Strathblane, Blanefield, Mugdock, Carbeth & Auchineden (circulation 1000) Issue 24... September 2006 Price - £1 DENALI ATTEMPT [email protected] FACES EXTREME CONDITIONS Martin McCallum

t 17,000 feet on Denali, Mount McKinley (in AAlaska) to those who try to tame the mountain by giving it a familiar name, it’s minus fifty degrees. It had been minus thirty five when we left the tent, so cold that we put on every stitch of clothing before we started uphill. Energy gel packs and insulated water bottles are all frozen solid though they are under four layers of jackets. My left toes won’t warm up. If I go on I’ll make the top, but it will be the last journey for my toes. That breaks the rules, my rules. I turn and go down without regret. We’d been on the mountain about three weeks. My climbing partner Ian Dawson and I had spent the first week slogging across glaciers and up Martin McCallum (above) made an attempt on the summit of Denali (Mount McKinley) with steep slopes to advanced base at climbing partner Ian Dawson from Gartmore, in extreme conditions. 14,500. Eight and a half stone of supplies each, half on our us. The little plastic sledges, like the ones problem is you have to negotiate the backs, half on sledges we towed behind the kids slide down the horses’ field in ‘Valley of Death’ to get to it. The Park every winter, had an evil mind of their Rangers try to discourage this name, but Inside own, catching on every little protrusion this year the many avalanches falling into determined to stop you going uphill, then it justified the name. We changed our • Pipe band day out racing down banging into the backs of objective to the standard West Ridge. • Duntreath Castle keep your legs on any downhills. Not fun. Here we saw long camel trails of people Food was basic, cup-a-soup and instant paying to be led up to the highest point • School crossing proposal noodles every night for dinner. One in North America. Most of them night we gave ourselves a treat, shouldn’t be there as without their guide • Commonwealth village dehydrated chicken and peach crumble. they would have fallen down the first • Tom Weir Unfortunately our bodies couldn’t cope crevasse they came across. Is it with this feast of protein and I spent the justifiable for these people to be here? • Local 5k and 10k success night darting in and out of the tent, my Why should one human pay another to powder snow filled long johns melting take him into a situation where they are • Amateur wine making inside my sleeping bag on each return. both risking their lives? On Denali we • Wildlife pages We had started out planning to had a lot of time to think on these things. climb the West Rib, this is a little Most of the second week was spent in • Old railway clean up climbed route from the Northeast fork our tent at 14,500. Storms came in of the Kahiltna Glacier to the top; nine trapping us in our tent for days on end. There’s even a special The next issue will be in December thousand feet of steep snow and ice in a beautifully straight line. The only cont’d on page 14 1 WILLIAM LINNING FAIRTRADE Murray O’Donnell Anne Scott he village was saddened to learn of the death in August of Willie Linning. He was born at steering Blanefield in 1930, the elder of a family of seven, g r o u p wasT a pupil of Strathblane Public School, and completed Aw a s his education at Balfron High School, leaving at the formed in 2004 age of fourteen. His first job was as a message boy at to apply for the local Co-op shop, working his way up till he was fairtrade status appointed manager of the Lennoxtown Co-op where for the villages he was for some years before returning to the Blanefield of Strathblane shop where he worked until its closure in 1967. and Blanefield. He then went on to work in Templetons in Milngavie where he met Cathie. Strathblane They married and raised their two daughters, Karen and Pamela. Willie was a Guides contacted all businesses and devoted husband and father, and loving grandfather to Laura, Adam, and Daniel. organisations to consider using fairtrade Following his time with Templetons, Willie was employed by British Rail and, as products. he enjoyed railway memorabilia collecting, this was an ideal job for him. His hobbies included stamp and coin collecting and, in the fifties, he was an active Guidelines are set up by the member of the local village drama club. As a member of Strathblane Bowling Fairtrade Foundation to achieve certain Club, he was president on two occasions and was a winner of the club championship. goals. As a result, Ian Brown supplies a A keen gardener, he grew flowers and vegetables that were much admired. number of food products in his shop; Willie was a special constable for some time. He was a church elder, and the Blane Valley Inn serves fairtrade tea member of the congregational board of the church where he was also a Sunday and coffee; and many businesses and school teacher. Friends and neighbours from near and far, both old and new, organisations now use fairtrade products gathered to pay their respects to Willie at the funeral service - he was that kind of including The Church, Youth Club, man. The sympathy of the community is extended to his family. Library, The Fun Hut, Campbell Control Services and Appleton Assoc. The Community Council has minuted that MACLEAN CURRIE they agree to do the same. Murray O’Donnell & Moira Fischbacher The application form has been completed and all requirements met, so he death of Maclean Currie in July while on holiday in Cyprus was not only a shock to his hopefully in the next issue of The Blane family, but also stunned those who knew him I will be able to tell you that Fairtrade T Status has been awarded to the villages. in the village. Maclean lived with his wife Shona and 10 year old son Lewis, in Blane Crescent and has There has to be a continued commitment been in the area since 1996. His sister Audrey lives in to this campaign so, if you would like to New York. "convert your workplace", go to Although many of you will not have known him www.fairtrade.org, or contact me on personally, you will no doubt have heard of or seen 771065 for further information. and greatly enjoyed his comedy and drama performances with the Blane Valley Players, a group he helped to found in 1997. He had many interests in Difficulty contacting Stirling addition to the Players such as playing the trumpet Council for a solution to your with the Tullis Russell Brass Band in his native Fife, and walking - he particularly problem? Phone or e-mail your enjoyed walking in this area. local Councillor Maclean had both an active social life and a full work life. Although only 42, he had contributed widely to patients in the Glasgow area throughout his NHS Alistair Berrill career. His recent appointment as General Manager at the Victoria Infirmary followed management roles in Drumchapel, Springburn, Maryhill and Woodside  01786 489266 (evenings) amongst others, where he was popular with his colleagues, and recognised as making e-mail: [email protected] a difference to health services. During his time working at Lennox Castle, he studied for an MBA at Glasgow University, and after that maintained his links with Surgeries on the same evenings as the University by contributing to health services management, teaching to Community Council meetings. No management and medical students. He was appointment needed. All welcome. always keen to learn new things and to 6.45pm - 7.15pm FUNDING share that learning with others so that they in the Primary School might benefit. YOU will find an addressed envelope *********** enclosed with your Blane. We really Most importantly of all, he met his wife, Shona, while working in the NHS. STIRLING COUNCIL do need your support - 85% of the They met while she was his secretary at For all Council enquiries community makes no contribution to Gartnaval Royal hospital, and they were the cost of providing you with the married for 13 years. There was an  0845 277 7000 newsletter. If you appreciate it, please opportunity to give donations at the funeral send us a donation or give it to the and the sum of £1,028 was raised for ward Mon-Fri 8am-8pm Saturday distributor. We are dependent on you. 4C at Gartnavel General hospital. 10am-4pm Emergencies 24 hour You may make a donation via Maclean made a huge contribution [email protected] the community website below. Go to to those he worked with and lived amongst. www.stirling.org.uk the BLANE page where you will find He was very much looking forward to a PayPal button. Click it and follow playing a part in a forthcoming production Visit Viewforth and local offices the instructions. (The PayPal button at Mugdock Country Park theatre in Mon-Fri 9am-5pm on the home page is for support October. This has now been cancelled and of the website, not the Blane.) Maclean will be missed a great deal by Stirling Council, Viewforth, 2 www.strathblanefield.org.uk those of us who knew him. Stirling FK8 2ET GRAND DAY OUT FOR PIPE BAND David Brown

unny Sunday, 4th of June, at the crack of ten past eleven, members of Strathendrick Pipe Band, some parents, Sbrothers and sisters and camp followers left the Edmonstone Hall for a walk to Killearn, via Campsie Dene Road and the water track to Dumgoyne. Hugh Parsons and John Stewart entertained sheep and shepherds along the way. After a bit we diverted up Dumgoyne, pipes tucked away. Sam Penrice dropped his sac over the edge and I was volunteered back down to collect, and returned to a reception of "what took you so long?" Pre-lunch entertainment continued with both Alistairs joining John and Hugh for a concert around the cairn. Lunch scoffed, we lay about and enjoyed the view, Hugh Parsons, John Stewart, Alistair Robertson and chewed the cud and generally bonded; then returned down Alistair Graves ‘in concert’ on top of Dumgoyne and over the moor to Killearn, adult males thundering along as we took over the restaurant and demanded tucker. Wine at the thought of cold beer. Arriving too early for dinner, the replaced the fluid intake and the waiters were hard pressed dads went to the Black Bull Bar and the rest to the park. keeping up with our demands. Dinner enjoyed (rather a lot on The numbers increased as more parents and younger the floor), we parted company. siblings joined us for dinner in the Bull. Waiters visibly shook A Grand Day Out!

The Village Club WEBSITE UPDATE is now registered Alan Campbell for marriage ceremonies and he website has been well received by the Christopher community and I thank everyone who emailed their Breslin and Tpositive comments. We are getting lots of visitors, Lorraine Edwards primarily interested in the pictures, history, organisations and what's on. The only thing we are short on is of Kirkhouse contributions so, please send in anything you think would Road were the be of interest to the community, especially old or new first to have their pictures of local interest, details of events you have wedding and planned and if you run a club or organisation, don't reception there on keep it a secret, tell the world via the website! Since the last edition of The Blane, the main 24th June. The addition to the site has been some more articles about party then crossed local history. There will be more to come and hopefully the road to the more pictures too. Finally, I realise that not everyone Edmonstone Hall has the ability to access the internet to see the website. If for a ceilidh in the you don’t, then you can do so at the library free and you are welcome to call me on 07799 794560 if you have evening. something you would like added but don't have email. SENIOR CITIZEN’S MYSTERY BUS TOUR Emma Findlay excellent meal and very much appreciated by he coach with 33 members of the everyone. Unfortunately the Senior Citizen’s Club left the rain came on while we were village at 12.30 p.m on Saturday dining but as our trip was Tth 19 August. We were all looking almost over it did not spoil forward to an enjoyable day and this it our day. certainly turned out to be. Thankfully After a leisurely the continual rain of the Friday had journey home we arrived ceased and the weather was warm and back in the village at 8 p.m. sunny. A most pleasant and Our first stop was Sandyholm enjoyable time was had by Child labour or young enterprise? Certainly not Garden Centre in Lanark where we spent all. senior citizens, Jamie and Gregor Horrocks clean a very pleasant and interesting hour before continuing on our mystery tour. CLUB RE-START the Editor’s car - about time too! After travelling through some very The Senior Citizens re-start scenic countryside we arrived at our on Tuesday 26th September with the age of 18 is eligible to join. destination – The New Lanark Heritage enrolment followed by a Country and We meet every second Tuesday at Village. This was a very enjoyable and Western Evening. the Edmonstone Hall at 7.30 p.m. and interesting visit with much to see and We are looking forward to have a varied programme. Please do. All too soon it was time for our welcoming new members – as well as come along and give us a try. High Tea in the New Lanark Hotel, an meeting “old friends”. Anyone over the Look forward to seeing you there. 3 VIEW FROM THE POLICE OFFICE EAB Services Paul Barr bags being secreted before targeting that Local vehicle only. It is much safer to leave uring the early hours of Monday valuables at home or take them with you Tree & 17th July, 2006, I along with a as you go for a walk in the park. Dcolleague from Balfron, traced a Many of you will have noticed the hedgerow male within a vehicle at the Khyber Car new single yellow lines painted on Park at Mugdock Country Park. Kirkburn and Southview Roads maintenance A substantial quantity of around the school. Parking is amphetamine, ecstasy and prohibited on these lines during cannabis was seized from the school dropping off and vehicle. This is thought to have picking up times. I conducted 07717872838 a street value of at least £20,000, an education phase prior to the however this figure could rise school holidays regarding the depending on the purity of the drugs. new parking restrictions. Now that the I am confident that these drugs were new term has started the education not destined for supply in the phase has moved to enforcement. Blanefield area. Please be advised that any person A 45 year old male from the flouting these restrictions can be Drumchapel area of Glasgow issued with a £30 fixed penalty ticket. appeared at Stirling Sheriff Court I am hopeful that motorists will take on 18/7/06 charged with a heed and prevent the need for tickets number of offences under the to be issued. Misuse Of Drugs Act 1971.This is a If any person wishes to contact me significant seizure and adds to work for advice or to pass on information already done by officers of Central regarding a crime, I can be contacted at Scotland Police under the banner of Blanefield Police Office on 01360 Operation Overlord. 770224. I can also be contacted via e- There were three thefts from mail on the Blanefield community web secure and unattended vehicles at page at: www.centralscotland.police.uk/ Mugdock Country Park during July. localpolicing/ These took place on 3 separate Saturday stirling_dunblane_blanefield. afternoons and may be linked. On each Alternatively information occasion a handbag was placed within regarding crimes can be passed to the boot of the vehicle before the victims Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. This walked to the park. I believe that the can be done in confidence and a reward Claire Sharp married Stuart McCloy on person responsible will have watched the may be payable. 20th May 2006 at Balbirnie House in Markinch, Fife

