The StraitonMay - June 2014 50p Arrow

It’s been a year since the last Arrow so this is a bumper issue with an extra Happy Birthday four pages! Slightly more expensive than before but the price, and size, will revert to 40p and 12 pages in future issues. Interspersed throughout this Cullen, 9 on 14 April issues are news and results of village events over the past year. We hope Olivia, 10 on 18 May you enjoy reading them. Tess, 9 on 21 May Since November 2013 we’ve had three new wind farm applications; Linfairn, Sofia and Marcus, 12 on Kiers Hill and Glenmount plus one addendum, Dersalloch. Knockskae are 12 August expected to hold another exhibition this summer and Hadyard Hill later in the year. Congratulations to Connie A new group, VisitStraiton, has been formed and there is more about this Paton and Emma Walker inside the Arrow. You can go to visitstraiton.com to view the website. who both celebrate their A warm welcome to all visitors to the area, we hope you have an enjoyable 21st birthdays in May. trip and come back again soon. Bea Holden Dates for your Diary May 29th Village Co-op AGM 24th Community Council 9th-15th WalkFest, Newton McCandlish Hall, 7pm Meeting, , 7.30pm Stewart Walking Festival June 27th School Prize School closes 22nd European Elections 1st Communion Service, for Summer Holidays 23rd School Holiday St Cuthbert’s Church July 26th School Holiday and Spring 14th Straiton Agricultural Show 6th Car Boot Sale and Cream Bank Holiday and Show Day Teas Teas, Playpark and Hall, 10am - 3pm 27th Community Council Meeting, 20th Church Sponsored Walk, McCandlish Hall, 7.30pm leaving McCandlish Hall 7pm 29th Community Council Meeting, Crosshill, 7.30pm There is quite a tradition of Well done to Keir Murray (Dal- e Minister Writes How to contact Straiton folk living in several dif- morton) who graduated last year Oscar Wilde once said: “memory is the diary ferent houses in the village and from University with an that we carry with us.” How true! As we your local surrounding area. Traditions are MSc (1st class) in Museum Stud- go through life, we gather memories along and national being kept alive and well with ies. Keir already has a 1st class the way, and we are most fortunate today Ronnie moving from Traboyak honours degree from the Uni- to have the equipment to store those pre- representatives to Fowlers Croft and swapping versity of Wales but decided to cious memories we would like to preserve, Along with Kirkmichael and Village News places with Scott and Rhian- study further and follow his pas- whether in a book, or on a computer or Crosshill, Straiton has three Quite a few folk have moved to non and their family. Bruce has sion for history and museums. mobile ‘phone. Oscar Wilde is correct: “memory is the diary that we community councillors and their and from Straiton since the last moved into the village from Congratulations to carry with us.” contact details can be found issue a year ago. Even though Milton Lodge to Dalmellington Jen and Carl Williams Road and Joy has moved from on the birth of their At Eastertide, the Christian Church celebrates the Resurrection on the back page. Meetings are it may be quite some time since usually held on the last Tuesday Main Street to Milton Lodge. second son, Ethan. of Jesus Christ. For many people today, however, Jesus is simply you moved here we extend a of the month alternating between Finally, Steven Dunlop has Congratulations to a memory – someone who lived in first-century Palestine, an very warm welcome; the three villages. Contact moved from Balminnoch to the Whirly and Gregorie outstanding charismatic preacher, teacher and healer, who died To Catriona and Chris who have details for other representatives Main St with his partner, Louise. Marshall who have a cruel and shameful death on a Cross. According to this way of moved from Blairgowrie to Main are as follows: a baby daughter, Millie, a little thinking, Jesus was a unique human being – perhaps the greatest Street along with their dog, Ben Congratulations to sister for Rory and Lara. personality the world has known – yet only a man whose life is well- , North Carrick and and the cat. Leon Dowman and preserved in the Gospels, as well as in art, literature, music and Coylton Councillors To Mike and Kirsty and their chil- Bianca who were married in Stork last seen flying up towards Thailand last November. Leon Craigbrae. drama. Ann Galbraith dren Cullen, Cadhla, and Cada who have moved to Curroch, has been living and working in Well done to Iona Fullarton For the Christian, however, Jesus is much more than a memory. He is Home Tel: 01655 740447 Sydney for several years now. near Straiton. who is now the Manager of Top a living presence, ‘Christ in the Spirit’ at work among us in the world Office Tel: 01292 612687 Man in Ayr. Iona was previously To Ailsa who has moved to Kirk- today, and just as influential as he was back in first-century Palestine. Email: ann.galbraith@south- employed in the Truro branch of michael Road from Lewis. To the Christian mind, the Jesus who was crucified on Good Friday, .gov.uk Top Shop. is now the risen, ascended and glorified Lord, “the first to return It’s all change in Knockbreck Brian Connolly from the dead, to become in all things supreme”. (Colossians 1:18) Road. A warm welcome to; Mobile Tel: 07970 540591 According to this line of thought, Jesus is no longer a memory, but Jeannie and her son, Camran Office Tel: 01292 612274 a real and living