A parade was held at Meadowbank for the young members of Edinburgh’s Civil Defence Messenger Service, attended by some 800 boys, many of whom were drawn from local Scout troops.
A highlight of the programme was a “Front Line” communications display, in which the boys demonstrated their ability to deliver messages swiftly and efficiently despite simulated wartime challenges - including a collapsed bridge and various other obstacles created to mimic the effects of a blitz.
These staged difficulties were staged in the park to test the young messengers’ skills and to showcase their enthusiasm and determination to uphold their motto: “The message must get through.”
The boys were inspected and met several local dignitaries; also in attendance were the Royal Dragoons Band and the Edinburgh City Police Pipe Band.
One of the day’s most memorable moments was a musical cycle display performed by 32 boys carrying the flags of the Allies, culminating in a stirring finale as the National Anthem was played.