THIS will be the second year that the Provost and supporting councillors have not paid respects at the monument at the foot of Bank Street which commemorates that eventful day on April 8 in 1820, when the townsfolk of Greenock rose up in defiance against the British state and Empire, releasing the six radical political prisoners from the old prison.

Two years ago the provost laid a wreath, and supported by Councillor Jim Clocherty carried out this ceremony, which had become an annual event, until interrupted by the dreaded Covid lockdown.

That lockdown year the late Gordon Bryce laid a floral tribute, and paid his lone respects to our brave town martyrs, who were trying in vain to obtain democratic rights.

After releasing the radical prisoners our townsfolk continued their march onwards, but were confronted by militia outside the then Tontine Hotel, now the James Watt Bar, where the crowd pelted the soldiers.

The retreating soldiers opened fire, and killed and fatally wounded nine. Perhaps you are related to one of them.

All their names are at the monument, and it's worth a visit. The April 8 next year will be the 205th anniversary of this important event.

Be there and support our Provost, who I hope will pay tribute to our brave and gallant townsfolk of old.

The nine did not die in vain. Thanks to them and their like, we now have the vote. It is your duty to their memory to use it. See you at the polling booth.

In memory of the 1820 martyrs.

Iain Ramsay

Greenock