Strathblane, Blanefield, Mugdock, Carbeth & Auchineden (circulation 1000) Issue 9... April 2001 WOODLAND BLITZ [email protected] Patsy Fischbacher you have an exciting and in- and clear the undergrowth so of wood will be left to rot natu- vigorating experience but you that the play area can be seen rally as this provides habitat t was Saturday 24th March. will also have the satisfaction from the surrounding houses for wildlife. The Community Council of helping to further the vil- in the hope that this will de- had chosen that day to lage project to improve the ter further vandalism. It will t a recent public meeting completeI the woodland work network of paths and play ar- also benefit the health of the Ait was agreed to set up a in Milndavie Glen. We had eas in the village. How can woodland itself. This is the separate management group to then had an offer of help from you resist? So get your diary job that we need to complete coordinate the different ele- the British Trust Conservation out right now and mark Volunteers (BTCV) to thin out down Saturday 12th May. the trees and clear the under- growth in the woodland beside he first stage of this the playpark. So we decided Tproject was last year’s to combine our efforts and do woodland clearance work in all the work on the same day. the glen.One Saturday in It was a cold, grey, blus- June 40 folk of all ages tery day but we had a great helped to fell trees, clear time felling and pruning trees rubbish and fire sites, dig out and clearing shrub and accu- the drainage ditch alongside mulated debris. About 15 lo- the existing path, and put up cal folk came along and we ‘no-fly-tipping’ signs. It was were joined by an equal because of this community number from BTCV. For some effort that Stirling Council it was a new experience, we agreed to support our over- hardly knew what a bow saw all project. The next stage was let alone how to use one! was the formation of the new But we had such a good time, path as was featured in the that we felt sorry for the rest February issue of the Blane. of you who had not had this On the 24th March we com- wonderful opportunity and so pleted the woodland main- we are arranging another vol- tenance in the glen by fell- unteers day so that you too can ing, pruning and planting join in the fun!! Not only will trees and putting in posts at Strategy meeting in the woods by the play park the junction of the new and old paths in order to prevent on the 12th May. The Coun- ments of the project and to Inside horse riders from using and cil will then come back with facilitate the acquiring of the thus damaging, the new path. a chain saw to remove the tree necessary funding for the • Hopping success We then moved on to the area stumps, and with a chipper to paths and play equipment. behind the playpark. The ob- dispose of some of the larger There will be more • Letter from Canada jective was to thin out the trees branches. The remaining piles about this in the next issue. • Balfron High news FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE UPDATE • Brownie Splash & Cash Stewart Eastaugh many that do not and the points. The situation is nec- • Climbing features Council would appreciate it if essarily fluid so, if in doubt, ll the routes that the you could bear with us and please give us a call here at Council originally posted • Sport A stick to these for now (and in Stirling Council on 01786 with the yellow “Please don’t doing so please follow the 442937. use this path” signs are being Comeback Code - page 14). For those of you wish- • Blane Valley Railway reviewed by individual risk as- At the time of writing ing to travel further afield sessments. The main thrust of Strathblane to Lennoxtown within the Stirling Council • Art of tree felling these is based on whether or cycleway has opened, as has area, feel free to give us a call not the route passes or will the Old Railway to the Beech on the same number. We do • Old Mill competition pass through areas with live- Tree. However, Campsie keep regularly updated infor- stock. It is the nature of com- Dene Water Track, Lovers’ mation on areas opening up Next issues June and Sep- munities like this one that Lane and the Whangie remain in the district. This informa- tember. Deadline dates for many paths do pass through closed. The West Highland tion is also posted on articles 25th of previous fields with livestock in them. Way has been opened although the council’s website month. Thankfully, however, there are there are diversions at some (www.stirling.gov.uk). 1 FESTIVAL COMMUNITY Carol Russell TELEPHONE OF BRITAIN COUNCIL NUISANCE YOU ARE in your kitchen ELECTION juggling a saucepan of WILLIE OSWALD, chair- Béarnaise sauce, a steamer of tender young asparagus tips man, welcomed three new and a grill-pan of fillet steak councillors at the recent meet- on the verge of cremation, ing. They are Carol Russell Philip Graves when the phone rings. and Cerys MacGillivray, Ward “Good evening Mr/Mrs 2, and Philip Graves from Brown/Smith/Graham. This Ward 1. is Kirsty from Kitchen Con- John Perry The Council is espe- versions From Hell. This is cially pleased to have a rep- not a sales call, we are just FOR some time now I have resentative from Mugdock, been collecting anecdotes, conducting a survey on how news reports, postcards and Philip Graves being a resident Cerys people feel about being cold- souvenirs of the Festival of of the village. Unfortunately, MacGillivray called at inconvenient times, Britain, which took place in Sally Bowman has had to step and wondered if you would be 1951. I have gathered to- down, so there are still two kind enough to answer a few gether quite a collection about vacancies on the Council, one questions …” You don’t like the South Bank exhibition in in each of these wards. to be rude and slam the phone London and events across down so you hang on while England and in Scottish cit- Kirsty completes her script- ies, but I have not been able A “HOPPING” SUCCESS reading, then you make some to find out much about what lame excuse about running celebrations (if any) took Kate O’Neill lous day when the whole vil- late for an appointment with place in our particular area for lage united to raise funds and your hairdresser/vet/MSP be- that special year. hat a surprise to see have some fun whilst remem- fore signing off with hollow Does anyone remember Mugdock pond in the bering baby Stuart Mackay. apologies. if Blanefield/Strathblane or- Edmonstone Hall on The success of the day means If that sounds familiar, W th ganised anything or celebrated Sunday 4 March! read on, for help is at hand. the Festival in any special Not even foot and Simply call 0845 070 way? Did you, or friends, or mouth legislation pre- 0707 and you will get through family go to any events any- vented the children of where else in Britain? Did to the Direct Marketing As- you perhaps visit the floating Strathblane and dis- sociation’s Telephone Prefer- exhibition on board the con- trict from raising cash ence Service. By answering a verted carrier ‘CAMPANIA’ for the Fun Hut and few simple questions (tel- when it visited Glasgow docks the Paediatric Inten- ephone number, post code, in September/October 1951? sive Care unit at the address and name) you will Do you have any photographs, Queen Mothers Hos- have your number put on programmes or souvenirs of pital, Glasgow. DMA’s register of household- the Festival? If so, and if you When Mugdock ers who do not wish to be would you be prepared to tell park got told to shut cold-called, ever again! The me about them and for items their gates, and the whole process is automated to be copied/scanned/photo- future of the children’s and takes about 2 minutes. (If graphed, I would be very planned “Bunny Hop” you are troubled by unwanted happy to hear from you. I around Mugdock pond faxes, register by calling 0845 would like to prepare an arti- looked bleak, the 070 0702). cle based on local memories Edmonstone hall com- If, in the meantime, you – in this 50th Anniversary year mittee stepped in and – for the next issue of Vivienne Mackay with bunnies Leah continue to receive unwanted saved the day.! Our van Nimwegen and Ellen Mackay calls all you need say is, “I ‘BLANE’. John Perry 770126 children just brushed am on DMA’s Telephone Pref- down their tails and erence Service and I don’t STOP PRESS! hopped around an “Art at- that the Fun Hut and The Pae- wish to be called again.” tack” equivalent pond instead! diatric Intensive care unit will Allegedly it works, but you’d As they did, they exchanged a both receive a sum in the re- better think up another excuse cardboard egg for a chocolate gion of £750.00 each. Thank for ruining the dinner! one donated by the “Spar” - you to all who supported the Thanks Walter! Mhairi at the day - either in person or Artwork has been kindly Country Kiln supplied all our through donations. created especially for the race prizes; and the Blane Val- Please contact Kate - Blane by Cathy Campbell. ley and Décor Doctor pro- 770108 or Vivienne 770101 if vided our raffle. Tesco sup- you would like to make a fur- ported us by providing our ther donation to the unit. McLAY CUE & REVIEW have kindly boiled eggs. This gave the Thank you. McALISTER offered to make audio (cas- & children much pleasure as McGIBBON sette tape) copies of BLANE they painted and then egg and If you have difficulty available to any interested spoon raced them. Faces contacting Stirling Chartered Accountants party who is blind, visually were painted and Easter Bon- & Registered Auditors or reading impaired. If you, nets were made (all to the Council for a solution to or anyone you know, would your problem, phone or City firm with local contact like to take advantage of this dulcet tones of the Tweenies). FREE service, and qualify by Meanwhile the mums and e-mail your local coun- 53 Bothwell Street way of a relevant impairment, dads enjoyed a well earned cillor, Glasgow G2 6TS please call John Perry 770 126 cuppa, and succumbed to Catherine Organ temptation as our baking stall Tel: 0141 221 6516 or Margaret Smith 770 550266 120 to make arrange- emptied! Fax: 0141 204 1008 2 ments. All in all, it was