presence, who continues his saving work in the who were previously living in Email: brian.connolly@south- present age. Kirkoswald. ayrshire.gov.uk As such, Jesus is not a figure from the past to be revered, but a real Carrie who has moved to Knock- and living presence to be celebrated. William Grant breck Road from Ayr. Mobile Tel: 07794037597 Fiona Nixon who has moved to Snakes Alive! Geoff and Trish How do you see Jesus Christ? Do you see him only as a memory, as Office Tel: 01292 612479 Straiton from Ayr. Congratulations to India Fullar- Selleck watched in amazement a figure from the distant past, who is worthy of attention and respect? as a rook flew over their garden Email: william.grant@south- Claudia, Graham and their ton and Alastair McKay (pictured Or do you see him as a living presence in today’s world, showing us with what they thought was a ayrshire.gov.uk daughter, Daisy. above) who were married at the mind and the way of God? Blairquhan this May. The happy branch. The bird dropped the Sandra Goldie And finally to Nigel, Sarah and May Eastertide be a time for us to reflect on this important question! couple are enjoying a three week object and it was then they real- Home Tel: 01292 570054 their son, Liam. honeymoon in Mexico. ised it was an adder. With every blessing and best wish. Office Tel: 01292 612293 A fond farewell to those who W. Gerald Jones Email: sandra.goldie@south- have moved away including: ayrshire.gov.uk Bernadette, who was one of the We would be delighted to have your news, announcements and MSP and MP first residents in the new houses The Buck events. Please email or write: in Knockbreck Road. Adam Ingram MSP Brenda and Graeme , who Coffee • Cakes • Crafts [email protected] 18 Main Street. 770247 Office 1, 4 The Square, have moved from Knockbreck Open Wednesday - Sunday and bank holiday Mondays Julie Walker 5 Main Street. 770276 Cumnock KA18 1BG Road to Ayr. throughout the summer from 11am to 5pm Tel: 01290 425874 Andy and Margaret who have Interior and exterior work Email: adam.ingram.msp@ Enjoy good coffee, speciality teas, tasty soups, Geoff Campbell also moved from Knockbreck carried out to the highest scottish.parliament.uk Road. sandwiches and toasties plus Dorothy’s fabulously standard Painter&Decorator Sandra Osborne MP Tom McIntosh who has moved to scrumptious cakes. Knockdon, near Straiton 139 Main St, Ayr KA8 8BX the middle east. Fax: 01292 885661 A wide range of quality-made crafts, cards, 01655 770262 Helen, Rody and little Jacob who paintings, children’s toys and gift items to browse. (evenings only) Email: sandra.osborne.mp@ have moved from the Main Street parliament.uk to Ayr. Peter’s Pick Straiton WRI Fundraising event VisitStraiton The next session of the WRI It is the centenary of the birth of Dylan Thomas later this year so I Set up last year VisitStraiton is open to anyone within the parish of starts next September and we for The Straiton Fun Day thought it apt to select one of his poems for the Arrow. Straiton and surrounding area who runs a business which depends would be delighted to welcome upon tourism, or who is simply interested in the recreational and Men who seek power, politicians and dictators don’t like free thinkers new members to either join, or Car Boot Sale & tourism offerings of the area to both tourists and residents. such as artists, writers and poets because they have a gift of observing just come as a visitor, if you see the truth. any demonstration which is of Cream Teas The group’s aims and objectives are: Underhand deals are done, the ordinary man suffers, wars, hunger, interest to you. • To increase the number of visitors, both day and overnight, poverty – this short poem by Dylan Thomas sums it up. to Straiton and surrounding area • Increase awareness of the natural beauty of the village and area e Hand that Signed the Paper • Provide visitors and residents with a positive experience by e hand that signed the paper felled a city; providing good facilities, interesting walks and information on Five sovereign ngers taxed the breath; other activities and the natural and social heritage Doubled the globe of dead and halved a country; • Encourage rural businesses which rely on visitors as well as local e ve kings did a king to death. trade to flourish, thereby improving employment and training opportunities and securing the long term viability of businesses Sunday 6th July 10am - 3pm e mighty hand leads to the sloping shoulder, • To bring all sections of the community together and engage e nger joints are cramped with chalk; Straiton Playpark with residents A goose’s quill has put an end to murder and McCandlish Hall To achieve these aims we will: at put an end to talk. At the first meeting of the last Book early to avoid • Promote the VisitStraiton website and ensure it is up-to-date session Dale Stevenson gave a disappointment and relevant e hand that signed the treaty bred a fever, spinning demonstration. Com- And famine grew, and locusts came; • Work with other agencies and businesses (Ayrshire & Arran petition winners were; Four Tourism, Forestry Commission etc) Great is the hand that dominion over pancakes - Nessie Connolly, • Liaise with nearby communities and visitor attractions where Man by a scribbled name. F a v o u r i t e v a s e - F r a n c e s M u r r a y . reciprocal promotional opportunities can be agreed Davie from Cranberry Cottage • Enhance the community’s experience of the environment, Flower Boutique showed