TIRLING’s first book festival, Off the Page, opens in September and features an exciting line-up of writers, Claire Sharp Spoets and entertainers (see Library Corner page22). The Festival, organised by Stirling Council Libraries, packs in 55 events in five days from September 26 and features 07919 864 755 nationally and internationally-recognised authors. Big names appearing at the festival include thriller writer Christopher Brookmyre and Nick Barratt, the man behind CAKES Wedding and celebration the BBC’s family history series Who Do You Think You cakes individually designed for your Are? Crime writer Alanna Knight, who penned the Inspector special occasion Faro series about the Victorian detective will also take part with a special murder mystery event. FAVOURS Wide range of Teenagers will have the chance to meet chiller writer traditional & modern handcrafted Melvin Burgess. Younger readers can chat to Mairi Hedderwick, creator of the delightful Katie Morag books set favours to complement your theme. on the magical, western isle of Struay. Lin Anderson will host an adult learning event. Other TIARAS The perfect finishing authors taking part include Catherine MacPhail, Karen touch for brides and bridesmaids McCombie, creator of the zany Ally’s World series of books, -individually designed for you. local journalist and author Kirsty Scott and children’s author Julie Bertagna. Poet Janet Paisley will also appear in a “Poem, STATIONERY Full range of Pie and Pint” evening at the Tolbooth in Stirling. traditional & contemporary designs. There will be cookery events, a fiddle talk, drama and cartoon workshops and a local history session. It concludes MAKE-UP Wedding package by with two performances of the classic tale The Railway professional make-up artist for bride, Children at the Macrobert, performed by the Storytellers bridesmaids & mother of the bride. Theatre. Details about Off the Page book festival events can be seen on www.stirling.gov.uk/offthepage  Wwww.onefinedayweddingservices.com Tickets for events can be booked from the Albert email: [email protected] 4 Halls, Macrobert or Tolbooth or at the library. a Ceilidh Dance in The BURNS CLUB Edmonstone Hall on Friday 6th October, with the well known Gordon Posnett Neil Macmillan Ceilidh Band, and local girl Sheila Hall will n Saturday 19 also be singing. The cost of the August, The tickets is £7.50 each. There will OBlane Valley of course be a bar and we hope Burns Club organised to raise some money for Beatson a very successful Oncology. Details will be found coach trip to the on posters later and tickets will 10.30pm display at go on sale early September from The Edinburgh any committee member or can Military Tattoo. Prior be got from Gordon Posnett at to the Tattoo, the 50 770113. trippers had an excellent 3 course meal at The Beehive Restaurant in the BRILLIANT DAY Grassmarket which allowed some time for the exploration of the pubs prior to OUT the Tattoo commencement. Despite a Catriona Gray School outing to Burns country forecast of inclement weather, we had a dry and mild evening to watch the very year, the Blane we had lunch, bought things in the gift excellent displays which concluded with Valley Burns Club pays for shop and watched an audio-visual an amazing fireworks display scripted Strathblane Primary P6 to visit production of Tam O'Shanter. Next it to the music being played. E Burns country. This year's outing was was off to Brig o' Doon, before heading Tired but happy wanderers on Friday 9th June, which was a nice, back to the bus and school after a busy disembarked from the coach in sunny day. day. Blanefield about 2.30am the next We started by going round the It was a great experience and a morning having had an excellent night cottage where the poet was born and the brilliant day out. out. museum next to it. Then we went to see There are usually spare seats on A note should be put in your diary Kirk Alloway where Robert Burns' the bus, so if anyone from the village for another fun night with The Blane father was buried. After that we went to wants to come along next year, they Valley Burns Club as we have organised the Tam O'Shanter Experience, where would be welcome. STRATHENDRICK ROTARY CLUB PRESIDENTIAL HANDOVER AND GOLF AM AM Mike Menzies outstanding conditions. Again the photography was PRESIDENT extremely efficient and produced a Robert Cranstoun photograph of each team as they checked recently handed in with their scorecards - a touch which over the reins of was really appreciated by the president to Robin participants. Veitch. As incoming Everyone is now looking forward President Robin thanked to the next Am Am in 2007. Past President Robert for his most successful year and looked forward to building on the foundations that Robert had already laid and that The Rotary Club of Strathendrick would have another very successful year. The Rotary Club held their 10th Incoming President Robin Veitch annual Am Am at The Shian Golf (left) being congratulated by Past Course, home to the Balfron Golf President Robert Cranstoun Society on Saturday 12th August. The weather was absolutely ideal money raised. The main beneficiary and some very high scores were will be Cancer Research, Children’s achieved. One hundred and seventy and other Rotary supported seven competitors took part with the first charities. group setting off at 7am and the last at Roger Short, from The Rotary 2pm. Club of Strathendrick, and Convenor in The winning team, Stewart Taylor, The winning team were Stewart charge, was delighted with the superb Charlie Gaitor and Douglas Brown Taylor, Charlie Gaitor and Douglas turnout from golfers, both local and with President Robin Veitch Brown with a very creditable Stableford outside the area who enjoyed an excellent score of 55 points. The runners up were day of fellowship together. Roger The Club meets every Monday Gavin Bruce, Charlie Johnson and Chic wished to thank the many helpers outwith Calderwood with a score of 51 points. the Club who helped on the day, and evening - 6.30 for 7.00 in the At the same time as the Am Am, the Sponsors of the Am Am, without Black Bull in Killearn. If you are a Grand Balloon Race was held with one whose help this event would not have interested in finding out more thousand balloons being released from been possible. Roger also expressed his about the Rotary Club of the golf course. The race winners will thanks to the members and committee Strathendrick, please contact be announced at a later date. This, of the Balfron Golf Society for all their together with a raffle and tombola, will assistance, and the Greenkeepers for Robert Cranstoun 440697 or further enhance the contribution to the maintaining the course in such Allan Watson 860326. 5 follow current child protection laws. FUN HUT BEAVERS AND CUBS Without your help the beavers and cubs Avril Sandilands & Lynn Buchanan will not be able to function as we have to operate within the legal limits of the eavers: Age 6-8 yrs Monday: Scout Association. If the leader numbers Lynne Kelly 6.30pm - 7.30pm. Venue - Scout remain as they are, at present then a BHall behind doctors’ surgery. BSL waiting list will have to come into force. he Fun Hut has reconvened after Avril Sandilands (771082) Cubs: Age Thus some potential beaver or cub will the summer to provide a fun and 8-11 Wednesday: 7 - 8.30pm. Venue - have to be disappointed. friendly place for children under Scout Hall. Akela: Lynn Buchanan T (770267) AGM - Our AGM will take place at the 5 and their carers to meet. We have a We would like to welcome back beginning of October. We ask that as wide range of toys and activities on offer and say hello to all Beavers and Cubs - many parents as possible attend this as for children, organised by our fantastic a new session resumed at the end of we have to elect a new committee. play leaders! Carers can also meet, relax August. We look forward to a great Volunteers for this and a new fundraising and enjoy a refreshment. Come along session with lots of fun, craft, badge committee are being sought. In the past and visit us on a Monday, Wednesday work and outings. it has been left to the leaders and a very and Friday, 9.15 am – 11.15 am, during few select parents. This cannot continue term times, in the Strathblane Kirk APPEAL - due to an increase in to be the case. They need your help! Rooms. For any more information, numbers we must appeal for adults Committee meetings take place no more contact me on 770204. (parents and non-parents) to come than four times a year. Volunteer! Don’t forward and become warranted leaders. let Strathblane Beavers and Cubs fold The more warranted leaders the better due to lack of adult help. If you are RAINBOW as this would enable us to run a rota interested or know someone who might system e.g. one/two nights a month to be persuaded to become warranted, to GUIDES back up/help existing leaders. Obtaining be elected to the committee, or to help a warrant is extremely painless; it with fundraising etc., then please let one Wendy Hamilton involves applying for a police check to of the leaders know. he Rainbow Guides started back on T the first, of what we know will be many, Thursday, 7 September. We meet in badges ‘under their belts’. We wish them the Guide/Scout Hall well and know that they will help our (behind the doctors’ new girls settle in and make lots of new surgery) every friends. Thursday evening, It was also a sad term for us with from 6.15-7.15pm. the loss of some of our older girls who Girls should be aged 5- had reached the golden age of 14. 7yrs. At present there Catherine, Claire, Amy and Sunbeam are a few places left (you know who you are!!), to all of you and there is a short Paula and I wish you well and hope that waiting list (mainly you will come back and say hi from time with girls who are to time. You will be missed for your entering P1 but are not energy, your drive, all your help and yet 5yrs old). just because you were all amazing young Come along and The Rainbows during a recent visit to Strathclyde Police ladies. join the fun. Mounted Branch Our famous sleep-over last term was all about hair and beauty, eating way too much chocolate and watching DVDs, COUNCIL TAX GUIDES but mostly I think it’s just about being t’s now easy to make a payment over Lynn Wishart with lots of their friends and keeping the phone! Simply dial 0845 277 7000 their leaders up all night! But they are Iand tell the Adviser that you want to ello from the 1st Strathblane Girl popular, and I am sure we will get asked make a payment. You can also pay Guides. The new Guiding term for another one this term. online at www.stirling.gov.uk. Hstarted on Thursday 31st August The end of term night was “bring Alternatively, paying by Direct at 7.30 till 9.00 p.m at the scout hall a mum to guide night”; a big thanks to Debit would save a monthly call. If that and we welcomed all our guides back all our mums who came along and got a would suit you, phone Customer and said hello to the new guides coming wee taste of a typical evening, running Services at Stirling Council on 01786 up from the Brownies. games, making a badge and some 443210 with your bank details and they The last term went by in a whirl yummy chocolate crispy cakes (well the can arrange it over the phone. If you of activities with the girls taking part in wine helped a little!) Well done ladies don’t have a bank account, they will tell lots of different things around the village you really deserved your “special you how to easily open one. including the village clean-up where they badges”, and your daughters were very If you are on a low income, you all worked very hard and raised £100 proud of you! may be due Housing Benefit or Council for funds. September sees our first camp with Tax Benefit to help towards paying your One of the most enjoyable the rest of the units in our district and I Rent or Council Tax. To claim, just activities the girls are invited to take part know that the girls will really enjoy all phone 01786 443210 and you will get in is the Fair Trade Coffee Morning the activities laid on and, for some of help. If you are house-bound, the under the expert eyes of Lynne James. them, the first time under canvas. Council can arrange for an officer to visit It is our pleasure to help out at such a So that was last term; crafts, you at home. worthwhile event and we look forward cookery, badge work, games and a If you have applied before but did to being invited to the next one. whole load of fun. If you want to come not qualify, call again as changes The girls that came up last term along and join us, phone me on 770569 to the system may mean that you have passed all their pre-promise or Paula Grant on 770137; or come 6 are now due benefit. challenges and are now “old hands” with along to one of the meetings. or, best of all, a dark and spooky bat highlights are below: THE KIRK cave! The craft room was always a hive of activity and children were delighted November 30th St Andrews night with everything they made and took with the Sandyhills Choir (in the church) home, take a look around the village December 11th Christmas for the terrific printed tshirts many of Celebrations the children made for themselves. January 29th Burns Night A huge number of people of all February 12th Learn about the ages took part in preparing and helping Women of the Bible during the Bug Safari and at the final event, the barbeque on Wednesday We also have Christian Radio, Kibble night, it was lovely to see everyone, Palace and many more to look forward families and helpers alike, getting to. Please don’t be shy; do come and together to have fun. join us. A warm welcome awaits you. The children also showed God’s BUG SAFARI love to others in a practical project which or four days in August Strathblane involved collecting school supplies to fill hand made backpacks for a little school HERITAGE Parish Church Kirkrooms were Susan Rhind Ftransformed into a tropical jungle, in Uganda. teeming with flowers, butterflies and, he speaker at the Heritage on sixty eager primary school children! Wednesday 25th October will be Through Bible stories, crafts and THE GUILD games, the children learned about God’s Isabel Brown TKevin Wilbraham from Stirling Great Big Love. Archives. Kevin will take us through the Each session began on a joyfully t is time for an autumn issue of the archives held by Stirling and will also active note as Julie Wilson led the Blane. I always enjoy perusing this advise on what records they hold children in lively praises. Thanks to a Imuch-appreciated local news pertaining to Strathblane. We hope you pretty good spell of weather, they ran magazine with its up-to-date comments will come and join us, about in the sunshine playing games in on what is, or what will be, happening Our November meeting will take the grounds and the pre school children in the village in the months to come. It the form of a quiz night to raise funds went on a Bug Hunt in the Manse is with enthusiasm that I tell you some for the refurbishment of the Village garden. Each day, too, they enjoyed a of the coming attractions for the autumn, Club. There will be general and heritage specially created snack prepared by a winter and spring syllabus. The Guild questions, so bring along some friends great team in the kitchen who worked is open to all ladies and gentlemen who to make up your team. Entry will be £5 so hard each day. They also enjoyed would care to visit or become members. per person, tea/coffee and something coming into the Bible story room to a Our meetings are in the Kirk Rooms nice to eat included. Watch out for more fresh surprise every day, whether it was every second Monday at 7.30pm, details nearer the time. Both meetings a school room, a tent from Bible times commencing October 2nd. Some of the start 7.30pm. R DICKSON CARS Private Car Hire for every Occasion