a fabu- [email protected] [email protected] bogey, was used the end re- sult was sheer joy for all of LETTER FROM CANADA us, except the grown-ups who had to cope with a slippery Archie McCallum cluding the playing fields be- snowfall you could sled from road in winter and a hurtling ing under water. However by the top of the old brae to Park bogey in summer. he Blane, issue 8, is to sliding along the fence wires Terrace and after a few runs With blowing snow the hand and as is usual, and with an occasional jump, the entire route was in first main road at Napier lodge Twith your publication, dry land could be reached at class condition, a run of well would be blocked by snow the articles contained therein the water track and the course compacted snow. The glebe drifts. These were dug out raised some long forgotten completed successfully. The also served as a toboggan run, by hand, using village labour, memories of village activities. penalty for a misstep was a but did not have the risks or providing mountains of snow Skating, in the thirties, soaking and a belting. Flood- the demand for control as had on either side of the road for was not on the Deil’s Craig, ing was considerably reduced the old brae, making it a lo- slides. The risk of going un- which you described so well. der a vehicle was never con- Miss Chriton(sic), the owner, templated, as vehicles were was always watchful of any- few and far between one trespassing in that area, The View from the Sta- and forbade any activities on tion recalls the single police- the loch. Anyway it was a man who ruled the villages bit far on a winter’s night to and surrounds. He was held go all that distance. The fa- in great respect by all, espe- voured spot was Wattie’s dam, cially the children. However lots of room for skating, and as everyone knew everyone, we were not subject to har- the threat of “ I’ll tell your assment. Skating was spas- mother” was a greater deter- modic in any winter but, as rent to mischievous young- in the photo, ice hockey was sters than any visible symbol the game, minus the rules as of the law. we had none. With a good The policeman always freeze up, Loch Ardunnan attended sheep dippings. For (sic) was the place to be. As Milndavie farm, the fank was the headmaster at S.P.S. was up the Boards road and I can a Mr. P. Webster, himself a Park Terrace with path leading to the football field still see the policeman, in all curler, a school holiday would his glory of white shirt but be decreed. Loch Ardunnan when the river diversion took cation of second choice. Cor- without a jacket, supervising then became a social gather- place prior to the Jubilee cel- nering at the top of the brae the proceedings. There was ing for the village and the ebrations. A picnic with and again, in Edenkiln, to go no monetary reward for our venue for ice sports for the sports and games, for this down the doctor’s brae re- dubious help at the dipping. day. The number of people on event, was held in the field quired determination and A packet of five woodbines the ice must have been a cause south of the Kirkhouse, and I luck. was occasionally produced as for concern, but I recall no think a bridge was constructed Summer saw the old an incentive. The pleasure of mishaps due to the failure of across the Blane to give ac- brae used as a bogey ride, a being involved was the reward, the ice. cess from the playing field.. much more dangerous sport as as it was at the harvest. Flooding of the Blane The ‘coo’s’ park, the park be- the bogeys were not designed Your article on Col. burn is apparently still a prob- low the doctor’s garden, was for stability, steering or brak- Cameron was of particular lem as it was in our days. flooded up to the then, dirt ing and once started a runout interest since I had served Flooding was a cause for re- road to Park Terrace, at each was needed, or a convenient with that regiment while at the joicing as this meant that spate and prior to the diver- ditch. Bogeys were scarce as Royal Technical College. Dumbrock and Park Terrace sion. pram wheels (discarded) were You will be pleased to had no longer direct access Snow in Scotland was, hard to come by. Leaving an learn several Strathblane under the railway bridge to I understand, a problem this unattended pram ran the risks expats., in this Southern On- Blanefield, and hence the year. Snow and ice were of it being quickly converted tario area, now read your pub- school. The whole area, never a problem to ‘us yins’ into a bogey. Whichever lication and await each issue along the embankment, in- in the thirties. With a good mode of transport, sled or with eager anticipation.

WATER PILOT PLANT THANKS Douglas Johns (ESW) of Loch Lomond and Loch complaints about the condition hank you to everyone Katrine water will then be of the access track ESW have who has contributed to EAST OF SCOTLAND Wa- tested to prove the ability of upfilled potholes and applied Tthe funding of the news- Balmore WTW to treat a a non-slip surface to part of letter, either by a donation ter (ESW) are delighted to re- direct to the editor or by port that two Portacabins con- cocktail of these two waters. the steel plate reinforcement Operation of the pilot to the culvert crossing. putting money in the boxes in taining the pilot plant were We understand that dur- the shops. successfully delivered to site plant will continue over the We have received next year so that testing can ing the first few weeks of work along the old railway on on site the access track was £217 since the last is- Wednesday 14th February be carried out across the full left open for long periods of sue but each issue 2001. Over the following range of raw water conditions. time. Every effort is now be- costs about £430 three week period, water sam- To allow site access for so we are half- ing made to control vehicle way to be- ple pipework and electricity HGV’s, temporary steel plates movements along the access were placed over the culvert ing self cables were connected to al- track by replacing the bollard su pp or t- low the unit to start operation. on the access track. A per- at all times. ESW would ask ing. Work is now underway manent replacement of this members of the public to no- T h e with Loch Lomond water be- culvert together with improve- tify us of any misuse of this boxes are ing used to set up four trial ments to the condition of the access route and would apolo- in Browns, the Library, filter columns each identical track is currently on the draw- gise for any inconvenience Chemist and Blanefield PO. to the make-up of the filters ing board. ESW hope to carry caused to pedestrians during Cheques should be at Balmore WTW. Once out this work later in the year. our vehicle movements to and made payable to: optimised a range of blends As a result of some from the site. “The Blane” 3 VIEW FROM THE STATION ELECTORS ust a brief note this edi ing back to this environment from the public, it cannot be tion, we have both been after six years away from it stated strongly enough that we ON AROLL Jbusy working away from and heartening to see how pro- rely on your support in this A “ROLLING” REGISTER the station in recent weeks and fessional the Unit is. A sub- important area. We would of Electors is now in place which allows electors to be as I write we are both off sick stantial increase in manpower therefore appeal to anyone added, and deleted, on a having caught the flu. As you has been provided to the unit who has information relating monthly basis when they no- may have read in the local and with funding in place to sup- to drug dealing and misuse to tify the Electoral Registration national press the Chief Con- port their call us at the office, 770101, Officer of changes in address stable has launched the Safer or call Crimestoppers on 0800 or circumstances e.g. become Central Campaign. This is a 555 111. You may be eligible 18, change name on marriage major commitment of for a reward, and any call will etc. Application forms are our resources to tar- be in confidence. available NOW from the ad- geting criminal activ- Finally a brief word on dress below. Postal voting is now ity and as the name the foot and mouth outbreak available to every elector; no suggests creating a which so far has had little reason for choosing this op- safer environment impact here. There are re- tion need be provided. for us all. strictions in place on the Proxy voting is also I have spent movement of animals. If you available as an option, how- February and see livestock being moved ever the elector requires to early March please let us know at the time give a reason why they can- working with the Force Drugs activity. or as soon as possible there- not vote in person or by post. Unit in Stirling helping set up The one thing that after. The movement may be If the reason is disability, work related, or attendance at an their contribution to the op- hasn’t changed is the reliance legitimate but there is no harm educational course, someone eration. It was interesting go- on information coming in in checking. else must support the decla- ration. Electors can choose to vote by post or proxy either house plants or garden plants for one election, for a particu- SPRING or some spare seedlings, do KIRKHOUSE lar period or for all future bring them along. If possible, election. plants should be labelled, but Electoral Registration FAYRE if you cannot remem- BUILDING Officer, Hillside House, Wylma Dunbar ber the name, a short EADIE DEVELOPMENTS Laurelhill, Stirling FK7 9JQ description stating are moving ahead fast with the Tel (01786) 892280 t r a t h b l a n e maximum/minimum building work and anticipate or Fax (01786) 892255 Church Guild height, colour of completing the flats below the or e-mail S are holding a flower, etc. would be Kirkrooms by August this [email protected] Spring Fayre in the helpful. If you wish to Kirk Rooms on Satur- dig out some plants year. The rest of the develop- day, 28th April, 10 - 12, and require transport to the ment should be completed by THE BLANE which will be opened by Colin Kirk Rooms, please contact the spring of 2002. Barrie of Mugdock Plantaria. Julie Swann at 770650. The