off his its facilities and opportunities floral art skills at the following • Consult with local residents and businesses to ensure that the meeting. Competition winners promotion of the area and its assets is advantageous to them were - Hedgerow arrangement - Christine Welsh, Hand made To date the group has been working with the Ayrshire & Arran Tourism birthday card - Christine Welsh. team to develop the walking routes and several walks have been The ‘Rural’s’ 85th birthday party identified as offering an exceptional experience. Currently these was celebrated in the Black Bull, include Lady Hunter Blair’s Walk, Church Walk, Auchenroy Hill and with a lovely meal. In December Contact Jen 01655 770254 Dalcairney Falls, The Monument and Bennan Circuit, Ness Glen, ‘Colour me beautiful’ displayed or email Castle & Craiglea Trail and Cornish Hill. facial and make-up techniques [email protected] and in 2014, demonstrations or follow us on Facebook and talks on ornithology, cheese making and a member’s night completed the syllabus. Overall points winners were: First: Belle Shaw Second: Frances Murray Church Third: Christine Welsh A sample page from the website Sponsored Walk On the Net VisitStraiton.com The annual Church Sponsored Kirkmichael have a new village This website (created by Jonathan Meuli) gives information on where Walk is coming off on Friday, 20th website, it’s full of useful infor- to stay, eat and shop. June, with participants leaving the mation, local news, events and The news section gives information on upcoming and past events. Hall at 7pm and returning there for history. Check it out at You can also leave comments or advise the editors of any events food and light refreshments. www.kirkmichaelvillage.co.uk you think should be included. Need the police? Dial 101 any time it isn’t 999 e Straiton School 101 makes it quicker and easier to contact the police when you don’t need an emergency response Community Garden For example: • if you’ve had a minor traffic accident The Straiton School Community Garden lies to the north of the • if your property has been vandalised school on a piece of land which has been lying untended for at • if your car has been stolen least 50 years. The land belongs to Blairquhan estate who gifted “Logs to burn; logs to burn; the land the school stands on. Present owner, Sir Patrick Hunter • if you suspect drug dealing Logs to save the coal a turn.” Blair, has given permission for the school to develop this small • if you’ve witnessed a crime piece of adjoining land as a Community Garden with freedom to Here’s a word to make you wise • if you’ve seen a missing person plan and develop within the school by the pupils. when you hear the woodman’s cries; • if you need crime prevention advice Never heed his usual tale Work started last year with an archaeological dig on the other side of • if you want to speak to a local police officer That he’s splendid logs for sale the wall and the children were very fired up every Friday afternoon St Cuthbert’s News with their trowels and sieves. 101 replaces all local police station numbers with one easy-to- But read these lines and really learn Stained Glass Windows: This remember number, use it to contact police anywhere in the country. The proper kind of logs to burn. Funding (£500) for the first phase has been partially spent on tools and work is now planned to com- some fruit trees ready for the open afternoon at the end of November. 101 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. mence in early June and all Oak logs will warm you well, Work is being directed by Henry Anderson in full consultation with arrangements are well in hand; It costs a flat rate of 15p per call from landline and mobile networks, If they’re old and dry. Misss McBean, the senior teacher, and the headteacher with the many thanks to all in the com- no matter what time of day or how long you are on the phone. Larch logs of pinewoods smell whole school (16 pupils) taking part in the dig. Finds have been But the sparks will y. munity who contributed. When you dial 101, the system will work out your location and con- interesting with a 1960’s pepsi bottle, a 1950’s chrome whistle and General Assembly of the nect you to the service centre covering your area. Beech logs for Christmas time; some Victorian marbles the highlights. Yew logs heat well; Church of Scotland: The Gen- The work will continue with a fruit garden and a leisure garden with Using 101 should make the police more accessible while reducing ‘Scotch’ logs it is a crime eral Assembly of the Church will benches in the areas with most sunshine. pressure on the 999 system. For anyone to sell. take place from 17th to 23rd May The Community Council has donated £200 towards the project. 