2 x 5 door Hatchbacks 6 Seater Galaxy - with Trailer mob: 07801 372735 or  01360 770040 7 THE KEEP AT DUNTREATH CASTLE Archie and Morag Roy

ost readers of The Blane will be familiar with Duntreath MCastle which is situated in the Blane Valley, about a mile north of Blanefield. It has been the home of the Edmonstone family since the mid 15th century and has been in the family’s ownership for more than 575 years. Duntreath Castle is one of a number of important historic sites in our vicinity and The Blane accepted a kind invitation from Sir Archibald and Lady Juliet Edmonstone to visit the castle and in particular to see the Keep which has been much renovated over the years. The castle and grounds are impressive and nestle in a quiet rural setting with extensive views along the Blane Valley. Nearby and to the south, are the steep wooded slopes of Dumgoyach and to the north are Dumgoyne and Dumfoyn. On a clear day the distant Ben Lomond is visible. Clockwise from above: Sir Archie Edmonstone outside The estate and lands of Duntreath the door of the Keep; the Keep; toilet facilities (still were originally part of the Earldom of used of course!); and the WWII air raid siren on the Lennox but prior to 1364 they were roof of the Keep granted to Murdoch son of Malcolm, Earl of Lennox. When Murdoch died, Although not a fully fortified tower its his daughter Isabella succeeded to the thick walls, steep spiral staircases, estate but in or before 1434, after the narrow windows and entrances would execution of Earl Duncan, James 1 made have provided some defensive security. it over to his brother-in- law, William It is a tall rectangular structure built of Edmonstone of Culloden. William’s wife irregular sandstone blocks and with walls was Lady Mary Stewart, second which are 4 ft thick. One is struck by daughter of Robert III, maintaining a the height of the doorways and entrances Royal connection as William’s father, suggesting that, although a hardy race, Sir John Edmonstone, was married to our ancestors were much smaller people Lady Isobel Stewart daughter of King than those of today. Robert II and niece of Robert the Bruce. The castle and estate remained and maintained and, although not The grant of the estate was not confirmed occupied until near the end of the 17th occupied, it is used for special occasions until 1452 when James II granted the century, when the family resided in and forms an important link with the estate a free barony. It has remained in Ireland and Duntreath was allowed to past. fall into ruin. In 1863 In its early years, the Keep Sir Archibald provided the main accommodation and Edmonstone, the consists of a ground, first and second present Sir floors. The ground floor area has a large Archibald’s great room which in earlier times would have great grandfather, been used to accommodate cattle. This restored the castle as was a common method of providing the family’s seat. security and shelter for the animals and Renovation work was had the advantage of providing some carried out over many additional warmth for the living quarters years beginning with on the upper levels. Arched ceilings are the construction of the a feature of the internal construction and existing family pay tribute to the skills of the builders. residence. Initially These skills are also evident in the this was a two storey distinctive fireplace seen in the room on building to which a the second (top) floor which, with its third was added by Sir high vaulted ceiling, has much character. Archibald’s Although much renovation work has grandfather in 1890. been carried out here, many of the By the beginning of windows are part of the original Top floor room of the keep with its distinctive fireplace the 20 th century, the construction and date from around 1450. residence was a large It is evident that considerable skill the Edmonstone family ever since. baronial mansion attached to The Keep. and ingenuity was required in the tower’s The Keep at Duntreath is all that The Edwardian additions were pulled construction and it is in remarkable remains of the original castle. Its down by the present Sir Archibald condition for such an ancient building. construction is characteristic of leaving The Keep once again as a free This is not only a testament to the 8 the latter half of the 15th century. standing building. It has been renovated continued on next page col.1 days you can only dream about. enjoying themselves. MILNDAVIE RIDING From early in the morning The horse and people were catching their horses, dog show was CENTRE SHOW bathing them and themselves in photographed by Nicci Grieve the process, to ensure they had a Carolin Seltz and the place in the tack and turnout class. Most proofs are available to he weather in this part of the world of these horses and ponies are at home view online. These are can be pretty unpredictable as you galloping across the muddy moor, so it truly stunning Tall know. Although now at the end was fantastic to see them cleaned, photographs making of a long hot summer, you probably have groomed and turned out to such a high great use of the bright wiped it from your minds, May of this standard. The riders were also required weather to provide year was as wet and miserable as ever. to spruce up for the day and many were some interesting Once again the Drymen show was unrecognisable in their show gear! reportage and portrait The day progressed shows. with some show jumping, You can contact which graduated from a Carolin directly on Earl lead rein class, through the 01389 601119 or abilities to a final 3ft class. email: After a lunch break, a [email protected]. change of pace as the fancy Details are available at: dress parade was http://www.carolinseltz.com/proofs. underway. All the ponies Fiona Aborida, and her helpers, and riders taking part would like to thank everyone who took looked fantastic and a huge part on the day; after all, no matter how effort had obviously been much planning you do, it’s not a show made. A more serious note without competitors! arrived with the pony club and riding club horse classes, and then it was time LETS HACK! for the finale of the day, the games. We are the horses of Milndavie This year the annual And hacking is our game show saw a new event as Although we sometimes go in school local dog owners were Its really not the same!! invited to take part in a fun dog show. Thanks to the With Earl and Rosco in the lead and lovely weather bringing Polo somewhere near passers by, and with some We all like to gallop fast persuasive tactics, there was but never make you fear Fancy dress pony Glen with Iona and Ewan Boulton a presentable turn out and a postponed, and here in Strathblane there range of categories meant that most went Penny’s just a little lamb were some other horsey people getting home with a rosette. A few tried the short And Spearmint is her chum nervous too. obedience test and were surprised at their Toffee’s great if you’re wee Everyone at Milndavie Riding level of control over their four legged But stear clear of his bum Centre breathed a huge sigh of relief as friends, or maybe it was the bribery of the 4th of June arrived and brought with a chew that helped, either way it was Jake’s got an eye for an arab it one of those glorious early summer nice to see so many taking part and Poppy is her name And if owner Yas is naughty That’s who she’ll always blame continued from previous page craftsmanship of the builders, but to the Attached to a corner of the roof is an air If you’re tall and need a friend ongoing renovation work and raid siren which was placed there in 1940 Pelar’s the girl for you commitment of the Edmonstone family. during the Second World War. As long as there are carrots Having said that, keeping the The gardens which cover some 20 She’ll remain true building wind and watertight must have acres have been gradually created by been, and still is, a considerable Lady Juliet who currently serves on the Ozzie’s the horse with a half a ‘tache challenge. In the depths of winter the National Trust for Scotland, The Historic His fly hating chum is Brook Keep would have been a cold, damp and House Association, and has just retired They can be rather busy draughty place in which to live. The after 30 years on the Scotland’s Garden So don’t forget to book roof of the Keep has been altered with Scheme. Her 4th TV series, presenting battlements and a parapet walk added in the garden section of BBC2’s “Castle in Shadow’s talented at games more recent times. This gives an airy the Country” is showing every day from He is a super star but breathtaking view of the adjacent late October onwards. Her expertise and Tammy’s away on her hols main residency, gardens and other flair is clearly evident in the layout and but not too far buildings. variety of plants in the attractive castle An interesting feature is the grounds. Elusive Glen and little Blue medieval solution to calls of nature. In Duntreath Castle has seen many Are the last two we shall mention two rooms there are small recesses for changes over the years and at the end of They believe they’ve worked real hard occupants to use. The offending material our visit, the overall impression of The And deserve a carrot pension would then fall through an offshoot built Keep in its present form, is the strong on the outside of The Keep, to be and lasting historical presence which it So here we are ready collected in a cart at the bottom of the gives to this quiet and idyllic setting. And wearing all our tack external wall. No doubt this would be The Blane is grateful to Sir What’s taking you so long? recycled as fertiliser. There is an object Archibald and Lady Juliet for the Let’s go for a hack on the roof of the Keep which is a relic opportunity to view the Keep at Nicci Grieve of war, but a war of more recent times. Duntreath. 9 Arabs but drew the line when a very old IT’S ALL IN THE EYE man who was one of her patients, was about to be discharged, demanded to see Bill Woodger moved or didn’t move in the hospital the doctor. Nothing would deter him so wards for a salary of about £8 per month Mary eventually called the doctor up to his is an article about someone (1954). It’s interesting to note the wards the ward, apologising for wasting the who didn’t excel in the all had open fires in those days. doctor’s precious time. It transpired the Tclassrooms of her youth, but put It is at this point I really began to patient fancied Mary and wanted to offer so much into our society in her chosen see the amazing focus Mary brought to the doctor 12 pigeons as a swap for her. career. her life. Somehow she managed to fit in (Seems a fair deal to me.) Mary Kirton tells many stories to a self-education programme and taught A serious illness contracted in the highlight her school years. The best was herself to read and write properly. being congratulated by a short sighted As an aside, she also told me that the friend on one of her subject results in accordion and the organ were just two her end of term exams. This had given of the various musical instruments she her 25 out of 25. Unfortunately this was learnt to play, and now plays violin her class position, not her score. Her with the Bearsden Fiddlers!!! teacher then advised her to leave school Mary then left nursing to take as soon as possible, and get a man who a theology course at the Faith Mission could afford to look after her! Bible College in Edinburgh. This was Staying a wee while longer on to enable her to fulfil a missionary Mary’s school days……. Did she have nursing role. This was another four a tough time or did she have a tough years of very hard work. On top of time!? studies, students had to help with all Can you imagine having to walk aspects of the College upkeep, 3 miles to school every day (and three including keeping it clean. miles home again). The school was at With Mary’s now established Muirland on Loch Lomond. Mary’s modesty, she advised me her success family, plus another, had been housed at graduating was down to her two in Rossdhu House (now Loch Lomond specialist subjects – Minor Prophets Golf Club) after being blitzed out of and Church History (eat your heart Clydebank. If it snowed, or rained out Magnus!) Armed with her new Mary Kirton heavily, they normally went barefoot to extended skills Mary applied to go save their shoes. At school (there was into general nurse training. She was first year of this Middle East adventure only one room) the teacher ‘had it in’ initially turned down due to her was overcome, however Mary never for the two families staying at Rossdhu ‘inadequate education’. really fully recovered and after four House. For the least misdemeanour they I will skip over the next six years years had to return home in 1971. would be lined up ‘for six of the best’. – three years back in Glasgow Eye The hospital system in the UK is Mary’s brother, Eric, had worked out Infirmary to gain two more certificates hard to fathom, as Mary, with all her that if he went to the end of the queue, and three years in Ayr, finishing at long qualifications and experience, had to the teacher would be tiring by the time last, with the RGN she coveted so much. accept a post as a first year staff nurse he was reached. We are talking about 5 It was at this stage that Mary’s when she joined Canniesburn Hospital or 6 kids here; no chance; Eric got seven career began to accelerate. She applied Eye Department. It was hard to settle of the best for his cheek. Eric then tried to, and was accepted by, Moorfield Eye but eventually she did and spent 10 years the front of the queue – he still got seven. Hospital in London. Moorfield was, and there. Was this the cause of Mary’s lack still is, a world leading hospital in After Canniesburn, Mary took a of academic ability? No - Mary had ophthalmics. Qualifying for the teaching post at Gartnavel, lecturing major sight problems throughout her Moorfield Diploma and the OND within nurses studying for the Ophthalmic childhood and this was the main reason her first year, Mary was promoted to Nursing Diploma. While preparing her for her inability to progress at school. Charge Nurse. Further promotion to lecture notes she began building up a lot She left, unable to read or write very Sister came before her second year at of material. I will call these notes ‘Mary well. Moorfield was completed. Guess what? Kirton’s methods for Ophthalmic Mary was on the move again, big time. Nursing’. This material was highly n Ophthalmologist, Archie Wright Next stop Jerusalem with the regarded by students and staff. However, AThomson, (who lived in Order of St John of Jerusalem who have it was suspected that there was a risk of Netherblane and, latterly Blanefield an eye hospital there. Her timing was them being ‘pirated’ and published House) came into Mary’s life and took ‘rubbish’ as her arrival in the Middle commercially by a third party. To an interest in her condition. He carried East coincided with the Six Day War in prevent this happening, Mary out a series of operations and succeeded 1967. Being with the Order of St John approached the medical publishers in giving Mary fairly good sight in both came ‘army type rankings’ and Mary had Balliere Tindall, met the nursing editor eyes. Special lenses made vision very three pips, denoting a Captaincy. over a meal, and the foundations of a good. However, she was oblivious of her rank, book by Mary were laid. This was a pivotal time in her life and on her arrival, ignored repeated Another Mary anecdote - a friend and Archie became a lifelong hero. He requests over the Airport PA system for was staying with Mary and her mum. then encouraged her when she decided, Captain Kirton to report to the The friend had an artificial eye; over at the age of 19, that ophthalmic nursing Information desk. breakfast Mary asked the friend if he was to be her future life. With no school would mind being photographed with the qualifications, all that was open to Mary t would not be politically correct to eye in, and then the eye out, for inclusion was auxiliary nursing in Glasgow Eye Isay too much of the hardships Mary in the forthcoming book. It wasn’t made Infirmary. She moved to the Nurses’ endured during those troubled times in clear at what stage of breakfast the Home where strict rules were enforced the Middle East, especially when the war request was made. (no men allowed naturally) one of which swept around and through her hospital, Moving on... Mary next became was ‘lights out, and in bed, by 10pm but Mary hung in there. (By the way - an External Examiner for the Ophthalmic every night’ including Mary learnt Arabic. After all her patients Nursing Board. (She was christened the 10 Hogmanay. She spent nearly two were Arabs - so it was a natural thing to years cleaning everything that do!). She loved her job and loved the Continued on next page col.1 Continued from previous page ‘Mad Scotswoman’ by the students at GRUMPY OLD MEN Liverpool.) All Nursing Boards were being scrapped and Mary was transferred Bob Sharp change has to be preceded by attitude to Glasgow Eye Infirmary. The wheel change and that often takes a very long had now turned full circle as Mary was ver the years people have voiced time. Indeed, it might take generations. back to where it all started, but now as their concerns in the Blane on a I suspect that many of the present Sister in Charge of the Infirmary. Her Owide number of topics of interest problems we see in the village are book on Ophthalmic Nursing was to the local community – litter, speeding symptomatic of society as a whole. published in 1987. cars, dog fouling, attitude of youths, Selfishness, disrespect for others, rights Mary unfortunately had to retire footpath maintenance and so on. What without responsibilities etc, may well early through ill health. On her return good does this do? Does it make any have their roots in the self-centred to Scotland she involved herself in the difference? Will matters improve? culture generated in the 1980s. If it has Allander Evangelical Church in Well, I suspect that the ‘guilty’ persons taken society 25 years to exhibit the poor Milngavie and writes the ‘mission news’ probably take little heed, whilst others behaviour we see today, then it may take for the church every week. might be quite dismissive when reading the same period to reverse matters. The final anecdote to Mary’s story is a cracker— At her farewell party her how others feel about their behaviour. But here’s the solution. What goes colleagues in the hospital had brought a So, what is the point in ranting and around comes around! Life is cyclical. very special doctor out of retirement to raving? Well it might help relieve the Things invariably return to their starting make the formal presentation to Mary. frustration of those who take the time point. I’m confident that the many petty It was her hero from ‘twiddley dee’ years and care to offer their views; and it problems we experience in the village ago, Archie Wright Thomson, who had may help confirm what many others in will fade with time and cease to be an originally helped her regain good sight the local community think. Further, it annoyance. There may even be a lull and been so instrumental in launching might help stimulate small-scale action. and temporary Utopia will descend on her career in ophthalmic nursing. For example, if the problem of dog the village. However, more likely will fouling is mentioned enough times over be the emergence of the problems we Postscript a long period then perhaps one or two saw in the 1980s and earlier. Can My sincere thanks to Mary for a people might do something about it. The anyone remember what they were and wonderful afternoon listening to her ultimate goal, of course, is to change hence what we have to look forward to? reminiscences. Also my apologies to her the inappropriate behaviour of a small Are there any other grumpy old for not covering all the moving and number of people for the overall benefit men out there? If so, let us hear from humorous anecdotes she related to me. of the community. However, behaviour you. Also my thanks to Andrea MacLean for ‘chaperoning’ me and helping with questions. I’m sure Mary felt safer with Andrea beside her! SAFER ROUTES TO SCHOOL CROSSING PROPOSAL tirling Council is proposing to utilise the carpark of the Kirkhouse SInn (with their kind permission) to relieve the congestion at the Primary School during the drop off and pick up times. While it will still be possible to drop children off at the school itself, there are restrictions to prevent parking and these will now be enforced. The

kerbs for prams and buggies. The to allow for comments from the public. preferred option has been withdrawn The plan is in the library. proposal is to create a well lit ramp from because of lack of funds. This involved If you wish to respond, you can the car park and install a central island bringing a path down from the carpark either contact Jennifer Cunningham, with drop kerbs, lit bollards and to the zebra crossing. headteacher, on 770608, or Robert associated markings to warn drivers. At The original date for responses Flashman, community councillor, the junction of Kirkburn Road and was 15th September but the Community on 770979. This needs to be done Southview Road, there will be drop Council has obtained a brief extension very quickly. 11 COMMONWEALTH VILLAGE Jude Gregor friends etc there, and so we all socialised both during he Commonwealth Games took the rugby tournament and place in Melbourne in March and with the boys in the Tthe inhabitants of Strathblane/ following days. The Blanefield were well represented. Australians of course are Our son, Colin, was a member of sport-mad, and so everyone the Rugby 7s squad and so my husband chatted to us – on the trams, Al and I went out as proud parents. in the pubs, going in and Unfortunately the Rugby team under- out of the stadium. performed and were all bitterly As you will have read disappointed. Even more unfortunately, in the last issue of the Blane, Colin – or ‘Budgie’ as he’s known to Dr Pugh was one of the the rugby world – suffered a neck injury medical team. His family in the 2nd game and so played very little left the village 12 hours part in the rest of the Games – a huge after us to fly out – not a ‘let-down’ after all the preparation, significant fact in itself, excitement and expectation. Though I except that in those hours must say, it was a proud moment several feet of snow fell! watching our ‘little boy’ run out onto Our journey was fine, but the pitch in the Telstra Dome. However, theirs was rather traumatic the boys bounced back and certainly and delayed. We stayed in the same hotel enjoyed themselves, especially as their as them and I’m still amazed at how they Competitors’ ID allowed them entry to all looked so fresh at breakfast 2 hours the other events. For them it was a after arriving. unique experience. Colin is used to The hotel was another highlight. travelling the world, staying in good It was the designated ‘Scottish Centre’, hotels with teams from all the best rugby and so there was always something going nations (unfortunately for Scotland, on – late night celebrations, press almost all in the Commonwealth), but conferences, Alan Wells and Gavin ‘sharing accommodation’ – whatever Hastings wandering round as that may mean – with Lady Bowlers was ‘ambassadors’, Fred Macaulay and John something new! They were great fun, Beattie doing their radio shows – and with a good sense of humour, and the all stopping to chat over breakfast about boys were amused and intrigued by the the rugby. There were also photo shoots Colin Gregor in a training session (top) Ladies’ attitude, one of them being with all these blonde, bronzed quoted as saying ‘after all, we’re not swimmers….. and with proud Mum, Jude. athletes’ as she tucked into another glass A major highlight for us was the of wine and insisted the team minibus arrival of Irene and Graham Durant in over a brown snake……or deadly spiders stopped for them to get off for a Melbourne. It was lovely to see them in the basement of their house…. cigarette! But it was a different matter both and particularly good to see them Although they were mainly keen to go when the boys were challenged to a in their new home environment. They to see the hockey, we met up several practice game of bowls – they then are both obviously thoroughly enjoying times, and even managed a tour of realised why these ladies were attending life ‘down-under’; Graham’s job seems Melbourne’s botanical gardens – with their 4th Games and keep on winning to be going from strength to strength, Graham as a guide it was fascinating. medals. and he has acquired a very good Yet another few days later, As parents we also had an knowledge of Australian wine! Though Maureen and Davey Thorburn arrived. unforgettable experience. There were I wasn’t quite so impressed by Irene’s Davey was representing the Clydesdale lots of parents, wives, girlfriends, story of going for a bike ride and cycling Bank, sponsors of the Games. I’m sure it must have been rather strange for them to spend their first lunchtime in CORE PATHS SURVEY Melbourne with friends from the village! Although we only overlapped by a HAVE YOUR SAY couple of days, they managed to meet o you walk, ride, cycle or boat been running for the past up with the Durants a lot, and stayed in and around the Stirling Council 8 years. Now they need with them in Canberra after the Games. D(SC) area, especially in and to know whether we Sadly we were homeward bound at this around our village? Then have your say think they have chosen point, after a fantastic holiday, and on the routes you use for these activities. the right paths or not. definitely impressed by the SC Countryside Service is in the If you would like to take part in representation from the small community midst of preparing a plan showing the this survey, please complete the online we live in. network of paths that local people and questionnaire at: www.stirling.gov.uk/ One final point – Colin’s rugby visitors use when out and about in the countryside or contact SC for a copy has moved on (from his days as captain countryside. This is known officially as on 01786 442971. of Balfron High and initiation into senior The Core Paths Plan and the council has The first draft of the plan is rugby with Strathendrick), and he has the legal duty (under the Land Reform available for comment in the library. signed a contract with Glasgow (Scotland) Act 2003) to produce a draft There are also copies of the Paths and Warriors. They play their home games by February 2008. Countryside Access Survey 06/07 for us at Hughenden and are in need of as The first stab at producing the draft to complete and give our views. much support as possible. So, although plan has been done by the intrepid An opportunity to meet the officers rugby is a ‘2nd sport’ in this part of the Access Officers and Countryside and discuss the plan for our area is world, I would urge anyone even Rangers using the results of the organised for the 22nd November at 2- vaguely interested to go and give them 12 Community Paths Project that has 5pm and 6-9pm in the Edmonstone Hall. your support on a Friday evening. FITNESS CLASSES MOONWALK Lesley Kirk EPIC NIGHT WALK s this edition of RAISES £2000 FOR A‘The Blane’ goes BREAST CANCER to print, the ladies of The Fitness League CHARITY Class are Val McCorquodale a l r e a d y preparing for the n June 24th a group of us start of the new season. hit the road and headed for Although the work is ‘aerobic’ ie Othe Capital to take part in physical exercise that will get your heart this year's MOONWALK, a 26 and blood vessels working, our regime mile power walk organised by is gentle stretching, mobilising and Breast Cancer Research. Over toning of the body. We pay particular 8000 walkers took part including their star guest attention to your central control (posture) Lorraine Kelly doing her 5th moonwalk, delighted which has been the basis of our exercises that at long last the event was being held north of the for over 75 years. Today a great number border. Playtex had provided bras suitable for walkers of people refer to this as your ‘Core to all the participants; even the men walkers were wearing the obligatory bra - not a pretty sight in most Stability’. This will be the second year the cases! After lavish applications of class has been operating and at present vaseline (to the feet), a vigorous we have a small number of very friendly warm-up in a very pink marquee, Moonwalkers (top): Elizabeth Hood, individuals who make the class fun, and a few "just in case" visits to the Helen Retson, Val MacCorquodale, Amanda they would be delighted if you could portaloos, the group set off from Hutchison, Hazel Campbell & Deirdre Howell; come along and join them. At present The Meadows at midnight. The there is no need to reserve your floor temperature was ideal for a long (below) Manon Van Nimwegen & Kate O’Neil. space as there is plenty of room, but we walk and, surprisingly, walking Lesley Sherwood (not pictured - modesty hope that numbers will increase as the overnight and staying awake whilst forbad?) also took part. word spreads. doing it didn't prove to be the The classes are led by a fully problem we had anticipated. The Royal Mile's Saturday night revellers were most trained Fitness League Teacher and are enthusiastic. They came out on to the streets to offer words of encouragement - held on Tuesday evenings at 7.30pm till who said Edinburgh folk weren't friendly? 8.30pm in the gym hall of Strathblane By 7.30 that morning our group had all crossed the finishing line, Compeed Primary School. (blister kit) intact inside the bumbag, having raised almost £2000 for the charity, Come along and give the class a and every one of us saying, "NEVER AGAIN!!" try, you can enjoy your first class free. But you never know... So if you spot any of these gals at 3-4am on a Saturday, For further details contact Lesley Sunday staggering along the roadside, you'll know it’s perfectly innocent - they've on 0141 776 1536 or 07780 921458. changed their minds and they're in training for next year's event!... LADIES GLASGOW 10K Bill Woodger

s a wee postscript to the June coverage in the Blane, it always takes a few weeks for the participants to Agather the sponsorship money from friends and colleagues. At the end of June most of the 38 runners gathered for a Champagne Supper and the total was announced. It was over £6,500. An amazing amount of money which will go towards finding the elusive cure for Breast Cancer. Do you want to help the White Lily Fund raise cash to help in Breast Cancer Research? If you want to be part of next year’s White Lily Team just contact me on 770940. If that’s a bit energetic for you then all donations are very welcome. JUDO Avril Sandilands

