgh Castle.