2014 and Jim Kirk, Session Clerk Deaf, deafened, hard of hearing or speech-impaired callers can Birch logs will burn too fast; has been selected as a Commis- access the service via TextRelay on 1 800 1 101. Chestnut scarce at all; Last year saw Straiton Primary Hawthorn logs are good to last sioner by Ayr Presbytery. In an emergency always dial 999 – when someone is in danger, a School gain their Green Flag. For crime is in progress or a suspect is nearby. If cut in the fall. two years the children in Straiton Holly logs will burn like wax, Primary school have been work- Recently there have been thefts of quad bikes and heating oil in the You should burn them green; ing on the Eco schools project to area. Please be vigilant and if you see any suspicious activity such Elm logs like smouldering ax, earn their green flag. They have as vehicles at unusual times (during the night for instance) call 101 No ame to be seen. learned a lot about recycling, to report it. If you notice the licence number be sure to note it down. Pear logs and apple logs, gardening, saving water, electric- They will scent your room; ity and lots more. Their garden Email address for the local policing team is: Cherry logs across the dogs has improved a lot and there is maybolenorthcarrickandcoyltoncommunitypolicingteam@scotland. Smell like owers in bloom, a lot less litter around the school. pnn.police.uk But ash logs all smooth and grey They have really enjoyed the eco Burn them green or old, schools project and are really Buy up all that come your way passionate about it. Receiving They’re worth their weight in gold. the Green Flag would not have Honor Goodhart, 1926 been possible if it wasn’t for the help and support from their teacher Miss McBean, Mrs Greig in repairing their flag pole. The Is this Yours? and parents. Special thanks to Not content with walking miles flag was raised by the Primary Sam McWhirter who gave up her delivering our post every day, A padded counterpane has 7 boys while a Tom Fulton and free time to help them with their Alec (from Maybole) regularly been waiting patiently for it’s Robbie Kidd played the pipes owner to collect it after being projects in school. walks long distance routes rais- and drum. dry cleaned last year. So if ing money for charity. The above Raising the Green Flag was only A huge thank you to Robbie Kidd you’ve been unusually cold picture was taken by Loch made possible due to the hard for mending our flag pole and to at night this winter it could be Lomond when Alec was walking work from Robbie Kidd and his Sam McWhirter for helping and yours. Collect from Straiton the West Highland Way, a trail he team of helpers. Robbie very supporting the Eco Committee in Stores. has completed more than once. Primary One children enjoying their lunch kindly donated his time and skills their work. Straiton Stores offer the following Straiton Stores • Newspapers and magazines Talking Shop • Household goods Summer Opening Hours Consequently, the shop has a much improved range of greetings cards • Fresh fruit and vegetables Monday - Friday and several new suppliers. Fife Creamery provide a great new range 7am - 6pm • Pet food of dairy and deli foods including yogurts, chorizo sausages, speciality • Baking ingredients cheeses, pâtes, smoked salmon, bhajis, pakora, fresh pesto, salads Saturday & Sunday • Confectionery and olives – all perfect for delicious summer meals. Irving’s of Castle 8am - 4pm Douglas provide a wide range of cakes and biscuits. James Paterson • Hot drinks of Dalmellington is supplying good quality meat products: bacon, • Mobile top-ups sausages, pies, cold meats, frozen beef or pork burgers. We also have a In addition to the shop, the Co- • Bread and rolls small number of local maps and an eclectic range of books. Where else operative also runs the toilets in could you find The Wild Weather Book next to Mr Men? • Cashback (with purchase) the village. Henry Anderson is As always there are the popular staples. Frozen chicken breasts and the man in charge of this venture • Preserves goujons from Auchincruive are great value at only £5.99 and £6.85 and, with funds much needed • Milk and dairy products per kilo respectively. Fresh fruit and vegetables from the market are for redecoration and repair, he • Tinned goods delivered twice a week. Free range eggs come from Corrie Mains and booked a slot for the Co-oper- • Greetings cards Glenlochrie at only £1.50 for half a dozen. We also still have locally ative in the Maybole Charity produced preserves from Mary’s Marvellous Munchables and Ayrshire Shop. This is usually a good fund • Dry cleaning agent honey from Graeme Sharp. raiser and the week at the end of • Batteries Membership of the Co-operative is still only £10 – no increase in 5 years March was no exception with • Books and maps – and helps us provide an essential fund for maintenance and bills. It over £1,400 raised. The monies • Soft drinks also ensures members have a say in the running of the Co-operative at will be split between the toilets our Annual General Meeting (scheduled for 29th May). It’s not to late to and shop • Sandwiches and pies Straiton Village Co-operative has been successfully trading for join up! Huge thanks are due firstly to • Eggs over 5 years now with the latest figures showing an improvement If you can offer more practical help and can spare a couple of hours a Henry but then also to all those • Biscuits and cakes in sales. In addition to our valued members, there are currently 13 week why not help as a volunteer? In the shop or behind the scenes, who donated goods and gave • Secondhand books volunteers, three part-time paid staff and a part-time paid manager, you’ll be made very welcome. Most of all though, please show your of their time to run the shop. It Alan Martin. support by using the shop and pop in to see the great range Straiton • Delicatessen foods was a busy but enjoyable week Over the years the shop premises has been improved (new flooring, Stores has to offer. thanks to our kind-hearted work- • Wild bird food chilled food cabinets, air conditioning and signage) and, for a store of ers – with lots of laughs to keep • Regular ordering