he judo class in Strathblane takes place in the Scout Hall on a Friday night from 7pm until 8pm. It is for Tboys and girls age 5 years and upwards. Senior coach is Brian Long. Interested? Then come along and try - first class is free! It's a great way of getting fit while having fun! Time and day not suit? Then there are other classes, times and venues available; just call Brian on 07974377353. 13 MOUNT MCKINLEY EXPEDITION continued from page 1 have a drink with them. As they pass over the glass we notice wind up there, the Polar Express. You that the ends of their fingers are hear this coming for thirty seconds or black with frostbite. Aren’t they so, not like a steam engine with a friendly worried about their fingers we and warm chug, but more of the brutality ask? Oh they’ll be fine they say, of a diesel engine that finally hits your drink with us. Their story comes tent trying to rip and squash it. One gust out. They had left the day before bends our tent poles down and the outer us and camped at 17,500 on the of the tent rips in protest. One hundred ridge, but their gas stove had and fifteen miles an hour wind and our frozen so they had no food or tent rips. There’s not much we can do water. They got up in the but hope that the wind will leave us alone morning and pushed on, getting soon so we can fix this. In the meantime to the top early afternoon then we put a rucsac in front of the rip and descending to drink the wine hope that this show of defiance will be and celebrate. Next day they’re enough for the wind to leave us alone. getting more worried about their fingers, we give them some e try once again from 14,500 foot medication and tell them to keep camp to access the West Rib route W the hands clean. We meet them at half height. A wonderful climb takes in Talkeetna, the stopping off us to the Rib itself where we meet the point for access to the mountain, Polar Express’s little brother. I take off after we descend and return to my glove to take a picture and instantly humanity. “Look, look” I hear loose all feeling. This mountain won’t in one of the tourist gift shops. even give in to let you take pictures. I It’s one of our Slovenian friends turn a corner in the ridge and come upon taking off his lint gloves to show a rock platform littered with human me his fingers. The index and faeces. Why should the mountain tolerate middle finger of his right hand us when we behave this way? Denali Towing a sledge with supplies are obviously dead, the ring means ‘Great One’ to the native finger has a great big blister so will Alaskans, this means so much more to FOR LESSER probably survive. He has tears in his eyes them that simply the size implications as he shows me these, “I don’t know we take from it. We try to climb the MORTALS - WALK what I’ll do” he says. He now realises Rib, but chest deep snow combined with disability was too much of a price to pay. ABOUT WEST the wind forces us down. We meet five Romanians on their way up as we STIRLINGSHIRE as it worth it? Denali is a beautiful descend; we describe the conditions and  I want to become more active but mountain and it was a wonderful weather to them. “We have checked the W where do I start? experience to have the chance to climb weather forecast, prognosis is good.” I’d like to start walking but I don’t it. The views were amazing and the They continue up, only for us to rush want to walk on my own? climbing, especially on the West Rib, out of camp to help them on their descent were a real joy. I always felt in control, a day and a half later after they had sat If these two thoughts are familiar and it was great to meet the many out the latest storm on the rib. We had to you PLEASE READ ON. nationalities who go to the mountain. But spotted them coming down, they would the popularity of Denali is also its walk so far then suddenly collapse as alk About Stirling is part of the downfall. I stood on it and looked at the though pole axed, each man in turn doing Wnational Paths to Health project many mountains that surround it, most which supports local groups to promote this. When we got to them we counted of them with no one on them and routes walking in the community. Weekly only four. “Where is the other guy?” that you could climb knowing no one walks in the rural areas have been “Oh, back there, he’ll be okay.” Why had been that way before. Yet we had, organised and schedules detailing the had they left him? We could not like so many others, been lured by the walks and meeting points are available comprehend this but had the two days height, by the promise of telling in the Surgery and displayed in the local on the rib turned this into every man for everyone we’d been up Mount shops. himself? McKinley. We had not succumbed, as The walks usually last for We make plans for our summit so many had, to summit fever. What approximately 45 minutes – 1 hour, are attempt. A small weather window has matters in the mountains is that you are tailored to suit different levels of fitness opened up before a big ‘weather event’ and medical conditions, and are led by happy and come back safe and unhurt. would arrive coming in from the Baring a trained Walk Leader. They are free The mountain will give you a great Straits. We make a midnight dash for and a cup of tea or coffee after the walk experience, but you have to treat it with the top. We didn’t reckon on minus fifty. provides further opportunity for respect, otherwise it may claim its Ian manages to get a bit higher on the socialising (no cakes!). On 21st of forfeit. There is a well known climbing ridge than me, but with all source of September, for example, there is a walk saying about expeditions: ‘First come energy frozen and his breath freezing around Mugdock Park. back alive, second come back friends, on his face he too descends. “It wasn’t Whether you are looking to then if you are successful that is good a hard decision” he says, his face tells improve your health or just get out and too.’ me of a man totally spent. We sleep and about and meet new people, the walks (Martin is a resident of Blanefield and give everyone the chance to join a eat then late evening we hear shouts from is a member of the Lomond Mountain friendly group of people for some gentle the group camped beside us, a group of exercise and a good chat. experienced Slovenians. They call us Rescue Team. See Mountain Rescue article in the June issue of the Blane. For more information please over, wide smiles on their faces telling contact Tricia Cumming on 850570 A fuller account of the expedition us they had pushed through the mob: 07717544773, e-mail: cold. They have a small bottle of appeared in the Herald Magazine on [email protected] or contact 14 Australian red wine and insist we Saturday 19th August - Ed) the surgery. word. Here was the unconscious but soon came to. He made MOUNTAIN RESCUE second lesson Tom him secure, then went down to a cottage taught me, albeit too by the track and summoned help in the TEAM UPDATE late. By that time, I form of SMC members in Glasgow had completed my including Mr. Sandy Cousins. This round but, looking group had no mountain stretcher and back, I wish I apparently contacted various places in hadn’t. It would search of one. As a result a telephone have been nice to call came through to Lomond MRT savour a few final (whose committee happened to be in peaks, climbing session) at 9.45pm. The call was not at them on special all clear; the speaker said a man (no occasions and name given) had fallen on Ben A’An and perhaps saving the asked if the team had a mountain last one for my final stretcher. He was told “yes”, then said day in the mountains something about their being contacted – maybe a one-way later and rang off. From queries made Bob Sharp ticket!! since, it seemed that a call from Glasgow But read on Police with the query about a stretcher any readers will know that Tom and find out about Tom’s rescue back was made to Drymen police station in Weir passed away in early July in the early ‘70s. This account was the absence of both policemen stationed Mthis year. Tom was a climber, penned by the Team’s secretary of the there, and the caller spoke to a member author and naturalist and stood for all day, Stanley Smith. The Team had been the good things we see, hear and know operational for only a couple of years about the Scottish hills and glens. When and was little known in the area. As the Lomond Team’s rescue base was you will read, Tom’s climbing club opened last year, Tom and his wife were colleagues were rather suspicious of the invited along. Tom had long been a Team’s ability! supporter of the Team’s efforts and, indeed, was one of its first ever TOM’S RECUE casualties. Tom was unable to be present but his wife Rhona told us he wanted to Name of Casualty: Mr. Thomas Weir turn up. He was aware of his frailty at Address: Fir Tree Cottage, the time and very frustrated. In the last Gartocharn, Dunbartonshire few months of his life he was distraught Nationality: British that he couldn’t leave his home to Name of Club: The SMC explore the hills once more. Degree of Experience: Very great I met Tom Weir on two occasions. Details of group: Mr. Weir (leading) Both times were in the mountains. In and Mr. Leonard Lovat – both 1981 I was taking a couple of students of the SMC to climb ‘Right Angle Direct’ on the Date of accident: 16th June 1970 Cobbler. We left the Succoth car park Time of accident: 8– 8.30 pm at breakneck speed only to find we Weather conditions: Clear and fine needed a good rest about half way up Location of accident: Below summit the pipe track. As we puffed, panted wall of Ben A’An and wheezed, a group of older men Equipment: PA climbing slippers passed by. Tom was out for a day’s Clothing: Normal for climbing walk to celebrate the 75th birthday of one Injuries: Abrasions, cracked ribs, of his friends. As the climb continued, squashed and chipped vertebrae, our hasty progress was punctuated with cracked hip Tom Weir, who died recently lengthy rests. At each halt, Tom and his mates passed by. Each time they Mr. Weir and Mr. Lovat were of the family of one of them. Apparently looked no worse for their efforts and doing a 100ft. single pitch climb starting it would be this person who made the muttered away with great gusto and with a 12ft. overhang, on the last stretch call to Lomond MRT. Nothing more humour. My group arrived at the of wall leading to the summit of Ben was heard until 11.25/11.30pm when a summit totally knackered. Tom and his A’An. Mr. Weir led up to the belay at call came from one of the constables at men arrived 10 minutes behind, each the top, which is a very small spike, and Drymen station, saying that Mr. Weir looking fresh as a daisy. A salutary prepared to belay using a short sling of had fallen on Ben A’An and a friend of lesson in pacing was learned that day. No. 2 rope. His attention had been taken his, Mr. Sandy Cousins, was at the The next time I met him was on by a peregrine falcon nearby – of interest station asking if the Team’s stretcher the summit of Ben Lomond one beautiful to a naturalist like himself – and he could be delivered to him at Drymen spring day. I arrived about 9 o’clock accidentally dislodged the sling which Square (a few hundred yards from the but Tom had already been there a long dropped down out of reach (found later station). He added that there were nine time. The two of us relaxed on the soft at the foot of the climb). He then made men on the hill, and only the stretcher meadow grass facing east towards the belay with the climbing rope and Mr. was required, not the rescue team. The Comer Farm and I raised the subject of Lovat started the climb. He came off Lomond MRT leader sent a message Munro-bagging. He turned and on the overhang however with a back that the stretcher would be got there eyeballed me quite seriously. “You handhold breaking and his weight right away but two team members must know” he said, “I have four Munros to coming on Mr. Weir pulled the belay go with it. The team leader and one climb, but I’m not going to do them. I off the small spike. Mr Weir fell down other member got moving and loaded want to be remembered as the man who the rock face, through the air over Mr. up the stretcher and other gear and were didn’t do the Munros”. What a notion. Lovat at the foot of the overhang, and on the square by 11.45pm. The party To get that far and then pull back at the landed on and slid down the steep heather then went together to Ben A’An. On final hurdle. I never got to find out if slope below, where Mr. Lovat stopped arrival at the foot of the track they he did complete the Munros. I hope he him with the rope. The latter got down didn’t because I felt he was a man of his the slope to Mr. Weir who was cont’d on next page col.1 15 resulted in Mr. Weir reaching hospital MOUNTAIN RESCUE two to three hours later than need have COMMUNITY continued from previous page been the case and to a broken and unsound stretcher being used on the GRANT heard that a stretcher was on the way mountain. Also, had Lomond MRT Alastair Smith up, so taking the Team’s other material carried out the evacuation it would, but leaving their own stretcher behind, pretty certainly, have been done by n the last edition they went up and joined the group on lowering the stretcher to where Mr. Weir of the Blane there the accident site at the top of the heather lay (or knelt) and transferring him to it Iwas a request for slope. There were then about twelve there, so avoiding the agonizing pain of suggestions on what to spend the £1,000 present including the two Lomond team the carry (so described to the writer by community grant that the Local members. The time was now 1am. For Mr. Weir 40 hours later) and possible Community Council had received. At the evacuation, Mr Weir was helped on harm resulting. the meeting held at the end of July it to Tom MacKinnons back who, aided While it is understandable that the was decided to split the monies between by ropes, carried him up to the stretcher first thought of the members of the SMC two projects. As the Village Club is on which he was strapped by the two would be for themselves to succour their now a registered place where marriages LMRT members, then carried down the old friend and fellow member after his can be held, there was a consensus that track to the roadway, reached at about accident and injury, it surely needs to it should get our support and help in its 3.10am. Transfer to ambulance, drive be brought out in some way that the modernisation and £500 was voted for to Stirling etc. got Mr Weir into hospital it. The remaining £500 will be spent on services of the local mountain rescue replacing the Community Council’s by 4.30am. team can hardly be other than the most notice board outside the library. The A marked feature of this operation effective means available for getting present one is old and has become very was the reluctance of the organisers to casualties safely and rapidly off the difficult to use. use the services of the district mountain mountain and down to road transport. As well as £1000 being made rescue team. Until the SMC group came The team is trained, equipped and available to every Community Council, to realise on Ben A’An that the two organised for this purpose, on immediate there is also £29,800 to be spent by the Lomond MRT members knew their call, located in the mountain area, and local “cluster” of 12 Community business, the team was kept at arm’s in close liaison with the police and other Councils. At a meeting in May of these length, it having been made clear early local bodies. The circumstances in this Community Councils, a proposal was on that the team’s stretcher was required case, that friends of the injured man who made to split the money equally between but not the team. From then on the team were of very high mountaineering each of the Community Councils for members took an increasing part in the standard, were available, does not really them to do with their share as they would evacuation. As will be seen from the alter the position; there is no lack of quite wish. This was defeated, the feeling of account above the organiser’s reluctance adequate climbing capacity in the team. those present being that the sum of money was large enough to be spent effectively on a project that could serve all the councils. STRATHENDRICK RUGBY CLUB Pam Campbell, (Stirling Council Rural Development Worker) condensed TRATHENDRICKRUGBY all the suggestions received into a choice CLUB is based at Fintry Sports of 5 combinations. These included more S Club and welcomes new speed monitoring equipment; Youth members of all ages and levels of programme work, The Endrick Trail, experience. The ground is one of the Fire Cadets, and some money for each most attractive in the country – on a Community. bright day – but more than a few The overwhelming wish of the visiting squads find it intimidating on cluster of Community Councils was that the majority of the money (£21600) be a bleak, wet afternoon! Although only spent on more speed monitoring a junior club, ‘Endrick is a busy, equipment and £680 be given to each ambitious outfit with fantastic facilities Community Council. The monitoring and a noble tradition of “punching equipment to be bought will probably above its weight”.Youth development be a mixture of more “speed heads” for is central to the Club’s policies. the fixed poles dotted around the villages Minis: meet on Sundays from and truly portable temporary speed the first weekend in September. signs. Robert Flashman will be our Teams are run for P3 - P7 age groups representative on the “Area Community with a programme of training, Group” that will decide on exactly how matches, tournaments, visits to the £21600 will be spent. internationals and social events. For That leaves us to decide what the further details contact Iain Somerville £680 is to be spent on. I can see the on 550842 : all players, new and at the superb facilities at Fintry (pitches, treasurer’s eyes light up again, but all experienced, and parents are welcome. changing rooms, bar and gym). Fixtures suggestions will be considered. Midis: Strathendrick will be are on Saturdays: new players are always Suggestions, as usual, to your local running an S1/2 team and an Under 16s welcome; as are supporters and social Community Councillor, or into the Community Council Suggestion Box for S3 &4 boys this season. Training is members. held in the library. on Wednesday evenings at Fintry with The Club, as you would expect, training or matches on Sundays. The also has a “lively” social scene with both Club collaborates closely with Balfron formal events (Annual Dinner Dance, COMMUNITY High School co-ordinating coaching, President’s Dinner, fundraisers, tours, player development, competitions and visits to internationals and a Sevens COUNCIL ELECTIONS touring. For further information contact Tournament) and informal “sessions”! There will be community council Andy Summers on 0783 4199236. So whatever your age, experience, elections in October this year. Seniors: the 1st XV and 2nd XV ability or gender – if you’d like to get Application forms, and information play in their respective National involved you’d be more than welcome. may be had from Helen Geddes Leagues. Training is on Tuesday For further information contact Nick Community Council Support 16 and Thursday evenings at 7pm, Hawkins on 550576. Officer on 01786 442759. couple of months for the applications to AUSTRALIAN CITIZENSHIP be approved it took 2 days for Graham’s to be approved, a couple of weeks for Irene Durant Ben’s, but I was obviously not such a good catch as mine took a few weeks raham, Ben and I longer! have been in We had our own private GAustralia for just ceremony, which was held at Questacon over three years now. We (The National Science and Technology still miss a great many things Centre) where Graham is Director. We from our life in Strathblane invited friends, work colleagues and especially friends and the some of Ben’s friends from University, great sense of community we and his girlfriend Tegan also came. I had when we lived there. I have to admit that we were all nervous, was reminded yet again including Graham, but we had a fantastic when I visited in May just time. how beautiful the The ceremony is rather like a countryside is, especially wedding; the government official when driving down Cuilt Irene, Graham and Ben Durant celebrate becoming explains why you are all there, you take Brae into the village. Australian citizens your vows, we all sang the Australian We did however make National Anthem which I had spent the a big decision at the end of last year and compulsory) and serve on a jury if called entire morning learning, although only applied for Australian citizenship; a upon. the first verse. Photographs were taken decision made easier by the fact that you One of the privileges is to have an and we were given some wonderful can keep dual citizenship. Australian passport and it seemed strange presents from friends and the usual gift You are eligible to apply for using it rather than the British one when of a tree from the government. We citizenship after being a permanent I travelled to the UK. I did enjoy now have to find a spot in the garden, resident for two years. You fill in the walking past all the queues at Sydney which will take a tree that can grow to appropriate paper work and attend an airport on my return holding my passport 60 feet tall!! interview with a government official at in one hand and the jar of Marmite I After an afternoon tea of the usual which you are expected to know your was declaring in the other. Australian party fare including duties and privileges of being an It took a couple of months for the lamingtons and Anzac biscuits, we went Australian citizen - which basically applications to be approved and then we home to a barby of prawns and lamb means that you will obey the laws, had to wait for the citizenship ceremony washed down with some rather fine red defend the country, vote (which is to be arranged. When I say it took a wine. OUT OF SCHOOL CARE 5K & 10K Helen (Lyn) Kelly The winner of the 10k event was village for working parents in particular Benny Mclaughlin and the runner up was and runs throughout the school term, he rain on Sunday 20th August did John Kennedy of Blanefield. The first Monday to Friday, and is open till 6pm, not dampen the spirits of the woman back was Val Houston of Fintry. and during school holidays is open from Trunners in the 5k and 10k races or In the 5k race the winner was Jill O’Neill 8am till 6pm. For further details phone of the spectators who bravely turned up and runner up was Marian Kelly, both 770771. to watch and to cheer. The races were of Garscube harriers. Helen Kelly with Dr David Pugh and run to raise funds for the Out of School It was not a route for personal Club. bests with its undulating course running John Watson and, below, the start. There were some very generous along the foot of the Campsies to just sponsors including John Watson who past Dumgoyne peak and back; superb donated £500; Dr Pugh who gave £100 views on a beautiful day! Well, maybe from the surgery as they are keen to next year! support healthy lifestyle events; and The out of school club has had its Cambell Dallas, accountants, who gave very successful first year but the race a cheque for £250. Water came from was to raise funds to help get it on to a Green Core Mineral Water (formerly more sound financial footing. It has Campsie Springs). We also had prizes charity status and is non-profit making, donated: local artist, Lynn Lyndsey, helping to keep costs to parents at a very gave us four pictures of Dumgoyne; reasonable level. It is a huge asset to the Glengoyne distillery gave some whisky; Bill Thompson donated a Falconry day; and Pestle and Mortar donated wine. We want to thank all of these for their generosity. Although runners came from many places, it was still very much a local event. Special thanks must go to the group of parents who put a huge amount of time and energy into organising the event, in particular Paul Fisher, Jonathon Owens and Ruth Wilson. A thank you also to Val McCorquodale for doing the warm up, John Muir and his pipers and drummers for their fantastic playing and for adding a real sense of occasion to the event; and to the mountain rescue team for marshalling and helping to take all the supplies up the hill. Fortunately no one needed to be rescued! 17 LETTER TO THE EDITOR GLORIOUS GARDENS: 11 Braemar Road Inchinnan GLENWHAN AND DUNTREATH Renfrew PA4 9PS Mary Brailey stall, which boasted lots of unusual plants. Altogether an enthralling visit, Lilian Law (née Wallace) fter an inauspicious start with the and a highlight of the year. weather, the gardening club The sun also shone on the club’s eferring to Mrs G Dyer’s letter Aenjoyed a truly inspiring day at other summer visit, in early June, which in the June issue of “the Blane”, Glenwhan Gardens near Stranraer in was to the gardens at Duntreath Castle Rregarding the Dumbrock Moor, I July. as guests of Lady Julia Edmonstone. agree with every word, it was a magical Despite the excellent coffee they Lady Julia gave members a guided tour, place, we spent many happy hours had enjoyed during their stop at Hansel and explained the background to a TV picnicing by the “Tea leaf burn”, then Village, their spirits were sinking as the series being made about Castles and wearing ourselves and our clothes out bus ploughed on Gardens, which she is involved with. on the “Gowk Stane”, happy days, so through thickening The gardens were looking spectacular, my friend Archie McCallum (Canada) haar. On arrival and of particular interest was the area remarked recently, “the Blane Valley the gardens, along the burn, which was used for was our play ground”, how true. being high-set, entertaining royalty in the times of were wrapped in Edward VII and which is now being cloud. But thanks restored. After the tour, the club was to painfully slow entertained to tea in the kitchen. Another service in the café, by hugely enjoyable trip. the time the coffee had The club’s new session starts on finally been downed the mist was rising, 29 September, with a talk by Ian Dougal heralding a glorious day which showed on ‘Plants to Try in Your Garden’. We the gardens off at their magnificent best. look forward to seeing everyone back This 12 acre garden is set off by water, after a good summer’s gardening, and with a loch at either end. One or two new members are especially welcome. plants – a white cistus and an unusual See below/the box for details of the dark red rose – were especially programme for the year ahead. You can noteworthy, recurring throughout the also find out about the club and its events gardens. Several club members under ‘Organisations’ on the village succumbed to the temptations of the plant website: www.strathblanefield.org.uk.

MEETINGS 29 September Ian Dougal Plants I would suggest you try in your garden 27 October Stanley Hunter Spring into summer 24 November Jamie Tagg Linn Botanic Gardens 1 December An evening with Carol Seymour This will be a festive Christmas Event in the Edmonstone Hall, with mulled I would very much like to know wine, mince pies and shortbread. Tickets will be available Mrs Dyer’s maiden name, I also lived in advance. in Dumbrock (Black Lawn) for just over twenty years; if my memory serves me correctly we left the house in 1951 when we moved to Ballewan Crescent, Blanefield. I’ve often wondered where CASTLE RECIPE the name Black Lawn came from, since Julie Edmonstone the proper name of the house was Dumbrock. HOME-MADE HAMBURGERS The photograph I have enclosed with this letter is in fact of my best friend onestly, there is no comparison between a home-made hamburger and a Margaret Young, who at that time lived shop bought one, so here is a recipe I’ve used for years and years because in Park Terrace, but some of you everyone adores them- and children love making them too which keeps “oldies” (like me) may just recognise H them quiet on a Saturday morning! The recipe is basically the same as for steak the “Black Lawn” in the background. tartare and is ideal for barbecuing as well as frying. Margaret and I were in the G.T.C. and very proud of it. Thank you Mrs Allow a generous ¼ lb. ORDINARY mince per person (preferably from a Dyer for prompting me to put pen to butcher shop - it really does taste better). Place in a large bowl and add a good paper. dollop of olive oil, one egg yolk per lb., plenty of Lea and Perrins, some salt, (Mrs Dyer’s maiden name is some chopped parsley (scissored up in a mug) and some crushed garlic. Brabender - Ed) Plunge your clean hands into this unedifying mess, mix and knead it thoroughly, scoop out a handful and roll it round and round to form a gently squashed disc COLLAPSED GABION – if you know what I mean. Keep going, placing finished hamburgers on a flat tirling Council Housing Service has plate or tray, and then allow to absorb the flavours for a bit (or overnight). taken professional advice and is Scurrently proposing to remove the Barbecue or fry over a high heat so that the outside is dark brownish and the collapsed gabion and rebuild the eroded inside still pink. Be careful with the cooking time - it is very easy to overcook banking at Park Place using soil, them and lose that delicious moist tenderness – once removed they still go on sharp stone, geotextile matting cooking without telling you. Place in a warm buttered roll and top with ketchup 18 and willow brushwood. and rings of raw onion – absolutely wonderful! place (approx 20 degrees) for a week, issues with wine but all can be prevented AMATEUR WINE then pour into a fermenting jar, filling or cured. to the bottom of the neck and fit air lock Finally some Dos and Don’ts: MAKING siphon off for first time when wine clears but do not bottle until assured that DO: John Boyle fermentation is completely finished. Keep all equipment spotlessly clean The second is Apple wine Keep first ferment closely covered i, my name is John Boyle and I (medium); this is truly a delicious wine Keep air away from the secondary am an amateur wine maker. I and although apparently heavy on the fermentation Hhave been making wine for fruit, it’s well worth making. It is strong Always use fermentation traps nearly 15 years and those of you who yet delicately flavoured with an attractive Keep all bottles full to within ¾ of have tried my home brew will agree it’s faintly cidery bouquet. an inch pretty good stuff. I would like to share Strain liquor off must slowly and with you some of my recipes and lead Apples 10 kilos or 24 lb thoroughly you into the wonderful world of wine Sugar to the gallon of liquor 1.5 kilos Make wines too dry rather than too making or 3lb sweet; sugar them later There are two main ways: the first Water 4.5 litres or 1 gallon Use yeast nutrient regularly and a is by far the simplest; all you do is go to reliable yeast an approved home brew shop and buy a Chop the apples into Add sugar by stages and keep wine kit and then follow the small pieces, put into detailed records instruction. I sometimes container and add the yeast Siphon off at least once preferably use a shop called Glen and water (the water will twice or thrice Brew and it can be found not cover the apples), leave Taste the wine at intervals at 736 Dumbarton Rd in for about a week stirring Always use new corks or stoppers; Glasgow; they have a vigorously several times a boil the old ones for reuse good range of wines and day to bring the apples at Keep red wines in dark bottles or it will offer any help or the bottom to the top, keep will lose its colour advice you want. the