Fayre will be in Please get digging and SWRI collaboration with the Gar- baking and look out some un- (The Rural) dening Club, and for sale wanted treasures which would VILLAGE there will be plants, home be suitable for the bric-a-brac NEW members are always baking and small bric-a-brac. stall. CLUB welcome at the above meet- Coffee and cake will be avail- The proceeds from the able for £1.50. Colin McNair ing. The next meeting is April Fayre will be in aid of Guild 19th in the Edmonstone Hall Contributions towards Funds and Crossroads Care the stalls will be most grate- Attendance Scheme, so to ollowing the award of at 7.30pm. The topic is Celtic fully received, and these can help us make this a success, grants from the National Creations. Perhaps we’ll see be handed in to the Kirk come along, support this ven- FLottery Charities Board you there. Further details Rooms on Friday, 27th April ture, improve your garden and and Stirling Council, work is from Mary Marshall 770396. between 2 and 4pm and 7 and soon to start on the external have some coffee and home fabric repairs at The Village 9pm. Please look round your baking in our home village C T M DESIGN LTD house and garden, and if you instead of going further Club. have an over-abundance of I am pleased to be the CHARTERED ARCHITECTS afield. Architect for this project. The Committee have worked long PLANNING SUPERVISORS and hard to secure the fund- HELP FOR ing, and although there will Architects for the Fabric ation is FREE. be disruption for the many Repairs to the Village Club CFSLA uses the user groups, this work will ORGANISATIONS profits of a ensure the future of the build- monthly lottery ing. With over 30 years experience DO YOU KNOW of any or- (employees & ex-employees You will have noticed Colin McNair is pleased to ganisations who need some of Clackmannanshire, Falkirk that the overgrown shrubs and help? Then why not contact & Stirling Local Authorities dead trees have already been offer free advice the Charities Resources Com- which includes Police, Fire & removed from around the on all building projects mittee and/or CFSLA Payroll Assessors Services) to buy Club, in preparation for the including Lottery Committee. builderwork starting after the equipment for community domestic extensions and CRC have a stock of groups and charities. Easter holidays. equipment and resources The 15 week contract alterations Application forms and has been awarded to W & A which it hires out to affiliated more information on how to Scott of Balfron, and it will groups at low costs. Equip- join from Unit 1 The Trade 14 Craigenlay Avenue, ment includes two involve the renewal of roof- Centre, Bruce Street, Alloa tiles, windows, gutters and Blanefield Glasgow G63 9DR minibuses, tents, PA FK10 1RX. Answering ma- down-pipes, and the painting 4 System etc.and affili- chine/Fax (01259) 211052. of external walls and timbers. Tel No 01360 770666 NEW SCHOOL NEWS OUT OF SCHOOL CARE ANENTHUSIASTIC and where they spent “the happi- Joanna Lynch, Chairperson applied for. hard-working committee est days of their lives”(?). Meanwhile, the SOSC chaired by Sandy Kelso, De- Anyone who would like to be ut of School Care is be committee have organised a ing set up in fundraising ceilidh in the pute Rector, has kept in touch with Strathblane, by a vol- Edmonstone Hall on April now received the plans for the untaryO group of parents, as a 28th, with some great raffle hundreds of ex- “Last Look Day” week should write Saturday 12th May result of the positive feedback prizes from many local busi- pressions of in- or telephone from December’s survey. nesses. terest from Sandy Kelso at the The Scout Hall (behind A copy of SOSC’s con- Balfron High School former school, 01360 449244. Edenkiln Surgery) looks set to stitution will be available in pupils in the Reunion Week Sandy’s email address is be the location for the youth the library as soon as it has which is planned for the week [email protected]. activity and it is hoped that been approved by Inland Rev- beginning 29th October, in the this extension of use will ben- enue and charity status efit present and future users agreed. new school. Contact has been AND... of the hall. The committee would made with FP’s in Canada and Care will be provided welcome contact from any Australia, as well as in many Don’t forget for Primary 1 – Primary 7 parents of primary school European countries. to look out children by registered child aged children in Strathblane. In response to public demand, y o u r carers, initially for after It is hoped to have application there will also be a “Last mem o- school hours, but with a view forms available through the Look Day” on Saturday 12th rabilia. to extending this to cover in- school in the summer term. May, when the present build- service days and holidays. ing will be open to FP’s for a Money is needed to buy Any enquiries can be equipment and to pay salaries made to SOSC’s Secretary, last opportunity to pay a nos- and other expenses, and there Shona Currie, at 20 Blane talgic visit to the building is grant money which can be Crescent, Blanefield. DANGEROUS FOOTWAY THE FOOTWAY on the A81 Ballewan Crescent to the Blanefield Nursing Home has been repaired by Stirling Council. Over one hundred concerned residents signed a pe- tition asking for this work to be carried out. If you were one of those, thank you. Thanks also to Strathblane Commu- nity Council for their support. In addition, Mrs Organ (Cllr), Mrs McGuire (MP) and Mrs Jackson (MSP) wrote to the Council on our behalf. A dangerous part of the village has now been made safe.

Brownies at Grangemouth with Kim MacGregor when local brownies, guides BROWNIE and friends alike sang their hearts out for children in need SPLASH at their Karaoke disco. A total of £120 was raised for Lyn Kelly comic relief. Well done brownies! STRATHBLANE Brownies have recently taken to the water for the District swim- ming gala, competed at the GUIDE SHOW “Belfast Shield” and raised money for comic relief. Anne Scott Grangemouth sports centre played host to 20 st Strathblane Guides brownie units and in an would like to thank all evening of drama and excite- 1those who helped with ment Kirstine Browne ex- and attended the Guide fash- celled by winning the 8 year ion show in December. It was old breast stroke event. a tremendous success raising Kirsten MacGregor also over £300 for Guide funds. showed some pace being run- The total was boosted ner up in the 7 year old free- by Anne Balfour selling books style. during the interval. The idea The annual “Belfast behind the fashion show was Shield”, held at Buchlyvie vil- to give the girls something lage hall, tested the different to do that they would Strathblane Brownies’ mental enjoy, I think we succeeded! and physical abilities and There will be a video avail- those that took part had a fan- able to anyone who was un- tastic day. They even com- able to attend if they want to posed their own unique borrow it. I have since pur- brownie rap for the occasion. chased 3 tents with the The highlight of the proceeds for use at week was on Tuesday night Guide camp. 5 AUSTRALIA DIARY Claire Guy port on the river. The old boat · Catching little ferries egg rolls with fresh coffee at chugged along and it was very backwards and forwards about 10a.m. after cycling 70 · CYCLING through Namadgi relaxing to sit and watch the across the Murray River in kms. It is great to feel so Wilderness Area near Can- riverbanks go by. South Australia. They are a strong and fit and deserving berra. It was a rough road · Getting up well before free service that operates 24 of such a huge delicious which climbed for maybe 50 dawn and cycling in the breakfast. Food has never kms with many steep sections dark with the dawn slowly tasted so good. through eucalyptus forest that arriving. The moon hung · Learning how to get to changed as we climbed higher brilliantly on our right hand grips with cycling into a head- and higher. The smell of the side and the sun burst into wind. I usually feel quite pa- trees was wonderful. We the sky on the left hand thetic when a headwind gets camped in the middle of the side. It was magical. to a certain strength. It bat- park with kangaroos our only · Cycling in early ters me about and there is no companions. I sang as I went morning mist from escape. I feel angry and sulky to the small river for water to Bungonia National Park and want to blame Jim (hus- chase any snakes away! It was and seeing kangaroos, din- band). It always seems so un- very hot. On the second af- goes, iguanas and lots of fair like a personal attack with ternoon we stopped around flashing parrots. The mist me helpless to battle it. This mid-day to collect more wa- clung to the tiny hairs on year I learned to accept the ter from the river to boil and my arms and they stood up headwind and stop trying to cool for our bottles. It took a like fur. I looked like a fight it but just cycle the best I could with it. It felt great to very long time to get the wa- creature from the Hobbit!!. give up the fight and I was ter cool enough to put in our · Watching the sunset able to co-operate with Jim to bottles as the air temperature from ancient sand dunes deal with it. We would take was so high! I loved this sec- (called the Walls of China) 15 minutes turns in front and tion because, although it was in Mungo National Park, then swap over. If the wind very challenging physically, it northern New South Wales. Baroomba Rocks, Namadgi got very strong and was re- was so different and so Aus- They have discovered the ally battering me around Jim tralian with kangaroos and remains of the oldest homo National Park, NSW would do extra time in front. amazing bird life and eucalyp- sapiens in the world in It was a great achievement to tus. these dunes. She is called the hours each day. We went on 4 find another way to deal with · Riding on an old pad- Mungo women and is esti- of them during our travels. this constant cycling diffi- dle boat on the Murray River mated to be at least 700,000 · Regularly eating won- culty! A great relief for Jim at Echeuca, a former busy years old. derful breakfasts of bacon and too!