service this size, the range of services and products provided is astounding. “Just like the Oscars” Ayrshire Roads Alliance us going. We did a roaring trade • Fishing permits (Forestry Straiton Stores now offers card payment, cash back (with purchases) in a bizarre mix of goods: child- Congratulations to Scott South and East Ayrshire Coun- Commission and Straiton Club) and mobile phone tops-ups. On Monday and Thursday the Post Office is rens’ jeeps; prints of game birds; Watson (Geordie and Gero- cils have collaborated to provide a run from the shop between 3pm and 4pm. Dry Cleaning is also collected gie’s son) who won Salad sturdy boots; vintage china; • Ice cream shared roads service, The Ayrshire and delivered on these days courtesy of Quick Return Dry Cleaners of Grower of the Year. Scott is good quality second hand • Post Office (Mon, Thur 3-4pm) Roads Alliance is responsible for: Stranraer. You can even buy a fishing permit here! the manager at Feltwell Grow- clothes; designer stockings; • Notice board (for sale, local • maintenance of public roads, Earlier this year, a Shop Advisory Group (Frances Murray, Alison Stokes ers, part of G’s and their fresh kitchenalia, etc. Other donations services, local events) bridges, footways and footpaths & Trish Selleck) was set up to help Alan look at sourcing and ordering. produce is sold in Straiton during the week from Maybole • Herbs Stores. Scott, Joanne and • street lighting folk who wished to support us • Stationery their family live down in Nor- • traffic calming and road safety included commemorative Com- folk now. roads design and structural design monwealth Games scarves from • Rice and pasta The award ceremony was • parking enforcement and mobility the 1958 Cardiff games. Very • Cigarettes and tobacco held in a prestigious hotel • bus infrastructure and interchange topical! • Toiletries where Scott and nine other facilities After all that hard work, a good • Curry and pasta sauces employees were wined and • winter maintenance profit was made and there are dined in style. still enough items left for an • Frozen food For all your woodfuel requirements Fishing Permits are available from Straiton interesting stall at the Straiton • Stamps HARDWOOD LOGS • SOFTWOOD LOGS Stores Car Boot Sale in July. And, by • Logs and firelighters WOODCHIP PELLETS March - June July - Oct then, the toilets will be looking And a friendly welcome! Contact Arthur on 07795 384255 or Pat on 07796 591366 so much better with their fresh Day Tickets £10 £15 or email [email protected] coat of paint. Thank you Henry Weekly Permits £30 £50 and Co! The Late Mrs Margaret Douglas (Ewen) 1922-2014 A Rose among the Sunowers Margaret Douglas was a homely and We were there to work as well as a home-loving lady: a devoted wife; to learn. In Kimo we worked to a much-loved mother and mother- improve the centre. We dug out in-law; a dear grandmother and 6ft deep holes for rubbish. We great-grandmother; a kindly, consider- sanded and varnished buildings. ate, compassionate neighbour; a loyal We also dug out a trench and laid and faithful friend. electrical cables down a hill to the Born at Kilwinning, North Ayrshire, in river. 1922 - the second of the three daugh- Not surprisingly, my favourite Junior Badminton ters of Henry Ewen (from the north of part of the trip was spending 8-16 years 6.30 - 8pm Scotland) and Margaret Eccles (Kirkmi- quality time with the boys. We Adult Badminton chael), Margaret came to Kirkmichael as a young girl with her family. played football and party games At the start of the Second World War in 1939, however, she moved over 16s 8 - 10pm with them and got lots of cuddles. to Straiton to work with Mr Grimwood as his housekeeper. In 1941 They performed dances for us Mondays in the Margaret joined the Women’s Royal Air Force (WAAFs) as a cook; and we organised fun sessions McCandlish Hall she was based in and witnessed the London blitz. Margaret for them. We all enjoyed soaking made, among other foods, large cauldrons of porridge, topped up each other with water balloons! Contact Jen Williams with gallons of syrup to cater for great numbers of servicemen and We also had dinner with the boys on 770254 women. each night. Our favourite thing to Before the War started Margaret met Blair Douglas, a forester from do then was to try and teach each Straiton: the couple married in 1948 after which they brought up their e dierence between stupidity other our own languages. Over daughter Margaret, and their son Ian. For a year or so after their mar- the trip we managed to teach and genius is that genius has its riage Blair and Margaret lived at Glenhead, just above the village; Last year I had an amazing summer. I was lucky enough to visit limits. Peru with the Vine Trust, a charity based in Leith which works the boys some English, including then for some fourteen years at Craigbrae; and finally at their cottage with abandoned and vulnerable children both in Peru and in some good Scots... including Albert Einstein in Dalmellington Road: where they moved about 1961/62. the word “bowfin’” which they Tanzania. Six of us girls from Carrick Academy travelled out with Margaret was, as we remember her, a marvellous cook and baker. Her enjoyed to shout as loud as they a group of other young people from Lothian. cooking and baking skills were always to the highest standard and possibly could! In Peru I visited three different boys centres. The first of these, Kimo enjoyed by family