UWS formally unveiled the relocated Paisley Lawn Tennis Club War Memorial at its campus on Monday 8 June. 

Originally established in the 1880s, Paisley Lawn Tennis Club was a prominent part of the town’s sporting and social life. The Club moved to Thornly Park in 1909, where its war memorial was later erected to commemorate 15 members who died in wartime service.

The memorial has been relocated from the former Thornly Park site to UWS’s Paisley campus, in a move that will improve public access to the memorial and ensure its long-term preservation by the University.

The ceremony included a reconsecration by Reverend James Gibson, Interim Moderator and Minister of Paisley Abbey, as well as remarks from Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, Vice Lord-Lieutenant David MacLellan and Provost Lorraine Cameron. 

Representatives of military organisations, led by British Legion Parade Commander Paddy Devlin and accompanied by a piper, took part in a wreath-laying ceremony and the unveiling of the memorial in its new setting.

The relocation of the memorial reflects the shared history between the Paisley Lawn Tennis Club and Paisley College, a predecessor institution of UWS. Among those commemorated are individuals with close connections to the College, including Matthew Hodgart, a member of the College’s governing body at the outbreak of the First World War.

Following the ceremony, guests attended a reception featuring displays and historical information about the memorial, its origins and the history of Paisley Lawn Tennis Club. 

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: "The relocation of the Paisley Lawn Tennis Club War Memorial to the heart of our Paisley campus ensures that the memory of those commemorated will remain visible, accessible and cared for, for generations to come."

With deep roots in the town and a commitment to our local community, we are proud to play a role in preserving this important part of Paisley's heritage and to provide a fitting setting where the service and sacrifice of these individuals can continue to be recognised and remembered.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS