Blair ‘Paddy’ Mayne: 'Polite appeal' for enthusiasts not to stand on family burial plot of legendary Northern Ireland soldier

The appeal is made on War Years Remembered page for fans at ‘Robert Blair Mayne DSO's, grave in a family plot at Old Abbey, Movilla Cemetery, Newtownards’.

The appeal ‘With immediate effect’ says: ‘Can we please ask those wishing to pay their respects to "Colonel Paddy"

Refrain from climbing over the railings and standing on the family plot’.

It adds that the appeal has been made ‘after a family discussion’ and ‘due to damage happening at the grave’ with ‘people climbing the railings and standing on the grave’.

It adds that ‘some people see that as disrespectful standing on the grave’ but also because ‘the family plot is also very full and recently we have noticed that the ground has been sinking severely in places’.

‘After getting advice we have been informed it is due to the influx of people standing on the plot, we have also found that few of the tributes, left by visitors have been damaged,’ adds the appeal.

‘Today we purchased another 18 bags of stone to level the grave back up again and tidied up the plot ready for the service to be held to mark the 70th anniversary of his death.

‘We are the custodians of the grave through the very kind permission of his family.

‘Our volunteers have maintained and up kept the grave on behalf of the family since his artefacts were donated to the collection at the museum,’ adds the post.

‘We do this out of respect and it is both humbling and an honour to be able to do so’.

The post adds: ‘Can we please ask all visitors in future who are leaving flowers, wreaths or crosses at the grave to do so at the gravel close to the railings, without climbing into the plot.

‘Our volunteers who check on it regularly carry hooks and wires and will fit wreaths that have been laid to the railings if necessary.

‘This is to preserve Blair's legacy with respect and to prevent any further damage.

‘On behalf of our volunteers and Blair's family we thank you all for your assistance in preserving the family plot.

‘Together We Will Remember Them’

The appeal comes ahead of a 70th anniversary commemoration event in Regent House – Blair Mayne’s former school – on Demember 12

on the 70th anniversary of his death.

The Newtownards soldier, who lived from 1915-1955, was a legendary soldier, sportsman, and founding member of the Special Air Service (SAS) during WWII, known for his incredible bravery and leadership in daring raids behind enemy lines.

He became one of Britain's most decorated soldiers (DSO & Three Bars).

He was also a controversial figure due to his heavy-drinking.

During his early life, Blair Mayne was known to have excelled at sports, representing Ireland and the British Lions at rugby and becoming a heavyweight boxing champion.

He studied law at Queen's University Belfast before joining the army in 1939.