Danderhall Dunkirk hero hits century

George was wounded and subsequently captured during the action at Le Paradis, 40 miles south of the Channel in May 1940, when The Royal Scots as part of 4 Brigade had a pivotal role in delaying the enemy advance to allow the evacuation from Dunkirk.

Their orders were to fight to the last man. Following his capture,George spent four years as a prisoner of war in Poland. George worked for 40 years in Duncan’s chocolate factory, Powderhall, Edinburgh and subsequently for Rowntree’s when Duncan’s were bought out. He married his first wife Elizabeth Barkley in 1945 and she passed away in 1972.

He met his second wife Elizabeth (Betty) Dowie in 1976 and married in 1979. He has three sons, five daughters, 15 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren, with number 28 on the way.

Colonel Martin Gibson said: “George is a marvellous man who is very proud of his family. He is very matter of fact about his time, 80 years ago, fighting for King and Country; when discussing with him his time as a Royal Scot he said: ‘I had to do it to ensure that Britain’s freedom was preserved’. The Royal Scots regimental family wish him many happy returns of the day.”

Midlothian Provost, Cllr Peter Smaill added: “It’s an honour to gift Mr Simpson a card and quaich on behalf of the council, which we will have engraved. I’m only sorry I can’t do that in person on the day because of lockdown.

“I’m really looking forward to visiting Mr Simpson later in the year, when safe to do so, to hear more about his remarkable century and service to his country.”

You can pass on your birthday wishes to George online here.