WEEDS ‘N’ YOUR WILDLIFE, YOUR SAY WASTE By Jonathan Willet & with scientists, naturalists, and improve the numbers of ARE YOU AWARE of any Stewart Eastaugh experts and enthusiasts to pro- otters in the district. areas in the village where duce 18 draft habitat and All these individual ac- there is a particular litter prob- ver wonder why the species action plans. These tion plans will go into one big ranger got you to heap are what we’re asking you to plan known as our Local lem or that have escaped the all those branches and take a look at. Biodiversity Action Plan. By Council’s yearly weed killer E programme? If so, please twigs into compact piles in If you have ever won- aiming to improve the lot of Milndavie Glen? Or why, for dered where all the skylarks 50 or so species and habitats place a note in the Commu- that matter, one minute you have gone or why we don’t we also hope to improve our nity Council suggestion box in were cutting down a tree only have otters in the Blane this is lot. If, for example, we were the library. to be planting another right by the place to look. If you’re to help the otter population Pickers are still avail- the stump? The answer is fascinated by weird mosses or survive and thrive then we will able from Duncan if you want biodiversity. Even in a small wonder where all the meadow have to manage our rivers and to tidy up your own area. wood like Milndavie Glen flowers have gone get in lochs more effectively. In do- there should be areas for dif- touch. A steering group made ing this we would have to sup- Phone him on 770555. ferent animals to live and dif- up of conservationists and land port river and loch shore habi- ferent trees growing side by managers have identified sev- tats like woodlands. This in side. All that work has helped eral mammals, birds, reptiles, turn would help to support a create a natural variety or di- plants and habitats that we can greater number and variety of versity in the plant and ani- all help to save at a time when insects which would mean mal life of the glen. The piles much of Scotland’s wildlife is more food for bats as well as of cut wood give homes for a in decline. fish thereby improving the lots huge range of insects which The draft habitat and of 2 other species on the list: provide food for birds and species action plans are ba- the pipistrelle bat and the At- small mammals like shrews sically just that. They identify lantic salmon. and voles. The rowan and ha- a bird, animal, plant or habi- zel trees will provide fruit that tat and give you a brief sum- So if you want to have GARDENING will do the same...support a mary of how it’s doing locally, your say over the future of our greater diversity of living nationally and even interna- wildlife take a look at the first CLUB things. tionally. For the otter for in- volume of the Biodiversity In May you will have stance it may say that while Action Plan, available in you the first opportunity to help their numbers are increasing library or from your Local The AGM plan the future of the area’s locally they are still under Biodiversity Action Plan will be held on wildlife. threat and that many are run Officer (me) in May. (Tel- Friday 27th April Over the past 6 over by cars. Then comes the ephone 01786 442768 or e- months Stirling Coun- action where suggestions will mail [email protected] at 8pm 6 cil has worked together be made as to how to protect for more information). in the Village Club would like to dip a toe in the internet surfing scene. The sessions will take place in May and details can be ob- tained from any of us in the Lynne (again!!) village. library. In previous editions of Finally, a little “Recom- emember the £2000 for the Blane, some of the main mend a Read” example Y2000, the Village amounts were mentioned so I Author: James Long RMillenium Appeal don’t want to repeat them, but Title: “Silence and Shadows” which was ongoing all through money was raised by the - A fascinating tale of two last year? I have just closed Guides, Strathblane Church, Lynne James types of rock, when a punk the account with a cheque for the Women’s Guild, the Li- musician turned archaeologist WaterAid of £2,402.31 which brary, the Fun Hut and an t long last here in the is a brilliant amount, consid- anonymous donor. The money library we have got our ering it was run separately raised by the Burns Club at A“Recommend a Read” from the Millenium Fun Run the Ceilidh they arranged went scheme off the ground...and and represents the work of all into the Fun Run Account and onto a space in the library ! sorts of groups throughout the is not reflected in this total. We are all looking forward to people using this space to pin up their com- WEB ROADSHOWS ments on any of the books they have borrowed from the li- THE ONE FOOT in the Web For further details on brary. Road Show will start touring the Roadshows telephone Ian the Stirling Council area from McCourt, Community Sup- So far we have had th to use willing volunteers to fill Thursday 19 April from port, 01877 331766 Killin to provide come and try in forms and the results have computing sessions for the LIBRARY been very promising, recom- over 50s. Hours of Opening mended books have been The Council hopes to taken out by readers willing encourage more older people Monday 10 - 1, 2 - 5 to try something a bit differ- Lynne James has plenty of to take an interest in comput- Tuesday 10.30 - 1, 3 - 8 ent because it has been rec- ers, find out more about new Wednesday closed ommended. great ideas for a good read technology, the benefits it can Thursday 10.30 - 1, 3 - 7 Help us to keep this bring and take part in future Friday 10 - 1, 2 - 5 noticeboard lively and full of takes his first dig and finds an classes in the area. Saturday 10 - 1 “Recommendareads”! ancient burial mound which The Roadshows and Following the success of seems to exert a strange fas- Basic ICT Skills Courses are If a book is not stocked by last year’s “One Foot In the cination both on his team and run by Stirling Council in us, it can be obtained for a Web Roadshow” we are hold- various village members. partership with Clackmannan fee of 50p. Children’s re- ing another morning of tu- Time Team was never as in- College, Falkirk College and quests for children’s books tored sessions for any one who teresting as this ! the New Opportunities Fund. are free.

7 hillside towards the cliffs, just Clydesiders. It was as they THE CREAGH DHU on the 1,400 foot contour. were coiling their manilla line Sanders had been here before at the top that they noticed and the gap in his broad and they had company: two doc- MOUNTAINEERING CLUB often employed grin was the tors on their way south along Bob Sharp Andy Sanders when he set out legacy of an earlier attempt on the track from Earls Seat. As- from his home in Clydebank Coffin Gully, the deep black tonished to see two bodies hen I arrived in on a spring weekday in 1930. cleft in the centre of the crag, clad in ill-fitted, buttoned cor- Blanefield in 1974 I First he took a tramride to when a loosened rock hit him duroy lumber-jackets and with W quickly spotted the rural Milngavie north of Glas- full in the face and removed a baggy trousers tucked into crags behind the new houses gow then, with a puttees, emerge from the and various ‘lines’ that might c o m p a n i o n depths below, the gentlemen ‘go’. With a colleague we tramped, clinker – hikers hastened over and there tackled a broken line up steep nailed boots ringing followed something approxi- crags - never to be repeated on the tarmac – mating the following conver- because it was so loose. Lit- along the remainder sation: tle did we know how impor- of the A87 to the tant that little crag was. The village of First doctor: “Good heav- following text is taken from Blanefield, above ens, man, have you just the new biography of John which Slack Dhu climbed up there?” Cunningham - ‘Creagh Dhu and its conical out- Sanders: “Aye, that’s right, Climber’. post of Dumgoyne, Jimmy, no’ as hard as I “Slack Dhu is the near- do their best, in thought.” est thing to the traditional con- their own modest First doctor: “But that has cept of a crag that the way, totower.It was never been climbed before, Campsies can muster amidst a fine day and al- it’s a first ascent!” their rounded sprawl from though in the past Sanders: “Aye, well, that’s Kilsyth close to Cumbernauld Sanders had used as maybe, but it was good in the east to picturesque his thumb to hitch fun an’ a’ and anyway I Killearn, the stockbroker belt from Clydeside out dinnae even ken the name bolt hole of Glasgow, on the into the hills north of yon crag.” A825 in the west. Sub divided of the city, he and by winding Broads into their his mate were in no It was then that the geographical subordinates of hurry; like some Photo courtesy of Eric Taylor other doctor, who had re- Creagh Dhu mained silent until then but the Touch Hills, Kilsyth Hills 120,000 other un- who was obviously a local ex- and Fintry Hills, the Campsies employed Glaswegians of that front tooth. This time his tar- pert, interrupted. offer fine walks of easy gra- year, they had time on their get was the two – tiered out- “It’s called the Black dient below the 2,000 foot hands. At Blanefield the two crop on the right of the es- Crag,” he said, “although contour – and all within a bus mountaineers turned right carpment and a route directly some locals know it by the ride of Glasgow. But their along the Campsie Dene road, up its face which, after a Gaelic name, Creagh Dhu...” crumbling dolerite outcrops hastened on tip toe past the struggle with loose rock, ver- And so the Creagh Dhu and vegetated gullies are vir- gamekeeper’s cottage – Slack tical grass and vegetation, Mountaineering Club saw its tually worthless to the man Dhu like most of the Campsies eventually succumbed to the birth on a scruffy crag in the with boots and rope. in those days was on private determination and bloody- Campsies just behind Not that that deterred land – and then struck up the mindedness of the two Blanefield!”

