DURING the Second World War, tyrannical forces with twisted ideas sought to destroy the way of life of people across Europe.

Much of Europe was occupied and the free French forces sought bases outside their homeland.

Greenock became the largest home port of the free French navy, with as many as 1,500 French sailors stationed here.

Charles de Gaulle even broadcast to the French people from Greenock in 1941.

That strong bond with the French people during a time of war is forever remembered in Inverclyde.

In 1946, a memorial was erected to remember the forces stationed here and the many who lost their lives in the struggle to regain their home.

It stands today at the summit of Lyle Hill.

The free French emblem, the Cross of Lorraine, sits atop an anchor and is a visible reminder of those forces who, with their home occupied and never knowing if they would make it back, were welcomed to our homes in Greenock.

In those days, when darkness fell through occupation, our community stood shoulder to shoulder with the people of France.

Today, the country is once again under attack.

This time from terrorist forces using twisted ideas which pervert a proud faith to their own end.

And, once again, we stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of France.

A few weeks ago on Remembrance Sunday many of us stood at the top of Lyle Hill in front of the monument to remember the free French forces.

Standing there in the wind and rain was Emmanuel Cocher from the French Consulate, a sign today that the Auld Alliance between us is still strong.

We have sent our messages of condolence to the people of France by raising the French standard above our Municipal Buildings in Greenock.

We have also opened a book of condolences which is available this week in the customer service centre in Clyde Square, Greenock.

If you are able to, please take the time to sign this, and share your thoughts on the tragic events in Paris.

It is also a chance to once again come together as a community, to stand shoulder to shoulder and show our solidarity with the people of France.