and friend alike. Throughout her life, Margaret (with was close to a town named La Mersed. We spent a week there My other trip highlights included Fabulous Blair) attended whists and beetle drives and here in Straiton she took working and spending time with the boys. We then flew to Cuzco in visiting the amazing world a keen interest in all village events. She also enjoyed horse-racing. the mountains where we visited the Urabamba Centre. Finally, we heritage site of Machu Piccu, set in breathtaking mountains; Fraser Professionally, Margaret cleaned for the White family at Traboyack for ventured into the jungle of Iquitos and stayed at the Puerto Alegria Hire Fabulous Fraser to entertain many years; and also at the former manse, when the late Rev John F Centre for three days. travelling to a shanty town where we saw the devastating your guests with magic McCallum was parish minister. These centres we visited were not at all institutional. They were all conditions some of the boys But Margaret will always be remembered as a keen bowler. For years proper homes. Each had a house mother and father who treated used to live in; going down the she was a loyal and active member of Kirkmichael Bowling Club and each boy as if they were their own, and the boys even referred to Amazon to visit a tribal village, took part in many local and regional competitions. Bowling gave her the carers as their ‘mamas’ and ‘papas’. The boys ages varied from and learning to haggle at the immense pleasure – and her skills on the bowling green were well- centre to centre. We met street boys as young as three. The oldest markets. And, yes, I did eat recognised and well-rewarded. were seventeen – the homes were for boys of all ages in need up to guinea pig but much preferred More than anything else, however, Margaret was very family-orien- adulthood. In the centres, the boys were known as the “girasoles” alpaca! which translates as sunflowers. This is because all who care for them Repertoire includes: Card tricks, tated. Not only was she a devoted wife and mother. Margaret was want to see them grow big, bright and tall and follow the sun, or the Many thanks to all who supported especially fond of her six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren: the trip. It so exceeded all my Children’s tricks, Comedy tricks, Son as in Son of God. Stage tricks, Balloon modelling, she followed closely the activities and careers of those young lives, expectations and I will definitely taking a personal interest in what they were doing, or where they were On one of our first nights in Kimo, Billy Clarke (who works with Union return. For more information on Large Prop tricks, Fire tricks and Biblica de Peru) came to talk to us about the boys and how they end “Wow, how did he do that?” going. Margaret also had a close bond with her late sisters Flora and the Vine Trust and taking a trip Cissy. She and Blair would often travel north to spend holidays with up on the streets. What we heard was devastating. The mothers of the like mine see www.vinetrust.org Fraser is a member of the children would take their young boys down to a busy market and just Cissy at Grantown-on-Spey and in the north-east. Family life meant Rose Baird Magic Circle much to Margaret and her home was always a hub of family engage- let go of their hands, losing them in the markets and abandoning them www.fabulousfraser.co.uk Congratulations to Rose who will ment. We offer our deepest sympathy to Blair, their children Margaret to fend for themselves. One of the wee boys we met Erick, now aged or on 01655 770370 or email be starting her Physiotherapy and Ian, their grandchildren and their many friends, together with our 9, had been living under a bridge for three years before being found [email protected] and taken to the centre. course at Aberdeen this Autumn. kind thoughts and prayers. The Late Mr James (Jimmy) Hannah 1924-2014 e Straiton Struggle Born in Crosshill in 1924, the eldest of the Hannah brothers, Jimmy Entries were up from last year for the Straiton Struggle Cycle Race started work at Kirkmichael Creamery at the age of fourteen. Follow- organised by Ayr Roads. The race consists of five circuits from Strai- ing the outbreak of the 2nd World War, Jimmy, already in the ATC (Air ton to Kirkmichael over to Crosshill and back to Straiton again – about Training Corps), was called up in 1943 to train as a telegraphist learn- 50 miles in total. Once again entrants came from all over Scotland; ing Morse Code in Blackpool and the Isle of Man. Due to a shortage Shetland, Aberdeen, Ayr, Glasgow, Kinross, Straiton and Edinburgh. of telegraphists in the Navy, however, Jimmy was transferred there This year was a combination of a 3rd and 4th category races which from the Royal Air Force; serving mainly in the Mediterranean and means they were restricted to riders of the similar ability irrespective around the African coast, Algiers, Greece and Malta. Jimmy’s War of age or gender. service ended in Malta where he worked on a large air base helping to protect the island, after which he was dropped off in the south of First was Kenny Armstrong from Ayr Roads cycling club, team mate France, travelling by train to Calais, and finally by ferry to Dover. Greg Templeton was second and third was Robert Robertson from Glasgow. First lady was Gabriella Nordin, originally from Sweden but After the War, Jimmy resumed work at Kirkmichael Creamery where now living in Glasgow. She came in