YOUTH CLUB Sue Rand There is obviously a need for a youth club in our village but, hen the clocks went for it to continue, we will need forward in March, new committee members. We Wthe Youth Club fin- also still require adults to help ished its first successful ses- out on Tuesdays (they don’t sion. have to be your kids). So, if Attendance and interest you would like to work with remained throughout the win- the young people and you have ter weeks, where the Youth a couple of spare hours on Club provides a safe, warm some Tuesdays (it need not be and interesting environment every week) please contact for its members. Sue Rand on 770630. • FUNCTIONS • PARTIES Susan Drew and Sandy Bauld were enlisted as our SCOUTS • WEDDINGS • CELEBRATIONS Youth Club leaders and pro- • NIGHTSOUT vided an enthusiastic atmos- SPRING phere. With the support of • AIRPORT, BUS & RAILWAY TRANSFERS some parents, we had an adult CLEAN presence every Tuesday ON APRIL 26th and 27th the • TOURS • APPOINTMENTS... evening. The committee in- Scouts, Guides, Brownies, tend to organise a meeting, Cubs and Beavers will carry open to ALL parents, at which out their annual clean up of These are just some of the places we will discuss the possibil- the village. that we can drive you to ity of continuing the Club in Last year they collected and/or collect you from. the Autumn. 28 bags of rubbish plus other We hope to use feed- interesting items from the back from YC members and burn. Phone Alba Cars on ideas from interested It is a real service to the parents about the range village. They deserve our sup- 01360 771321 8 of activities available. port and sponsorship. with them. Of the five visu- ally impaired walkers the two THE BRAVEST PEOPLE girls had travelled from Edin- burgh the same morning. I felt quite guilty when I learnt team would join the group for that they had commuted by IN THE WORLD! the day. Following long con- train, minibus and car already PART 1 rienced the arduous and some- versations with both George that morning whilst I had times harrowing task of and the programme’s pro- rolled out of bed an hour ear- Bob Sharp searching for lost walkers and ducer I was left with a fairly lier and travelled just a short have carried many people ei- clear picture of the day, al- distance. ther ill or injured off the hill. though a little unsure about Dorothy and Rosaline August 23 rd 1969 was an how it would unfold and what turned out to be two real char- equally interesting and unfor- our specific responsibilities acters, outgoing and buoyant, gettable day that bought me would be. In fact, if there who kept us all on our toes into contact with a group of were any difficulties at all, it all day. Dorothy had been people who have been de- was coping with the eccen- blind from birth and Rosaline scribed as ‘the brav- had lost her sight when about six years of age. est people in the On previous expedi- world’. tions they had both The Milton been cycling, rock Mountaineers is a climbing and abseiling. small group of hill The three men in- walkers, the majority cluded Duncan, an Ab- of who are visually erdonian, who had impaired or blind. made the initial contact Their leader, George with the BBC and he Scottish hills always Male, a stalwart Eng- Alastair, a well-known present something new. lishman in his ’70s, local hillgoer who had TThe weather, season, delights in bringing to- lost his sight in recent terrain and company often gether both sighted years. It transpired combine in a way that makes and blind walkers to organize small-scale that Alastair had been the traverse of even the same Tough at the top involved in building the hill a new and fresh experi- expeditions where all first ski chairlift in ence. Ben Lomond is no ex- can enjoy the hills to- Glencoe and he enthralled us ception. I have walked up Ben gether. The nationwide group tricities of the film crew – of with fascinating stories of Lomond on many occasions was formed in 1969, and they which, more later! climbing and skiing forays in and the hill has always pro- meet occasionally to climb The chosen day dawned the ‘40s and ‘50s. vided a surprise or new expe- hills throughout Great Britain. quiet and still with little or no George suggested that rience. I have waded through At least once a year they wind. As pre-arranged, we we might each like to accom- deep fresh snow and suc- tackle one of the classics such all assembled at 9.00am on pany one of our blind col- cumbed to the strongest winds as Ben Nevis or Snowdon. the pier at Rowardennan - four leagues and stay with that per- I have ever encountered in the Their goal in 1989 was Ben of us from the rescue team son all day. Bruce and I paired Scottish hills. I have played a Lomond and this was a spe- together with eight of the up with Dorothy, whilst An- game of volleyball on the long cial occasion because the Milton Mountaineers and the gus and Dave joined Rosaline. ridge, worked with radio climb was to be filmed by five-strong film crew. My initial concerns about how ‘hams’, marshalled charity BBC Scotland for their popu- The scene was tranquil to guide were quite un- walks and had the pleasure of lar mid-day ‘Garden Party’ and relaxed. Angus, Bruce, founded. I had expected to introducing many others to the programme. To assist, the Dave and myself - the MR have to give a running com- delights of Scottish hill walk- BBC asked if some of us from team - mingled with the walk- mentary, describing the ing. In addition, I have expe- the Lomond Mountain Rescue ers and we quickly felt at one ground’s features, but quickly realised it was totally unnec- SPECIAL essary. Both Dorothy and ROBERTSONS Rosaline had the rest of us UPLIFTS Architectural marveling at their uncanny Consultants ability to move rapidly across THECOUNCIL provides broken ground whilst main- special uplifts of household, taining non-stop repartee. Bruce, who is a master at the non-household and large vol- art of conversation (he umes of waste. SELF CATERING blethers quite a lot!), was fas- Prices start at £5 for cinated and quite envious at household and £15.25 for non- BLANEFIELD this display of skill, which household. contrasted quite markedly For more information with his frequent stumbles and or to request this service, PLANNING spills! It was interesting to phone Clarence on freefone • Extension? watch Dorothy follow Bruce 0800 232323 when the path was narrow. On Available all year • Dormer? • Internal Alterations? these occasions she held Why not advertise in Short breaks lightly onto his rucksack and this newsletter. It followed in his footsteps. In reaches 1000 homes - Reasonable rates We provide full fact, most of the time she that would cost nearly Sleeps 5/6 Architectural Services: placed her feet exactly where £200 if you used the  Initial Design Bruce placed his, apparently doing this by feeling the move- mail. • Washing machine Applying for Building Our rates are very & ments of his rucksack. reasonable. • Open fire in lounge Planning Approvals Phone us and ask for • Garden • Parking In the next part of this our rates. We can also   01360 771 280 article Bob will describe the provide artwork for an Sheila email: remarkable achieve- extra fee. [email protected] ment of the ascent and  01360 770716  01360 770266 the filming. 9 ing weekend. That was the the first team’s success is a only lost game of the whole rich seam of young talent. RUGBY REVIEW season – dashing hopes of a The hours they put into train- clean sheet. But equilibrium ing alongside the seniors is John Perry league sponsors BT. The was restored a week later, in reaping rewards in their own Blane Four (Dave Barrett, the final match of the season, leagues. The feed-through ell, the season’s just Stuart ‘Speedy’ Orr, Jamie when Strathaven visited Fintry from Balfron High School, about done and Kerr and physio Nikola plus the commitment of the Wdusted and Thomson), all of whom club to coaching and setting Strathendrick played key roles in the great up close season tours for the Firsts have achievement, were there at the ‘up-and-comings’ is encour- achieved their kill. The day helped erase the aging players who will, in goal and won memory of Scotland’s lacklus- time, make their marks. promotion to tre victory over Italy at Let’s hope that we shall be BT Scotland Murrayfield the previous af- able to focus on more Blane N a t i o n a l ternoon. talent as it emerges from League Divi- Within a few days of the those ranks to do regular sion 4. They championship decider the fly- service with the Firsts in the put them- ing redheaded winger Jamie near future. selves in an Kerr was flying away to Aus- Finally, with sunshine unassailable tralia to play a season in Bris- in prospect and position at the bane. He’ll miss the good Strathendrick’s special sea- top of the Di- summer weather the pundits son drawing to a close, why vision 5 (West) table by beat- have forecast, but will doubt- not treat yourselves to a cou- ing second-placed Hamilton in less come back with a few ple of festive outings to a gritty battle at the Ruth southern hemisphere tricks to Fintry? On April 21st it’s Menzies Memorial Ground at enliven Strathendrick’s Div 4 th the Strathendrick Sevens, Fintry on Sunday 18 March performances next winter. Dave Barrett, Stewart Orr, Nikola guaranteed to provide a daz- 2001. The 21 – 3 score line Good luck, Jamie. We had Thomson and Jamie Kerr looking zling display of fast, open suggests the victory was easier hoped to feature Jamie in this th rightly cheerful play. Then on May 5 the than it was, but it was imma- issue, but hadn’t catered for annual Captain’s versus terial when it came to the fi- his speedy departure. President’s XVs will surely nal whistle. The team received Sadly ‘Endrick lost and were on the receiving end produce the usual star-studded rapturous applause from their their next league match, with of a 24 – 5 ‘seeing to’. high-scoring encounter to supporters followed by the Di- Hamilton gaining revenge on Time now to remember round off this memorable vision 5 West silverware from their own ground the follow- that waiting in the shadow of year. Be there! FOOTBALL MATTERS BOWLING Forrest Robertson Edmonstone Hall on 19th May CLUB so look out for the posters giv- PARENTS STRATHENDRICK Under ing further details. This date Stan Govan 18 football club has been slog- coincides with the end of the ASSOCIATION ging away through its first season and the boys are plan- Nikola Thomson t’s that time of year again winter and really deserve a ning a big night out later with - spring with a long hot break. an awards ceremony includ- am disappointed to report summer to come! Ideal for Jim McNeill‘s young ing a Player of the Season tro- that as a result of our re I bowling. charges have had rotten luck phy. quest in the Blane for a but, as I’ve mentioned before, Alistair Campbell has I We will be delighted to football coach to help us re- they’re up against pretty ex- been shirt sponsor throughout instate the school football welcome new members - and perienced opposition most of this maiden season and Walter old ones of course. We start the time but have been getting at Spar Stores has been club team, we had only one reply off with the Gents Opening closer and closer to that elu- soft drink supplier and every- … from a young man in Day on Saturday 21st April sive first win, going down by one connected with the club Killearn. I am, however, glad to write that since then we and the Ladies on the follow- the odd goal on several occa- greatly appreciates the help ing day. If you haven’t been sions. Moral has kept up and provided by these worthies, have had another two appli- the enthusiasm’s still there but the boys need a funding cants for the post. before, come and watch! You with a coterie of 18 to 19 boys boost now to swell the kitty I would, therefore, like can’t miss us. We are right on turning up for training every over the summer months, with to hear from all parents, the A81 by the Village Club. week even during the bitter a view to making a real splash whose children are interested If you want to know weather in February. Jim is come August so, big cheques in playing – in order to form more about the club, give me quietly confident that, with 11 or a small sponsorship deal, an interview panel – and get a call on 770982. games still to be played, points Jim would love to hear from the ball rolling (excuse the will click onto the scoreboard YOU. Help YOUR village before long. youth footballers. Ring him pun!). In typically positive today on 770 474. The idea is to start with fashion, he has sent off the football training for the kids club’s application for season and then later hopefully 2001-02 and is already look- Congratulations to 16 progress to matches. The lat- ing towards next Easter with year-old Olympic ter, however, will require a lot a view to arranging a tour ei- equestrian Gold of parental support to help get ther to England or the conti- medalist Leanne Peters the team to and from games. nent where spring youth tour- I look forward to hear- naments are arranged by most who will be competing again in the Special Ol- ing from you – without you big clubs eg. Ajax, Clubbe the Strathblane Primary Brugge, Paris St.Germain etc. ympics in July. School football team will be To help fund this, the She won her Gold unable to regroup. club has organised a medal in North Carolina Please contact me on 10 race night/disco in the in the 1999 Olympics. 