Post by East Renfrewshire Council

Norwegian researchers Kjell, George and Odbjørn recently visited Neilston as they explore the shared history between Scotland and Norway during the Second World War. 🇳🇴 The visit was hosted by Matt Drennan from the Neilston War Memorial Association, with the trio's trip forming part of a wider 10-day tour of Scotland as they gather material for their next book. Neilston was a particularly important stop, as 503 Norwegian civilians were given refuge there in 1945. The visit began at Kingston Park, where the group met Provost Mary Montague and Council Leader Owen O’Donnell. They were shown local memorials, including those dedicated to Pipe Major Iain MacDonald and the SS Henry Bacon, which commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of those who served. A highlight of the day was a traditional Scottish welcome, with Pipe Major Russell Mechan piping the group through the park. They also heard the story of the rescue of over 500 Norwegian civilians from Sørøya- with a number later settling in Neilston. Kjell, George and Odbjørn also visited the last remaining WW2 hostel building in the park, where those refugees once lived, highlighting Neilston’s role in such an important chapter of international history. 🤝