Thenue and Ardenglen bring community together to remember lost lives

One community’s efforts to remember lost loved ones has taken place again after being halted by the pandemic. It has received support from two local housing associations which both contributed floral tributes to remember lost lives.

Castlemilk’s ‘Flowers on the Railings’ annual event was held on Saturday (18 September) – 18 months after the last one took place.

This year it had added poignancy due to the heartbreak caused by covid and was supported by Ardenglen and Thenue Housing Associations.

The ceremony gets its names from the flowers sold on the day for £10 or £5 or £3 for a single rose which are then tied to railings in Castlemilk Drive.

As in previous years, it took place beside the “Lost Lives” Memorial Garden which was created to remember Castlemilk’s lost loved ones whether they died from natural causes or in tragic circumstances.

It is immaculately kept and is a place for reflection and remembrance in tranquil surroundings. It is widely respected and valued by residents.

This year’s event particularly remembered Castlemilk residents who lost their lives to coronavirus.

As in previous years, a Humanist celebrant led a brief service and there was singing from a choir. Balloons with a message of love on them were also released – 18 in total which represents each month of the pandemic.

One of the organisers Maureen Cope MBE said: “This was a significant occasion which reflects the importance the Castlemilk community places on remembering lost loved ones. While there is understandable sorrow, the focus is on remembrance and appreciation for lives that have been well lived.

“This year it has added poignancy with the opportunity to remember lives lost to coronavirus which has touched every community.

“It was important to bring this occasion back after an absence of 18 months as it means so much to so many people.”

Both Ardenglen and Thenue said they were “privileged” to represent their tenants by taking part.