770822. Gartmore and Aberfoyle. line stopping at intervals to is that it was infested with rab- Drymen station was on the load ammunition from the line bits. The banking at the side Local Balloch section of the line. side into the The Blane Valley and vans. At Forth and Clyde railways were Buchlyvie we call... taken over by the North Brit- picked up an- ish Railway in 1891 and then other 20 vans im Craig and his wife by the LNER in 1923. They – now we had Mary moved to became part of British Rail- 40 in all – JStrathblane from ways on nationalisation. B.R. and so we Milngavie about four years closed the lines in 1951. needed an- ago to be near their daughter other engine and her family. Jim originally I REMEMBER IT WELL as well. This came from Maryhill but was was called a no stranger to the area. He had The Blane Valley line d o u b l e - spent his working life on the closed 50 years ago yet I still header. We railways and had driven many a train through Strathblane in the old days. Here Jim gives us a short history of the Blane Valley Railway and also shares with us some fond memories. THE HISTORY Jim Craig and new engine on the Balloch line The Blane Valley Rail- of the line was, like it still is way was opened on the first now, perforated with rabbit of July 1867 and ran from holes. Engineers would bring Lennoxtown to Killearn. A ashes out from time to time few years later, in 1882 it was to build up the banking and extended from Killearn to try to fill in the burrows. Gartness. The first station out I also remembered that of Lennoxtown was at just before the line closed an Campsie Glen, near the gates entire farm was transported by of the old hospital. The next train from the Balfron area. station was Strathblane. This It was going to England some- was situated near the begin- Last passenger train at Blanefield station in 1958 was laid on where. It was an odd looking ning of what is now the cycle for enthusiasts. Spot a youthful Willie Wallace on the left! trainasit wasmade up ofcat- track and just behind Blane tle trucks, open wagons hold- Valley Construction. The line have vivid memories of work- didn’t leave Buchlyvie till ing farm machinery, vans full then ran along the Blane burn ing on the line both as a fire- midnight and as we were des- of household goods and even and through what is now the man and a driver. The tined for Rothesay Dock we a passenger carriage with folk park and stopped at the next Aberfoyle goods train left came through Strathblane in in it. There must have been station, Blanefield. This was Cadder yard, Bishopbriggs, the early hours of the morn- about 20 vans in all. beside Station Road at the foot every day from Monday to ing. It was a steep climb from On a final note, there of the Cuilt Brae. As the train Saturday at 5 o’clock in the Blanefield Station up to was a film made many years then had to cross the road, morning. The train would be Strathblane Station and with ago about a fictional young there was a level crossing con- made up of coal, vans full of trolled by a signalman. There various types of goods as well was also a level crossing at as cattle and sheep. Unoffi- Dumgoyne. The next station cially, we would sometimes was called Killearn but it was give coal to the crossing actually some distance from keeper and even hot water the village. from the engine on wash days. The BVR was single We simply filled a tub at the track and used the Tyler elec- line side at Ballat and Ballwull tric token block system. This crossings. guaranteed that only one train During the war a work- could be on a section of track ers’ train left Strathblane at 7 between signal boxes. The in the morning and called at driver was handed a token by all stations to Clydebank. It the signalman as he entered carried folk that had been the section and he had to give evacuated from Clydebank to back it to the next signalman the safety of Strathblane back when he left that section of to the jobs they still had in the track. shipyards and so on beside the Strathblane Station The Forth and Clyde river. railway ran from Balloch to I recall clearly working the two engines and the 40 man called Jamie - also the Stirling and joined the Blane a special train as a young fire- vans it made a right racket. I name of the film. He made it Valley Railway at Gartness man back in September 1942. remember wondering at the to the Olympics and left Scot- junction. This meant that peo- We were to take an engine and time if it would wake up the land on the great journey from ple living in the Blane area brake van from Cowlairs and villagers sleeping in their beds Gartmore station. The engine could get a train to Balloch or proceed to Stirling. At Stir- and what they would make of driver who actually drove the Stirling. There were stations ling we picked up 20 vans and it. engine in the film, was at Balfron, Buchlyvie, soldiers and then made our My other main memory a good mate of mine. way along the Forth and Clyde of the line through Strathblane 11 turn an art into a massacre, a tree. The kind BTCV mem- “OH, I’M ALUMBER- and two hours later were bers smiled sympathetically at still sawing the same poor us as we hacked our way tree. I would like to be able through the undergrowth, JACK AND I’M OK…” to tell you that it was a turning a deaf ear to the cries Cerys MacGillivray hands of the BTCV (no mean particularly big tree, and our of “Would you like to try this feat for one man!), and they saw was particularly blunt – one… it’s really small… hon- ell, actually I’m not, turned our enthusiasm into but that would be taking estly!”. Patsy Fischbacher and this fact was hard – very hard – work. The poetic license a bit far. The made the fatal mistake of driven home to me in principle of the work was truth is, the tree was quite putting her fantastic tree/ noW uncertain terms on Satur- quite straightforward. Basi- small, and our shrub clippers down while she day 24th March 2001. Feel- cally, Stewart used green saw was went to fetch tea and coffee ing rather smug, I headed for spray-paint to mark the trees suitably for everyone, and soon they the glen to ‘do my bit’ for the that were to be felled. BTCV, sharp. The were in my merciless hands. village – clearing shrubs and and a few villagers, would b l a m e I became a woman possessed, felling trees in order to en- then chop the trees down us- therefore has and Eleanor and I more than courage the growth of wood- ing bow saws and elbow to lie with our com- made up for our earlier female land plants and flowers. Ac- grease. Meanwhile, else- p l e t e lack of skill failings. companied by my trusty side- where in the shady glen a loan a n d By four o’clock Eleanor kick (Eleanor Forrest), and tree-planter put her shovel to strength. and I decided we couldn’t armed with gardening gloves, great use and planted saplings N e v e r be- fore manage any more, so we juice (non-alcoholic!) and a (don’t ask me why we were have I felt quite so sloped off home, satisfied with sense of humour we presented planting trees and cutting f e m a l e , blond, our efforts. On reflection, one ourselves to Stewart Eastaugh them down at the same time and pa- thetic as I thing that stood out was the (Stirling Council Ranger – a – I think it is to do with en- did when the two incredible dedication of the bit like the loan ranger but couraging plant diversity. BTCV guys took over. BTCV people who worked without the horse). Mine is not to reason why…) Obviously Eleanor and non-stop all day, and were still I was surprised to find Within an hour and a I had done the bulk of at it when we left. They do so many people already hard half (approximately) the the work, and that not live in our village, yet put at work when I got there. work in the glen was was why it only took in at least 6 hours work in Most of the folk were mem- complete. I feel a moment them a few minutes to finish order to improve our environ- bers of the BTCV organisation of digression is necessary the job!! ment. – a group dedicated to the here. As already men- We slipped home to The play park was van- improvement of all things tioned, Eleanor and I were Eleanor’s for a bite to eat, and dalised recently and, until it plant-like. They’ll tackle any- keen to do our bit for then headed to Park Place, is made less secluded and thing from school gardens to conservation and plant where the next round of clear- easier to see, we are unlikely overgrown glens in order to management. So we happily ing was taking place. Having to get funding to replace the make the environment as plant volunteered to fell a tree learned wisely from our damaged facilities. There will and animal friendly as possi- ourselves. Under the steady morning’s experience, be another opportunity to ble. gaze of a BTCV member, we Eleanor and I headed straight complete the clearing of this Stewart handed Eleanor were educated in the art of for the small bushes, avoid- area on 12th May. Please and myself into the capable tree felling. We managed to ing all things that resembled come along and lend a hand.

• Milndavie Crescent - The first stage of the consultation process towards the formation of a one-way system has been completed. A large majority of the residents are in favour. Following the legal advertisement of the proposal and consid- eration of any subsequent objection, the matter will be submit- ted to the full Council for decision. • Footway crossings - Stirling Council will subsidise the pro- vision of footway crossings to encourage people to take their vehicles off the road. The subsidised amount which residents pay is £360 at present. If you would like an application form or wish further information, contact Caroline Stewart on 01786 442864. • Collapsed walls - a) The wall at the entrance to the library “Bigfoot” is alive and well in the Glen car park was damaged by a vehicle. It has since been repaired but then immediately vandalised. The work will be finished off as soon as possible. b) The top of the wall at the corner of Dear Editor... the steps leading from Campsie View Drive to the A81 has collapsed. The debris will be removed by the Council but the McKellar in this post, wall will not be rebuilt. c) The end of the wall at the top of the Praise for Village Officer particularl so on the 28/02/01 Ash Track has also fallen. This has been referred to West of The Lunch Club when the snow of the 26th Scotland Water. Edmonstone Hall drifted on the 27th and froze on the 28th. • Bombay Cottage - The application for an off-sales licence at Unlike some other Without Duncan’s fore- the Indian Takeaway has been approved. Western Rural villages, thought and assistance in en- Strathblane/Blanefield is for- suring areas were gritted the • Recycling - The paper bins are in the library car park and lunch club would have had to plans are being drawn up to site a wooden pavilion for glass tunate in having a village of- and cans also in this area. There will be an opportunity for ficer. We consider be cancelled. comment and planning permission will be required before any ourselves doubly fortu- Thank you Duncan action will be taken. 12 nate in having Duncan from us all. you need? A screen or a pro- jector? Forrest: No I don’t think so. Me: I hope you don’t mind me asking but a friend would like to find out about her hus- band’s relative, Alexander Rhind. I know you’re busy but any… Forrest: Alexander Rhind, my, my! Played in the first ever Scotland/England game Murray O Donnell at Hamilton Crescent, 1872. You know there is no photo- t the February meeting graph of the teams of that of the Heritage Society, game. No, the Scottish play- AAlison Dryden pre- ers kept sticking out their sented a light hearted quiz tongues at the photographer followed by a talk illustrated and he stormed off. with slides. She then answered Me: Susan wanted….. questions from an interested Forrest: He was signed by audience, who joined in with Queen’s Park for the 1870/ comments both factual and 1871 season and played humorous. against Northern football club Ruby dispensed wine in a 5-0 win on the 6th No- and soft drinks and a grand vember 1875. selection of cheeses with bis- Me: Susan wanted… cuits. On display were numer- Forrest: Alexander Rhind, ous information sheets and my my! He was a commer- photographs. Alison also had cial traveller you know. He samples of the new brochures broke his leg and that was the she is producing of the UF end of his career. The break The focus of attention is a water pump in the Village Club. Church, the railway and poet was badly set and that was It is not any old water pump but the first pump to be in- Thomas Thorpe. These, along that. with other titles, will soon be Me: She was asking… stalled in Scotland to operate the organ of the United Free on sale in the library at 50p Forrest: He moved to Inver- church. per copy. ness in 1873 and he became A local business man, hearing of our interest in the This was our informal the President of Inverness pump, donated the funds, allowing the Heritage Society to evening and the large number Caledonian Football Club. He purchase it. I have been in contact with an expert on such of friends, visitors and mem- died in Aberdeen in 1922 aged matters and hope to find out just how the organ operated. I bers enjoyed a fine evening. 72. am sure the organist of the day would have enjoyed the type All this for £1.50 to cover the Me: Forrest, that is brilliant. of weather we have been having recently, with Jenny’s burn drinks and “eats” – make sure I’ll pass this on to Susan, in full flow. The congregation would have enjoyed some you don’t miss it next year. thanks very much. So okay In fact, try not to miss any of then for next month? rousing renditions. our meetings. You can be Forrest: Sure thing that’s the The photograph shows Jim McCutcheon, Alastair Dick sure of a warm welcome - the 15th. and Frank McArthur examining the pump. membership fee is only £3 for Me: No, Forrest, the 14th, the the season. 14th of March. Most, if not all, of our Forrest: Yes, of course. Al- speakers are experts in their exander Rhind, my, my! subject and their enthusiasm Me: Bye Forrest. is infectious, none more so Forrest presented the OLD MILL than the speaker for the March March meeting to an inter- meeting, Forrest Robertson. ested number of members and Forrest is well known in foot- guests. His topic was the ori- ball circles for his historical gins of Scottish football illus- COMPETITION trated by slides. This was fol- knowledge, and is an author Congratulations to the winner of the competition in of a book about Queen’s Park lowed by a question and an- Football Club. Among his swer session: Member Frank the February issue. It was Maureen at the Chemist. other claims to fame are his McArthur related his recollec- (Brain box!!) Thanks to everyone who participated. contributions to the Blane and tion of the night of the Blitz. Keith Kemsley at the Old Mill has again offered a prize Sixty years ago to the day, the he provides marvelous articles th of a voucher for £15 towards a meal and also a bottle on Strathblane football origins 14 March, 1941, Frank, a and reports on the present member of the local scouts, of wine to wash it down. This will go to the person clubs. was returning to his home in who can answer these questions about the village. Susan Rhind asked if I Killearn, when the two land Winner will be drawn from correct entries received could approach Forrest, and mines fell, one at Sunnyside by end of May. ask him if he could supply any and the other to the rear of information about her hus- the Edmonstone Hall. band’s relative, Alexander 1. Where is Jenny’s Lum? (That’s dead easy!) Rhind. A few days later I 2. Where was there a Bronze Age find in the village phoned Forrest to confirm ar- ODD BALLS rangements for the next meet- in 1982? ing - the man is nothing short A LOCAL LADY is knitting 3. When was the Edmonstone Hall built? of amazing. The phone call 4. When was St. Kessogs Church built? went something like this: a blanket for charity and is Me: Hello Forrest, it’s looking for extra wool. If 5. What member of the Royal Family visited and Murray, everything OK for the you have any odd or left over stayed at Duntreath Castle? (Don’t answer why!!) th 14 March? balls of wool she would be 6. Where is the Deil’s Craig Dam? Forrest: Oh Hello Murray. delighted to have them. I meant to phone you. Yes 7. Where was Mrs Jolly’s house? everything’s okay. Please hand them into 13 Me: Good, is there anything the Chemist Shop. 13 BANDSTAND READY Iain Arnott agreed to open Craigend Visi- be noted that the Khyber car n April, our new Victorian tor Centre only, allowing ac- park is still closed. This rec- garden at Craigend will be he national foot-and- cess to site traders and main ognises the low level of risk Icomplete. This site, once mouth crises has had an car park. It became clear that attributed to the spread of mature, will offer great oppor- Timmense effect on all at best, regular risk assess- foot-and-mouth in most areas tunities for leisure and relaxa- rural communities and this in- ment would be required be- but at the same time we are tion. cludes restricted access to fore further relaxation of ac- maintaining sensible controls As part of this project, most country parks through- cess would be permitted. The in other areas where cattle are a Bandstand was constructed out the United Kingdom. Country Park has continued to present and where the risk to act as a venue for the arts. It has and continues to monitor the current national may be greater. Although we have a busy pro- be important that all parks act trend and follow guidance gramme of music developing responsibly by supporting the from the two Councils. Anyone who wishes throughout the year, we wish guidance provided by the After another risk as- further information and regu- to encourage local musicians Scottish Execu- lar updates to take advantage of the venue tive and should contact for practice or performance. M.A.F.F. the park office This is a great opportu- M u g d o c k on 0141 956 nity for local artists to develop Country Park 6100 or by vis- their skills in public with a has been and iting our guaranteed audience. Quality continues to website at of musician is not the impor- follow this www.mugdock- tant factor. The importance is guidance, as in- c o u n t r y - to develop that ability and terpreted by park.org.uk what better a venue to do this E a s t than at Mugdock. Dunbartonshire and Stirling Councils to en- sure there is a WHAT’S ON? level of consist- Emergency First Aid Course ency through- Saturday 21st April (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.) out this area. Leven First Aid Training Organisation will guide As a re- you through this certificated course offering an sult of such di- excellent opportunity for adults to develop their rection, a deci- first aid skills. sion to close the Meet at the Visitor Centre. Booking essential. Country Park New band stand in the Plantaria. See article above right. Charge £25 includes lunch. to visitors was taken on 2 March 2001. Af- sessment exercise on Wednes- Spring Clean Lennoxtown to Kirkintilloch Cycle Walkway ter speaking to Edward day 21 March, the park was Saturday 21st April (10.30 a.m. - 3 p.m.) (Subject to Foot Pickard, owner of Dumbrock given permission to open and Mouth restrictions) Moor, agreement was reached some countryside to visitors Enjoy a leisurely walk along this old railway line and help to prevent access to this area including, upper Gallowhill, clear up any litter at the same time. Jointly led by Mugdock also. Such restrictions would the Overflow Field, Craigend Ranger Service and Kelvin Valley Project. Return transport remain in place until further Pond, Pheasants Wood and provided. Meet at Station Road Park, Lennoxtown. Bring a guidance might allow the re- Pietches Moor. Again, after packed lunch. laxation of such prohibition. discussion with the owner of On Tuesday 13 March, Dumbrock Moor, he permit- Orienteering for Everyone - Visitor Centre and after a full risk assess- ted access to this site also. Thursday 26th April - Start Time 6.30 p.m. - 7.30 p.m. ment exercise carried out by There are still access restric- Young or old, beginner or expert, orienteering is for everyone. both East Dunbartonshire and tions in some areas of the Clydeside Orienteers will set up a variety of courses and will Stirling Councils, it was Country Park, and it should be on hand to show you the way. Meet at the Visitor Centre. Charge, adults £1. Juniors 50p Visiting the countryside? WILDLIFERESERVES Follow the xcept for the southern sheep grazing in the fields Comeback Code parts of Scotland, the here. EScottish Wildlife Trust Please ensure any dogs Help us to prevent the risk of spreading Foot-and- has relaxed restrictions on are kept under control and Mouth Disease by following the Comeback Code when access to some wildlife re- they do not enter areas other you visit the countryside serves or parts of reserves than around the nature trail. where there are no grazing Possil Marsh Wildlife • Respect advisory signs and requests from farm- animals. Reserve is also open to the ers and other land managers. Accordingly the Nature public, via a circular path • Keep dogs on a lead at all times. Trail at Loch Ardinning Wild- round the loch, but Ballagan • Do not touch or feed farm animals. life Reserve (starting at the Glen Wildlife Reserve re- • Do not enter enclosed fields with farm animals. dam) is open to the public, but mains closed until further no- • Avoid farm steadings and yards. we ask, please, that there tice. • Do not leave waste or scraps of food or litter. should be no access beyond Thank you for your co- • Do not park your car in areas where farm ani- the fence at the end of the operation. If you have any fur- mals gather. nature trail onto the muir East ther queries about SWT re- • Clean your boots and vehicles between visits to of the loch, where there are serves please contact the West the countryside. cattle grazing. Regional Office, telephone • Obey official signs. Additionally please do 0141-248-4647. A leaflet on not enter the reserve from the the Loch Ardinning nature Please be careful with our countryside - avoid southern end (near or oppo- trail is available from the re- putting farm animals and people's livelihoods site the turn-off to Mugdock serve convenor, David 14 at risk. Country Park) since there are Shenton, on 0141-776-5506. could fly, my motorbike. My Spanish blank, demanded to see the with my had become quite good when manager and was determined CRUISIN’ ON ‘Thunderbird’, it came to talking bikes, but to wait there till I could get cheaply and by 2.00am, when I was sit- my bike – without paying up. Ken McLean easily to ting on the back of a Yamaha Colombian women grow old Medellin in northern Colom- DT125 off-road bike spinning with extreme grace, and when n last September’s issue of bia, in a day or so’s time. All around the city from one salsa the manageress asked me if Blane we left Ken and his I had to do was pay the money bar full of beautiful girls to I’d like a Colombian coffee Imotorbike in Central and deliver the bike to the another full of even more whilst I waited. … Yes? … America, having been ‘JUST cargo terminal with the tank beautiful girls. My conversa- “That’ll be $100 please” ... I CRUISIN’ through Canada empty. This done I went for a tion was getting thin! I knew I was going to have to and the USA. Here he con- beer (to help combat the ex- couldn’t believe my first night be careful not to fall in love tinues his epic journey into cessive heat) with a few in this country, it was as far with the country! South America, starting in friends I’d made in Panama, from my expectations as could My friends in Medellin Colombia. where I was reminded of be! The people were so had advised me where the In some ways I felt like where I’d heard the name friendly, I wasn’t a curiosity, risky areas of their country I was half way there, trying Medellin be- were (which of course didn’t to sleep in the Panamanian fore. My include their own back yard) heat. I had spent the last 9 friends took and I set off north towards months riding down from delight in tell- Cartagena with a twitch in my Nova Scotia with a concern ing stories of saddle. After my brief taste I at the back of my mind about P a b l o was determined to see Colom- this part of the journey...how Escobar, the bia in full. to get my Triumph FBI and the I knew my bike was up ‘Thunderbird’ from Panama general state to the challenge as in both City to South America safely, of lawless- Guatemala and Costa Rica it cheaply, and without a Car- ness to be had gone head to head in a net de Passage. After all, it found there ‘shootout’ with a friend on an had looked after me all the (of course XR600 and only come sec- way from Canada to Central this was all ond! There was no need to America and I was hoping it hearsay). It stick to the mountain roads, would take me all the way to took a good which could have been Tierra del Fuego. few beers to Knockhill circuit, and cer- After much deliberation settle my tainly no reason to leave them! I had at last made the deci- nerves and Biking heaven I thought, at sion to press on to Colombia, restore my least till I rounded a corner despite the continual promises courage for and faced two groups of peo- from people who had never the flight. ple, one on each side of the been there, of murder, kidnap I touched road, with a thick rope and abduction by drug down in stretched between them. My cartelistas (and if not them, M e d e l l i n heart raced in the red zone and terrorists or the police). But with a bang- I considered my options. I from those who had been ing head. It decided to slow down and con- there, and survived, the story was late on a centrate on keeping my last was different; and it was the Friday, and I meal where it should be. As I one I preferred. I have a fa- would have to stopped at the rope, ready to vourite memory from San wait till Mon- drop the clutch and try and Salvador, a once war-torn city, day morning barge my way through, one of where they were surprised I to get my the men approached me, had made it through Mexico bike. A weekend ‘to kill’ in a they were just genuinely nice “Amigo, we are collecting in one piece...of course they strange city, I thought, so I people, and there was a feel- money for the local hospital had never been to Mexico to booked an upmarket hotel and ing of security in the small and ambulance which is learn the real story. Not only took a taxi straight to it from hours I had missed in many funded by public donation can the grass be greener, but the airport. So far everyone I parts of Central America. would you care to...” HELL the streets more dangerous, on had seen was dressed in what On the Monday morn- YEAH!! And after much the other side. could have been Italian clothes ing at the freight carrier’s of- shaking of hands and slapping As has so often been the and looked very sophisticated. fice I was told I had to pay of backs I was on my way feel- case, the obstacles expected Obviously I was missing the what amounted to US$100 ing both stupid and relieved, to be the hardest to overcome true picture. I got talking to additional storage and han- but ready for anything!! turned out to be ‘walks in the the lads working in the hotel, dling charges to cover the More Colombian col- park’. I soon found that I about the impending arrival of weekend. I refused point our next issue …

LOCH ARDINNING DAM FORTH VALLEY HEALTH David Shenton moved from the original dam Prescription Charges MMR Vaccination structure to enable a new PLEA FOR INFORMATION You can save money if you If you have any concerns sluice pipe to be fitted, in late require regular prescrip- ABOUTANENGRAVED 1991. whatsoever regarding the STONE FROM THE ORIGI- It is not known to whom tions by applying for a pre- MMR Vaccination you NAL DAM paid prescription certificate. “J&MR” refers - whether it should, in the first instance, A finely dressed stone was the stone mason who cut A single prescription at engraved with “J & MR the stones for the sluice, or present costs £6.00. The discuss this with your GP or 1796” was built into the origi- the designer of the dam. current rates for prepaid Health Visitor. nal sluice structure, which are: The writer would be You can also contact was buried under the current very pleased to hear from any- pathway when the dam was one who knows anything about 4 months £31.40 Dr A Breslin, Public Health widened and raised around the identity of J&MR. The 12 months £86.20 Consultant, Forth Valley 1840. stone has been built into the Health Board on It remained undiscov- eastern end of the wall which Application forms are avail- ered until 1991, when it was runs along the crest of the able from local post offices. 01786 463031. found among masonry re- dam. 15 did the accent slip; you could GENERATION TOM almost hear the Mississippi REPORTER’S rolling on by behind them! Congratulations must GAP SAWYER’S also go to Ken Barrett and his VIEW (Born before 1940?) team who have been working Victoria McIntyre TRIUMPH so hard all term to coax along P7 Class Reporter Jim Heron Lynne James the talents on show. The whole production was terrific and all TOM was played by Stephanie ere you born before or those of us who were those who had a hand in it can Beattie wonderfully, without television, penicillin, lucky enough to get tick afford to give themselves a pat fault. All the cast enjoyed the Wpolio jabs, frozen ets to see them, the cast on the back (if their fingers performance and played to food, Xerox, plastic, contact ofF Strathblane Primary’s Tom are not too sore from all that their full potential. Most peo- lenses, videos, frisbees and Sawyer were a revelation. So sewing and piano playing!) ple were scarily like their the Pill? Born before radar, much talent was on display Mark Twain himself characters than they would credit cards, split atoms, la- that it is impossible to like to think. ser beams, and ballpoint pens; single out any one per- But we would before dishwashers, tumble never have pulled it off dryers, electric blankets (re- formance (although, “My name’s Tom Sawyer, spelt, not as in soya young Stephanie bean, but as in ‘I saw yer last Thursday.’” without the help and tal- member the stone piggy!), air Beattie and Jenny ent of Mr Barrett and conditioning, drip dry Kulwicki may well re- Mr Knox. On the night clothes.....and well before alise their ambition of mak- would have approved of this they ran around making sure man walked on the Moon? ing a career on stage if these version of his young hero’s everyone had their props and Got married first and performances are anything to story and I’m sure, being a were in the right position. then lived together (how go by). All the young people journalist himself, he would They both deserve a huge quaint!). Thought that ‘fast sang, danced and acted so well have applauded Victoria round of applause. And food’ was what you ate dur- and it was a delight to see their McIntyre’s reporting skills on what’s a play without music! ing Lent, a ‘Big Mac’ was an smiles and obvious enjoy- Wednesday night when she Mrs Kulwicki on the piano oversize raincoat and ‘crum- ment. From minister and Sun- kindly informed the audience was a huge credit to the pro- pet’ was something that was day School teachers to town of the Scotland score. duction and we couldn’t have eaten for tea. Did you exist gossips; from Huck to Injun Tickets were like gold done it without her. Thank before house husbands, com- Joe, everyone played their part dust for the two evening per- you! puter dating, dual careers, and with great gusto and on formances and it would have The performance in all when a ‘meaningful relation- Wednesday night the audience been no surprise to have seen was excellent, and as one lady ship’ meant getting along with played their part too, by boo- ticket touts at the gates of the said “It would bring a tear to cousins and, ‘sheltered ac- ing the villains and cheering school! Next time the Primary a glass eye!”. commodation’ was where you the heroes in all the right School treads the boards, waited for a bus. places. make sure you have marked Were you born before As one member of the yourself down for a ticket, ODE TO day care centres, group homes audience pointed out, the chil- because you will be assured and disposable nappies? FM dren had perfected a great of a great night’s entertain- THE SPELL radio did not exist, neither did ment! tape decks, electric typewrit- Southern drawl and at no time ers, artificial hearts, word CHECKER! processors, yoghurt and young men did not wear earrings! A time when a ‘chip’ was a piece Eye halve a spelling chequer of wood or a fried potato, It came with my pea sea ‘time sharing’ meant togeth- It plainly marques four my erness, ‘hardware’ meant nuts revue and bolts and ‘software’ Miss steaks eye kin knot sea. wasn’t a word. Before 1940, ‘Made in Eye strike a key and type a Japan’ meant junk, the term word ‘making out’ referred to how And weight four it two say you did in your exams, ‘stud’ Weather eye am wrong oar was something for fastening write your collar to your shirt and It shows me strait a weigh. ‘going all the way’ meant stay- ing on a double decker to the As soon as a mist ache is maid bus depot. Pizzas, McDonald It nose bee fore two long and instant coffee were un- And eye can put the error rite heard of. Cigarette smoking Its rare lea ever wrong. was fashionable, ‘grass’ was mown, ‘coke’ was stored in Eye have run this poem threw the coal shed, a ‘joint’ was a piece of meat you had for Sun- it day lunch and ‘pot’ was some- I am shore your pleased two thing that you cooked in. no ‘Rock music’ was a grand- Its letter perfect awl the weigh mother’s lullaby, ‘Eldorado’ My chequer tolled me sew. was an ice-cream, a ‘gay’ per- son was the life and soul of We welcome comments the party and ‘Aids’ just on anything that appears meant beauty treatment or in the newsletter. helping someone in trouble! Tennis Please write to the Editor, Those born before 1940 Mike Fischbacher, at: must be a hardy bunch when Club you think of the way in which the world has changed and the Village Bowling 4 Southview Road, life adjustments they have had Club Club Strathblane to make. No wonder or e-mail: there is a generation A81 Glasgow Road [email protected] 16 gap today!!!  770716