FOR some veterans Remembrance Sunday turned into a day they wish to forget.

Former armed forces personnel marched through the streets of Alloa to the cenotaph to pay tribute to their fallen comrades.

But when they got to the war memorial in Bedford Place they were told to "fall out" before the wreaths were laid.

It meant the veterans were forced to move on to the pavement to stand with the public while others in the parade, such as the local air and army cadets, remained at attention.

The decision incensed the veterans and has been described by the Royal British Legion Scotland as "ludicrous".

Now wee county veterans are considering boycotting next year's parade as a result.

Former Argyll and Sutherland Highlander Duncan Paterson (60) said, "When we got to the cenotaph we did a right wheel and a right wheel and then were told to fall out and had to stand on the pavement. We were flung to the side. Some stood but most just walked away.

"The council should hang their heads in shame. It was shocking. There's been talk that the boys will boycott it next year."

The parade, which included Lord Lieutenant Rt Hon Mr George Reid and Provost Derek Stewart, began at Greenside Street car park.

Veterans, cadets and representatives from Clackmannanshire, Scottish Parliament, Royal British Legion, police and fire service were led by the Balaklava Pipes and Drums to the cenotaph.

Usually the veterans would stand at attention with the rest of the parade at the war memorial.

However the feel they were moved off to make room for the various representatives - something that has been denied.

Neil Griffiths, spokesman for the Royal British Legion Scotland, said the decision may have been due to a "misunderstanding".

He said, "It sounds as if there has been a communication failure here as it is ludicrous that veterans are told to stand aside while cadets take their place on a Remembrance Sunday. Clearly the debt of honour is being paid by veterans to their fallen colleagues, much that we welcome the respect of others, including cadets."

Other veterans who wrote to the Advertiser have been less forgiving, expressing their "disgust" at being asked to leave the parade.

John Hunter, of Alloa, said, "Would the organisers of the parade take note - this is a veterans' parade, not a cadets' parade. It was a kick in the teeth to veterans."

John Monaghan, also of Alloa, added, "Many veterans left and said they would not be back next year as they were not given their place on their Day of Remembrance for their fallen comrades. While the Provost and his entourage try to put on show, Alloa should be ashamed at the way it treated its veterans."

Provost Derek Stewart said the council was unaware that the veterans were requested to fall out.

He said, "I am bitterly disappointed to learn that anyone felt that the organisation of Sunday's Armistice Day Parade was in any way inappropriate.

"The council is unaware at this stage that a request was issued for anyone to fall out, but I have immediately arranged a meeting with the Parade Commander and representatives of the Royal British Legion Scotland to address the concerns raised."