a few seconds after the main he remained until the Creamery closed in 1983. In 1951 he married group of cyclists (peloton) showing that you don’t have to be tall and Mary Fergusson from Straiton (who also worked at the Creamery), and, having lived in a caravan for a short time, the Hannahs moved to muscular to do well at cycling. Following the huge success of the Straiton Village Recipe book Knockbreck Road in 1953 where they brought up their two children: Kenny and Greg broke away from the peloton on the penultimate lap the Fun Day Committee are Margaret and Jim. Jimmy was is best described as a quiet-living with Kenny completing the final lap out on his own. The warm sunny compiling another book. This country gentleman – gentle, gracious, sincere. He was a man of weather suited him although just near the finish he felt his muscles time your favourite baking or simple tastes and pleasures and a run out in the car with Mary gave starting to seize up. He kept his legs spinning but tried not to use sweet recipes are wanted. him much pleasure; favourite venues being Stranraer and Portpat- muscle mass and managed to keep his lead. rick and the gardens at . After Mary’s death in 2001 You must either live in Straiton he went out walking most recently up to the glen behind Straiton, Straiton’s Michael Robb came in a very respectable 19th. or have a connection to the area. almost on a daily basis. He was very keen on woodwork and skilled at Please detail the origin of your Unfortunately the was a pile up between Straiton and Kirkmichael making things from furniture to small ornaments and utensils. Indeed, recipe and give it a great name. resulting in cyclist, Mark Skilling, going to A&E with a suspected he had always wanted to be a joiner and his delight in making things Remember to include you name, broken shoulder. We hope all casualties are well and make a full and was a sure sign of his clever-handedness. He also liked watching address and age if under 16. speedy recovery. football on the television and spent time gardening - though more out To submit your recipe simply of necessity than for leisure. type it out or handwrite it neatly But Jimmy’s first love was his family, especially his four grandchildren and leave it in Straiton Stores. Top: Winner, Kenny Armstrong in whom he took particular pleasure and whose photographs at vari- Alternatively you can email it to ous ages were proudly displayed in his home. It was Jimmy’s great Above: First Lady, Gabriella [email protected] desire to reach his 90th birthday: a wish fulfilled a few weeks ago in Nordin the Royal Infirmary in Glasgow and where a few days later he slipped Far Left: Not the most comfort- quietly out of time into eternity. We offer our deepest sympathy to his able looking seat although I family, together with our kind thoughts and prayers. was assured it’s quite comfy. Left: It is common for tyres to be glued on to wheel rims. The Black Bull Hotel The annual The Rural’s, children’s Hallowe’en party was held in the McCandlish Fishing Club Dinner served Hall and as usual the fancy dress costumes were terrific. The difficult rainbow whist Members of Straiton Angling drive was from 6 to 9pm task of deciding the prize winners fell to Jean Britain, who is new to Club can fish the Approach held last Open weekends the village, and they were as follows: Loch this year. Please have your November, with for lunch and dinner Pre-school - Luke as The Milky Bar Kid, and Mirrin as Rapunzel. 13 tables present. permits on you at all times and park in the appropriate place. Beer Garden Primary 1-4 - Lucy as The Bride of Dracula, Sarah as Nanny First prize winners, one Lovely room available for each colour, were Agnes Welcome to the club’s newest McPhee and Joseph as a Pirate. for private functions James, Agnes Marshall, Robert member Stuart Bryden (aka Primary 5-7 - Niamh as Avatar, and Cameron as The Empire State Baird and Jenny Bacon. Badger). If you would like to join A warm welcome awaits building, complete with King Kong. Prizes were presented by please contact David Stokes, you from Kenny and Jane Thank you to Sam and Leslie McWhirter, for organising the games Nessie Watson. 770370 who will explain mem- 01655 770240 and Margaret and Arthur Logan for decorating the hall so appropri- £400 was raised for local bership rules and fees. ately. charities. Tight lines Straiton St The Late Mrs Fiona Bowman 1946 - 2013 Though born in Ayr, and baptised in Straiton Church, Fiona spent Cuthbert’s Guild most of her life in Edinburgh, and also in Bonnyrigg, Midlothian, her father Harry Woolford being chief art restorer at the National Gallery As the speaker for the first meet- of Scotland. During childhood and teenage years, Fiona gained ing was called away at the last happy memories of weekends spent at Blairquhan Castle, through moment, Jim Kirk, stood in and which she always felt a strong affinity with this area. presented a lovely slide show on the German city of Lubeck. At In her professional life, Fiona worked with the Bank of Scotland in the November meeting, Char- Edinburgh, and in 1984, moving to the new Mortgages Department, lotte Rosteck, the curator at she met Lizabeth Mackie (Liz), with whom she enjoyed a thirty-year Dumfries House held members friendship, being more like sisters than friends. Fiona left the Bank of enthralled as she told them all Scotland in 1991, and thereafter moved to the picturesque Anstruther about the project. The AGM was in