container closely HAVELOTSOFFUNMAKING The other way is a covered and in a fairly YOUR WINE little more complicated but warm place, then strain the gives, I feel, greater pleasure: juice from the apple pulp, DON’TS: that is to go and collect fruit or press the juice from the Sell or distil your wine vegetables and make the wine from apples and add to the rest of the liquor. Allow a single vinegar fly access to scratch. First, I will give you two recipes To every 4.5 litres or 1 gallon add 1.5 your wine at any stage to try and at the end I will give you a list kilos or 3 lb of sugar, put into fermenting Use any metal vessel or containers if of equipment that you will need. There bin, fit air lock and leave till clear, when the wine will be in contact with it for are a few things you need to pay attention clear, siphon off. The wine will be ready any length of time to because failure to do so can spoil all for drinking in 6 months but will improve Use any tools or containers of your hard work. Try to keep the if left for 1 year. If eating apples are resinous wood temperature as even as possible; around used it is a good idea to make every 10th Omit to stir the wine twice daily; this 20 degrees is perfect but it can be cooler. lb one of crab apples, and another removes gases and assists clearing The wine will just take longer to ferment; improvement is to employ a sauternes Use too much sugar initially if it’s too hot the quality will be affected. wine yeast Try to speed fermentation by too high You must sterilise all equipment as a temperature cleanliness is essential. I use a very RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT Be impatient; making wine takes time powerful sterilising agent but you can Large fermenting container approx Let your wine stand on dead yeast use Milton sterilising fluid as used for 5 gallon. Avoid containers made from or sediment babies; also, keep your wine covered - iron brass and copper which may be Filter unnecessarily or too soon; most flies are a nuisance and can turn the affected by acids and impart hazes wines will clear of their own accord wine. and flavours to your wine. Put wine into unsterilised bottles The following wines are usually Glass demi-johns 1 gallon containers Bottle your wine while it is still made in September when the fruit is A collection of various funnels fermenting available: Passion Fruit Wine - the Fermentation lock or Air lock Use screw top bottles passilfloraceae or passion flower is so Strainer DRINK TOO MUCH called because its several parts symbolise Yeast complete with nutrient the story of the passion of our Lord. Two Citric acid Mister types produce edible fruit, P.edulis and Sterilising fluid P.quadrangularis, rather like plums. Siphoning tube Handyman Ideal service for those who live alone, are hopeless at Passion fruit 2 kilos or 4lb These are the bare essentials but DIY or are simply too busy working. Barley 250 grams or ½ lb undoubtedly as you progress into wine Sugar 1 kilo or 2.5 lb making you will add other pieces of Water 4.5 litre or 1 gallon desirable equipment such as a Yeast and nutrient Pectic enzyme Thermometer Hydrometer Cut up fruit, put in container, pour Labels boiling water over fruit, cover closely Corking device Small Jobs Household Repairs Maintenance and leave for 4 days, adding the pectic Filtering apparatus No job too small for Mister Handyman Small Task Service enzyme when cool. The enzyme is most Fining agents organic gelatine, Low Rates and no local call out charge important if one is to be sure of haze isinglass or mineral bentonite General Repairs & Maintenance free wine. Stir daily then pour on to the sugar, add the yeast nutrient and stir until As we go on, as well as providing all is dissolved; then add the yeast, various recipes, I will provide preferably a burgundy wine yeast but, information on how to perfect wine by Call Charlie Ward failing that, a general purpose wine yeast giving examples of what can go wrong 01360-771313 or a level teaspoonful of granulated and how to repair it. I will give out a yeast. Keep closely covered in a warm few tips at a time as there can be many 19 falcon known as a Hobby. These birds SWALLOWS, MARTINS & SWIFTS are not often seen in Scotland but are widespread in Europe and so provide a DHL are tempted to feel hard done by. major additional hazard to migrating young swifts, or exhausted adults. Were he fields, roof-tops, telegraph Were you to be impressed by the they to avoid this hazard but traverse wires and evening skies are now trials of the hirundines, spend another Majorca en route across the Talive with the twittering calls of moment now considering the Swift Mediterranean Sea they could encounter Swallows and House Martins as they family. These all-black birds can an even fiercer raptor - the Eleonora’s gorge themselves on the diversity of sometimes be confused with hirundines Falcon which breeds late in the season insect food provided by our lovely but are larger and even more at Cape Formentor just so that the valley. Insects have been particularly accomplished fliers. Last to arrive of migration season south is at a maximum profuse this splendid summer, a fact the summer migrants, they are also the when their chicks are demanding ever which is good news for the hirundines earliest to leave (by mid August). more ‘fast food’. as they gain weight for their e p i c Common in cities across Europe and Life is not easy even for an voyage south to their winter even in the east of Scotland, they are enterprising migrant these days. With haunts in tropical & sub less frequently seen in Glasgow and are the climate appearing to be in a warming tropical Africa. Just only occasional visitors to the valley. part of its cycle we must hope that the pause and think of the Swifts hate rain as it disrupts their food resulting desertification of much of fascinating challenges supply by grounding flying insects northern Africa does not place so great faced by these and so travel hundreds of an obstacle in the way of these small beautiful deep blue miles to avoid it, hence long-distance migrants that they succumb coloured birds; the only their relatively low to starvation en route and disappear from common British birds of this hue. numbers in the West our summer skies. Their loss would be Arriving here in mid April and of Scotland. little short of a catastrophe. laying their eggs (4-7 per nest) from the end of April on, the youngsters hatch after a 2-3 week incubation and begin flying around the middle of June. BLACK GROUSE Thereafter they spend much of their day feeding on flying insects to build l to r: Swallow, ON MUIRHOUSE themselves up for the fantastic voyage House Martin and MUIR ahead of them. Swift Swallows move south with their David Shenton, Scottish Wildlife Trust parents in large gatherings, flying by day Swifts tend to and night across the Channel, France, scream around buildings in he male Black Grouse, commonly Spain and the Mediterranean Sea, only flocks feeding as they go; their known as the Blackcock, is one to arrive in Africa and encounter the aerial displays are stupendous as Tof Scotland’s most handsome daunting expanse of the Sahara Desert. they career around like black miniature birds. The size of a domestic fowl, it is This they must cross stopping only Red Arrows on parade. They nest under glossy black with a ruff of white feathers briefly at the occasional oasis en route. the eaves of buildings and in high cliffs. under its lyre-shaped tail, white wing- They then continue ever southwards The only time in their entire life when bars and a bright red wattle above each before reaching their winter haunts they are not flying is when they are nest eye. They display this finery each spring beyond the equator: a truly epic voyage building, egg laying and incubating. The for a bird of some two months of age rest of their life is spent on the wing! to on-looking females, known as and weighing 20g. As if the geography Recent studies have shown that in order Greyhens, on regular ‘lek’ sites, usually and weather was not hazardous enough, to do so they have acquired the knack grassy, raised areas. the route is peppered with Hawks and of ‘partial’ sleeping. That is to say only In places where there is a healthy Falcons ever on the watch for a tasty one half of their brain is asleep at any population several males may be morsel exhausted by a long flight and one time; the other half being fully involved, strutting around making appearing just when their own young are awake, active and in control. One is continuous, soft but far-carrying in need of a juicy snack. Life for our tempted to wonder if this is also bubbling/cooing noises interspersed with young Swallows and House Martins occasionally true for humans, as it might weird, sharp, harsh calls. presents an awesome challenge, just provide an explanation for the seeming As mentioned in a previous note simply surviving. They will travel some paradox that many a husband has in ‘The Blane’ by Mugdock Country 14,000 miles round trip before we see endured when his wife claims to have Park Ranger Service, Black Grouse them again. imparted some special information or thrive where there is a mosaic of Recently some fall off in numbers request to him, only for him to have no habitats, including moorland, a has occurred due partly to the ever recollection of this ‘fact’. Could it be scattering of trees and wet areas. expanding size of the Sahara Desert in that she was speaking to the side of his In the few years following the our warming climate and partly to the brain that was asleep at the crucial establishment in 1988 of Loch Ardinning bizarre habit of our Mediterranean moment?? Clearly further research is Wildlife Reserve there were occasional cousins who regard anything that flies needed into human sleep patterns to sightings of Black Grouse, usually flying as fair game and shoot them for pleasure elucidate this possibility. over Muirhouse Muir, but it was not in the name of ‘sport’. Fortunately at known if they bred on the reserve. In last the European Union has banned this wifts winter in the sub-Saharan zone the early 1990s it became evident that activity although whether or not those Sof Africa mainly in Zaire and the national population of Black Grouse so-called ‘sportsmen’ will observe the Tanzania but also as far south as was in serious decline and a decision was ban is anyone’s guess. Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Like the made that Muirhouse Muir should be So next time you see a Swallow hirundines they are day-and night-time managed in the best way to encourage a or House Martin, spare a thought for migrants, are strictly monogamous and breeding population of Black Grouse. their lifestyle and be in awe at their can live in the wild for well over 5 years. The muir contained some possible grassy surmounting such enormous challenges. Unlike the hirundines their young have lek sites and expanses of Heather, It might even be worth thinking to feed themselves straight from the nest. Blaeberry and other plants providing of them when your next flight is One of the few avian predators 20 an hour behind schedule and you which can out-fly a swift is the dashing Continued on page 21 Continued from previous page GREENHEART UPDATE suitable food for at least part of the year. In the winter, Birch buds comprise an Patsy Fischbacher Play Services has been drawing up a new important food-source – leading to the design for the play park, including some surprising but regular sight in winter of ou may not have seen any activity of the adjacent woodland, at a reduced birds as large as Black Grouse perching on the ground but there has been budget of around £50,000. The design apparently precariously on the slender Ya lot going on branches of birch trees. behind the scenes. At that time the muir was grazed by sheep in numbers such that there was Paths only limited, local growth of naturally- Plans to upgrade seeding Birch, Rowan and Scots Pines. Danny’s Brae, the Ash An important aim, therefore was to Track and the paths increase the native tree stock, partly by around the football field planting but mainly by reducing the are well under way. Neil grazing pressure. The numbers of sheep Donaldson, of Donaldson on the muir were greatly reduced and a Environmental Consultancy Ltd, is acting small herd of cattle, latterly Highland as project manager; Cattle, introduced, cattle being less discussions have taken prone to munch tree seedlings. place with the Over the last few years there has landowners; the work has been a noticeable increase in the size and been put out to tender and Poor play provision, partly as a result of mindless number of naturally-sown Birches, and the contractor appointed. vandalism in the past up to half-a-dozen Black Grouse have Some unexpected been seen feeding on them in winter. A complications have arisen which will add is to include landscape play features regular single male has been seen to the costs, but the plan is still to start based on the character of the site, as well displaying to up to five females and this the work in September. One change that as more traditional play equipment. The will affect some members of the public Council does not have any budget for is the temporary storage of materials on new equipment but it will provide the the grassy area at Park Place due to project management and then insure, weight restrictions on the road bridge. inspect and maintain new equipment and The other main problem is that Scottish the general play area. Water are concerned about possible damage to the water pipes under the Ash School playing field Track and so some of the work here will Greenheart is also supporting the have to be done by hand rather than by School Board which is heading up a machine. Mr Pickard has also requested proposal for an all weather multi-purpose a slight diversion to the path behind the sports pitch on the far corner of the wall at the end of the football field to school field at a cost of £60,000. This allow for future alterations to the follows an initiative from the Scottish boundary of the adjacent field. Football Association (SFA) who have offered £10,000 towards the project Play Park provided that the community can find Blackcock by Talks have taken place with BTCV the rest of the money. Stirling Council (British Trust Conservation Volunteers) will also contribute £10,000 and will Jane Paterson and Stirling Council (SC) Play Services. manage the project. The rest of the BTCV, who had been acting as our agent money needs to be in place soon as the to obtain funds to re-equip the play park money from the SFA must be spent spring (2006) he was challenged, and drain the school field, had been before the end of August 2007. An initially rather half-heartedly, by a unsuccessful in obtaining any money, so application for £20,000 has been made second male. it was generally agreed that we should through the Community Council to One of the best chances to see these set up a Local Community Development Stirling Council’s Local Community fine birds is late afternoon in mid-winter Trust which would have charitable status Development Fund and other funding looking with binoculars from near the and allow Greenheart to apply directly sources are currently being sought. cairn, when a few may sometimes be to the Lottery and other funding bodies: This would be a wonderful facility, seen feeding on the Birches over towards both SC and BTCV advised that not just for the school, but for the whole the eastern boundary with Lennox applications submitted by a local group community. Forest. Please keep to the path to avoid were more likely to succeed than those submitted by an outside agency or a If you would like any more disturbing them at a time when birds community council. information or would like to help in any need all the food they can get to survive. During the summer months, SC way, phone me on 770716. For more information on the Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve NEW BOLLARD comprising Loch Ardinning and new bollard has been placed at otherwise it defeats the whole purpose Muirhouse Muir please contact me on the entrance to the football field of having it. In the past, the football field 0141 776 5506 or Simon Jones 01236 in Park Place. It is designed to has been damaged by joy riders and 617113. A prevent access to vehicles other than others who have taken their vehicles on those authorised. It can be removed for to the grass. football matches, but for any other It is a place where children play We would welcome news of occasion, it must be kept locked. and, at times, speeding cars have been sightings of Black (or Red) It is important that all keyholders reported - even excessive use Grouse on the reserve. take the trouble to replace the bollard causes a hazard to pedestrians, and lock it when entering and leaving, particularly the young. 