Today’s commemorations of the sacrifice of thousands of Highland soldiers, who surrendered to overwhelming German forces in 1940 at St Valery on the Channel coast, have been welcomed by Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron.

 Mr Cameron, who submitted a motion to the Scottish Parliament last week marking the anniversary, said: “The tributes that have been paid to the heroes of St Valery here in the Highlands and Islands, and across the world, have been very moving.

“It is striking how those sacrifices made by an earlier generation have struck a chord and generated such a heartful response today, the 80th anniversary.

“We will never forget what was done on our behalf and I’m sure the tradition of pipers playing Donald Maclean’s tune will endure for many years to come.

“It is difficult to imagine a more fitting tribute than the sound of the pipes on an occasion like this.”