Fife. In 2004, however, she moved permanently to this part of Left: Liz Limond hurls the – initially to Kirkmichael Road, Maybole; then to Dyke handbag. Below: Scott held in the Malin Court hotel Dunlop wins Hurl the in December where members Cottage, Straiton; and finally to Myrtle Cottage in Kirkmichael’s Patna Sheaf - yet again! enjoyed a pre-Christmas dinner Road. before the money raised at the Fiona was a lady who loved country and village life, and felt she show day teas was divided for truly belonged in such an environment. In later years, she travelled charity. widely overseas, while also giving time to be a volunteer worker at Recipients were: Straiton Kirkmichael Community Shop. She was a regular attender at Straiton Church, McCandlish Hall, Strai- Church, often accompanied by her friend Jack Patrick, and had a ton co-op toilet fund and St strong faith, holding fast to all her opinions. Her dogs also gave Fiona Andrew’s church project in much pleasure, and she enjoyed entertaining and socialising with Malawi. friends. The guild is a branch of the Unfortunately, Fiona’s health deteriorated following her move to Church of Scotland and anyone Kirkmichael, and Jack’s death in 2012, and she was frequently in male or female who wishes to hospital during this time. Fiona passed away peacefully in October join us will be made most wel- 2013, in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, surrounded by her family and with come. Liz – to whom we offer our deepest sympathy, together with our kind thoughts and prayers. To celebrate Guild week, a con- Above: Nick and Lewis Wise cert was held in the church on Sunday 24th November. The Well done to George Bryden entertainment was provided by (Kirkmichael) who set out from Hugh Patterson and friends, a Lands End on 7th January and group of superb singers and walked to John o’ Groats, reach- entertainers from Maybole. A ing it on the 28th of February. great turnout of people attended George nearly gave up after the to raise money for Cross Reach, first week with badly blistered a church of Scotland charity for feet but the knowledge of all Above: Rebbekah looking gorgeous dementia sufferers and £295 Below: Lesley and Julie watching Hurl the donations and some strong was raised. the Handbag painkillers kept him going. I did not trip and fall. Over £4,000 has been raised for I attacked the oor and I believe the Ayrshire Hospice – a superb Just a few of last year’s Fun Day pictures by Jim Kirk, I am winning. achievement. who, apart from roping himself to a passing helicopter and circling the Monument then running up Bennan and back Curtains, Cushions & Crafts down for the finish, took the photographs of the hill race Curtain, Blind and Pelmet Making Service from a suitable location in the field with his Nikon D5100 Free measure and estimate camera and attached Nikkor 55-300mm Zoom lens. They are excellent photographs which sadly, our reproduction Samantha Jane McWhirter 14 Dalmellington Road, Straiton KA19 7NG process doesn’t do justice to. 01655 770315 or 07884 076 313 [email protected] Church Post Box Collection Times The Buck Coffee • Cakes • Crafts Church of Scotland service Mon - Fri 4pm Open Wed - Sun 11am-5pm every Sunday at 12 noon Sat 11am Closed Mon, Tue except bank Straiton Stores Bank holidays. Mon - Fri 7am - 6pm The Royal Bank of Scotland Coal Sat, Sun 8am - 4pm Mondays 1.30 - 2pm Fergusson 01292 591 543 MacPherson 01290 551 660 Dry cleaning is collected/ Fishmonger delivered on Mon and Thurs Thurs 12.30 - 1.30pm Logs Blairquhan Estate 770239 Post Office Butcher Bobby McFadyen Mon & Thurs 3.15 - 4.15pm Tue 10am 1 Dalmellington Road Mobile Library Sat 10.30 - 11.15am 07986 445 317 Every 4th Thursday 11.30am

Accommodation Balbeg Country Holidays 01655 770665 Genoch Cottage Self Catering 0141 258 4474 Self Catering www.balbeg.co.uk www.genochcottage.com [email protected] Blairquhan Estate 01655 770239 Self Catering www.blairquhan.co.uk Holly Tree Cottage Self Catering 01655 770247 www.straiton.org.uk Craigview Cottage Self Catering Self Catering www.kathleengood.co.uk Hazel Lodge B&B 01655 770660 Toll Cottage Self Catering 0141 341 0558

Community Councillors Henry Anderson, Craigard 770242 [email protected] Mary Arthur, 24 Main Street 770318 [email protected] Bea Holden, 18 Main Street 770247 [email protected]

Kirkmichael Community Shop and Café Mon - Fri 7.45am - 5.30pm Weekends 7.45am - 4pm The shop and related café are part of South Ayrshire Council’s Comfort Scheme and public toilet facilities are available during opening hours.

Service 361 is provided by Stagecoach (Strathclyde Partnership for Transport) Traveline Scotland 0871 200 22 33 open 24 hours 7 days a week Bus Timetable Mon to Sat. On leaving Ayr the bus stops outside Skills Development on Carrick St and Burns Statue Square Straiton 7.00 9.17 11.17 13.17 15.17 17.47 19.17 21.47 Crosshill 7.15 9.25 11.25 13.25 15.25 17.55 19.25 21.55 Kirkmichael 7.26 9.32 11.32 13.32 15.32 10.02 19.32 22.02 Maybole 7.33 9.40 11.40 13.40 15.40 18.10 19.40 22.10 Ayr Hosp 7.48 10.05 12.05 14.05 16.05 18.35 20.05 22.35 Ayr 8.03 10.20 12.20 14.20 16.20 18.50 20.20 22.50

Ayr 6.02 8.12 10.12 12.12 14.12 16.42 18.12 20.42 Ayr Hosp 6.18 8.29 10.26 12.26 14.26 16.56 18.26 20.56 Maybole 6.36 8.51 10.51 12.51 14.51 17.21 18.51 21.21 Kirkmichael 6.43 8.59 10.59 12.59 14.59 17.29 18.59 21.29 Crosshill 6.50 9.07 11.07 13.07 15.07 17.37 19.07 21.45 Straiton 6.57 9.15 11.15 13.15 15.15 17.45 19.15 21.45