21 World” presentation. The ticket price is £5 but Reading Club members and one GEORGE BUCHANAN guest each can purchase tickets at £3. We also hope to have fairly traded a t h er i n e O r g a n ’ s fashions on show and a Traidcraft Stall where you can purchase various goodies C excellent … and even order a fairly traded little book about George Buchanan Christmas cake! All the wine will be Fairly Traded and organic so you will is now available probably all glow with health as you for sale in the library. leave the building (well that’s how you can explain the rosy glow anyway!) If you Thursday 28th sees our ambitious haven’t got a copy, now is the attempt to issue the biggest number of Lynne James books ever in a day in Strathblane! We time to buy one hope everyone who is a library member while you can. Would also make a great present. own at the library we are just will come down and take out at least one buzzing with excitement over our book and, hopefully, join us for coffee COMMUNITY COUNCILLORS Dpart in Stirling’s FIRST EVER during the day. We will be open non Book Festival (see article page 4). Called stop from 9a.m until 9 p.m and we really SEE THE WARD MAP IN THE LIBRARY “Off The Page” this involves all libraries hope to see EVERYONE at some point! in various reading events and includes We would love to be able to offer home BLANEFIELD WARD some big names in the world of baking to go with the coffee but we need David Anderson 770669 children’s and adult literature appearing your help on this. If you feel you can Willie Oswald 770497 throughout the district. Here in support us by bringing round something Margaret Vass 770131 Strathblane we have Cathy McPhail please do we would really appreciate it! coming to talk to the primary school This year’s Reading Scheme for STRATHBLANE WARD children and two events in the library, Primary School pupils over the Summer Elspeth Posnett 770113 which we hope will be really good fun was a great success. The “The Reading Alastair Smith 770120 and well supported. Mission” theme was spies and spying On Tuesday 26th September we and lots of kids joined in enthusiastically MUGDOCK WARD will be hosting a night of wine sampling and we want to say very well done to all John Cushley 770257 (VERY literary obviously!) and food who completed the scheme and Philip Graves 0141 956 1954 tasting and round the world readings in especially those who made it last the Bob Flashman 770979 our “How Books Can Change Your whole holiday! John Gray 771031

SCHOOL OF DANCING Lynda Eastcroft teach ballet, tap, jazz and modern stage dancing to children from 2 and Ia half upwards. I have taught dancing for many years to many girls and boys who have grown up in Strathblane. The classes are made up mainly of girls, but boys are very welcome. Traditionally pupils from my Primary 3 and 4 class are chosen to be "the dancers" at the Blane Valley Players annual pantomime. Last year's production was Treasure Island and the dancers performed 2 numbers: as "sailors" in the first half of the pantomime and then as "fish" in the second half. They also have to lead the booing and cheering for the various panto characters - I think that's their favourite part!! After the pantomime is over we start to concentrate on exam preparation. performed a lively line dance and were to all who came to watch the show. It These exams are not compulsory but much appreciated by the watching wouldn't be the same without you! most of the pupils like to have a goal to crowd. As soon as one display is over, I am constantly asked "What are we doing aim for and I'm pleased to say that results The highlight of our dancing in these exams are generally very high. calendar is the annual "Dancing Display" next year?" I'll need to get my thinking It's nice to have something to show for where the pupils perform before an cap on! The holidays are over (so quickly!) and a new session is just all the hard work. audience of family and friends. Our title In June of this year the Primary theme this year was "Girls on Film" beginning. Let’s hope it is as successful school held a Gala day with a western which allowed us to dance to music from as last session. theme. Once again the Primary 3 and 4 a wide range of films eg. The Can Can Spare copies of the classes were called upon to be from Moulin Rouge, the Star Wars "the dancers". Wearing fringed theme, songs from Jungle Book and Blane can be bought in 22 skirts and cowboy hats they Oliver, and many more. Many thanks the library ROBERTSONS John Lawrie ld J & K Muir Architectural Consultants e 4 Craigfern Drive Blane Valley Translation Service efi Blanefield • Extension? n rs Plumbing & • Dormer? Inn German, Spanish or la a • Internal Alterations? Portuguese into English B C Heating Services Open all day English into German & Spanish Face to face interpretation in Cars & 8 seater mini bus 44 Glasgow Rd Every day German & Spanish available for all your travel Blanefield Meals always available requirements 770151 D & M Frood 771280 fax: 0870 134 7377  770261 [email protected] 770303 [email protected] 770646 R Dickson SAORSA Strathblane Brown’s Pharmacy Private Hire Butcher, General Store G S (ROOFIN G) & Post Office Clothing Prescriptions, Strathblane Fresh meat & home made pies Developing & Printing ANYWHERE Groceries, frozen foods, Alterations Toiletries All roof repairs, slating, AT ANY TIME fresh fruit & veg tiling, guttering, leadwork, Envelopes, greetings cards Opening Hours roughcasting, storm damage, Competitive Rates newspapers, magazines Mon-Fri 9.00 to 6.00 Pr ofessional Tr adesm an by Anne Scott Sat 9.00 to 1.00 770040 770255 (Shop) Closed lunchtime 12.45 to 2.15 Tel: 770708 Mobile 078 01 372 735 770291 (PO) 771065 770731 Mob: 0796 883 1313 DAWSON STRATHBLANE Mister Handyman ELECTRICAL COUNTRY HOUSE All Domestic and Small jobs & Commercial Installations carried out home repairs ••FUNCTIONS PARTIES ••WEDDINGS CELEBRATIONS Call Charlie Ward for • NIGHTS OUT Phone Graham • AIRPORT, BUS & RAILWAY TRANSFERS information ••TOURS APPOINTMENTS... www.mister-handyman.co.uk  /Fax 770983 FOR RESERVATIONS  01360 770491 771313 11, Milngavie Rd., Strathblane 770999 771321 Fax 01360 770345 William Wallace www.visit-lochlomond.com Derek Edward Premier Store & Sons Accommodation Southview Road Groceries, chilled & frozen food General Building around the loch Crisps and confectionary, Off-licence Sports and Leisure, Shopping Hairdresser & Magazines & newspapers Contractors Wedding / Celebrations etc. National Lottery, “What’s On” listing, Major Mobile phone top-up cards monthly Newsletter Stylist LINK Network ATM cash machine  Suggestions and ideas welcome  Open 7 days 770266  Willie Bell 770634 7.30am -10pm Stockiemuir Rd 770002 [email protected]  770123

LYNDA TURNER ASDTA C T M DESIGN Ltd SCHOOL of DANCING Arthouse Chartered Architects 71A GLASGOW ROAD Limited Edition Prints Planning Supervisors Adult Line Dancing Strathblane/Blanefield Office support Director C T McNair RIBA ARIAS MaPS For Men & Women Mondays 11am-12pm and the surrounding area 14 Craigenlay Ave services both off-site by or on-site for large or Cutting, colouring Thursdays 8-9.30pm Andrew McNeish Blanefield small businesses Perming Edmonstone Hall Glasgow G63 9DR  & fax: 770666 22a Kirkhouse Road Mobile: 07798 875 345 770149  771070  770390  771134 [email protected] Lorne Howell Milndavie Farm Jennifer Thomas Finest Joiner & Builder Riding Centre Upholstery & Attic conversions foods Fun for all! Soft Furnishings for help with producing Home extensions Lessons. Special courses from written work Fitted kitchens for children - take care of Bathrooms a pony for a week around the world call Adults - ride across open 01360 771613 All property maintenance moorland, discover local  770166 bridleways Delicatessen [email protected] Mob: 07745046483 770658  770857 771110 www.brailey-editorial.co.uk The Quinloch Home Fitness Accommodation for & Rehab D M Joinery relatives, friends, Expert help from Home extensions Wedding guests? Timber decking & fencing Wide Range of Building David McLean M.Phil, BA Attic conversions Farm-House B & B All property maintenance Services* Free Estimates Chartered Helen Loudon  01360 770836 Physiotherapist  771543 Mobile: 07915346447 [email protected] 770225 771544  770919 We wish to reflect the views and opinions Doctors Surgeries of the whole community without including anything that would offend Strathblane 770340 Post Office 770291 anyone. We would emphasise that the Killearn 550339 Pharmacy 770731 views expressed in the Blane are not (prescription line) 550095 Primary School 770608 necessarily those of the editor and he retains the right to have the final say on Police 770224 Royal Bank 770610 any articles included. Crimestoppers 0800 555111 Library 770737 23 Day on Sunday 12th November THE REAL OLD RAILWAY LINE to clear away mud and debris C CYCLE TRACK PLAN from the lower part of the track, M COY TEMPORARILY DERAILED behind Blane Crescent, to make the path more accessible for walkers in the winter Alan Campbell he feasibility study into linking the months. It will consist of physical, West Highland way at Dumgoyach outdoor work using digging and cutting ant to Tto the Strathkelvin Way is now implements. Tools and refreshments will h e l p with the Council. The good news is that be provided. The work will take place Wt h e Scottish Water has given their approval, between 1pm and 4pm. You can come environment? but the bad news is that the project will for as long or short a time as suits but Need more cost a quarter of a million under 16s must be space in your pounds and the Council Community Action Day accompanied by an adult. bin? Got child- does not have this kind of Sunday 12th November Wear clothes and footwear ren in nappies? money. There are also 1pm - 4pm suitable for doing practical F o r g e t other parts of the cycle outdoor work. The initial disposables - use network in the Stirling Council area party will meet at the library carpark, real nappies. which are a higher priority. but if you live at the Blanefield end of F i r s t l y , Nevertheless, though we may not be at the village or want to join in later on, forget what your mother tells you about the top of the list, at least we are now then just come directly to the railway them. Technology has moved on and real on it and with the feasibility study now track. If you intend coming, please nappies aren’t anything like they used available, the Council are able to pursue phone the ranger, Douglas Flynn, on to be. Today’s nappies are easy to put funding whenever the opportunity may 01786 442439, to give him an idea of on (no folding or pins), easy to wash arise. the numbers. and look great. Ignore the propaganda The Council is well aware of the Anyone who walked along the Old you see from that company that begins importance of the Old Railway line to Railway Line last winter will know how with a “P”, real nappies are arguably our community, which is why it has been boggy the ground is and how necessary better for your child's skin than most included in their core paths plan (see this work is if the path is to be accessible disposables as they contain no chemicals. page 12). The Countryside Ranger is all year round. Please come and help, The most common type consists also organising a Community Action even if only for a short time. of 3 parts - an absorbent nappy which is shaped like a pair of underpants and fastens at the sides, a waterproof “wrap” NEW SHOP ON THE BLOCK which goes around the nappy and a Bill Woodger “liner” to let the wetness get away from baby's skin and prevent it getting back. he Antique Shop Washing them is simply a matter of Topposite the War popping them in the washing machine Memorial has a new at a 60 degree wash - no soaking required owner, Catherine and they are dried like your regular Barrett, who has taken clothes. Architectural and Apart from the environmental and Decorative Glass bin space benefits, they also cost less - Studies at Glasgow about £500 including the costs of College of Building washing/drying and more if you use and printing. them for further children as you don’t Serendipity is a have the initial investment. Isn’t it Decorative Glass horrible to deal with them? I hear you Studio with glass ask. Well, not really, as you have to artists available to clean your child up anyway. A little bit u n d e r t a k e extra washing and drying is the only commissioned pieces downside. If you are interested but not for the home and garden. Also repairs to stained glass windows and panels. ready to take the plunge then you could Handcrafted glassware designed, created and kiln fired by various glass artists will try a nappy service which will drop off be available to purchase, as well as a selection of jewellery and glass art. nappies to your door and pick up and Catherine foresees the studio being open half the week and at weekends. wash the dirty ones (See the internet or Yellow Pages for services). It is a way to break you in gently without much expenditure but not the most eco-friendly method long term. Finally, you don’t have to use classes and fiddles and guitars are cloth nappies all the time. For night Sheila McFarlane available for hire. You can join times, or if you are on holiday, you can even though classes have started buy eco-friendly disposable nappies. et Reel resumed classes for so, if you are interested, please call Sainsbury's sell them and a brand called children and adults in traditional Suzanne on 551686 or Sara on 550770. Moltex can be purchased from the music and drama on 5 September G We welcome comments on internet or mail order. There is much at Balfron High School. more to real nappies than can be covered Formed 3 years ago, Get Reel runs anything that appears in the in this short article so I encourage you classes in fiddle, whistle, guitar and newsletter. Please write to the to find out more by reading on the drama/storytelling. We also organise Editor, Mike Fischbacher, at: internet. I have prepared some more traditional music sessions throughout the comprehensive notes about real nappies villages in south west rural Stirlingshire, 4 Southview Road, Strathblane which can be found at http:// and have held concerts to showcase the G63 9JQ www.strathblanefield.org.uk/ talent of both Scottish and International or e-mail: nappies.htm. You can access the musicians. [email protected] 24 internet at the library for free. Places are still available in most  01360 770716