The chosen design caused great controversy, because it was intended to be just a memorial, and to make no statement whatever about war. There were no gallant warriors, no pale-faced angels, no weapons, no flags. Just a long form in black polished granite, bearing more than 58,000 names. Some people loved the idea, some did not, but it was built. It is called, starkly, 'The Wall’. Now much admired, and wondered at, and wept over – even the occasional catholic priest from Scotland has found himself in Washington, lost in contemplation of the simplicity of its message.

When wars end, there are always names without owners left behind. If we forget them, then we can learn nothing from them. In Kinloss this week, some fine men came home. Their families will always remember them. But what of you and me? At the going down of the sun, and in the morning – dare we forget them? (Deuteronomy 4:9)

Father Colin Stewart, St Sylvester’s, Elgi A SIXTIES cult writer is returning to his roots this weekend.

John Mackie, the celebrated Banff lyricist and poet, is performing a selection of his work at the 17th Century Tugnet Ice House at Spey Bay tomorrow (Saturday).

Accompanied by virtuoso guitarist Adrian Baillie, the selection is drawn from four decades of his writing and encompasses many different musical styles.

Among the pieces to be performed are ones about the mouth of the River Spey, where John spent part of his childhood, living just across the river in Garmouth for the first nine years of his life. His father worked as the greenkeeper on Garmouth’s golf course.

Working as a poet in London during the Swinging Sixties, he wrote lyrics for many singers and bands of the 60s and 70s, including David Bowie, Brian Auger, Roger Bunn of Roxy Music and the Average White Band.

During that period he worked with many luminaries of the music scene at Apple, the Beatles company, and appeared on bills with Marc Bolan, Joe Cocker, Marsha Hunt and Pink Floyd.

Scots-born Adrian Baillie spent four decades of performing in three continents.

Entry is by donation. The performance begins at 7.15pm and people are advised to bring warm clothing.

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