ARDROSSAN & SALTCOATS HERALD
BEITH LOCAL NOTES
DONALD L REID
(Tel. 01505-503801 e-mail: donaldleesreid@hotmail.com)
SUNDAY 14 SEPTEMBER 2003
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LEGAL EAGLE: Julie Thomson of the Courtyard, Beith, recently graduated LLb at Glasgow University.
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BOWLED OVER: A group of Beith Primary School children together with headteacher, Tom Mabon (2rd from right back row) gather with Harry McMaster, senior club coach (extreme left) at Beith, to mark his 92nd birthday with a surprise gift. The other Beith coaches are also pictured.
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HAPPY HARRY: Beith’s oldest bowler, Harry McMaster, JP, aged 92, receives a presentation on behalf of Beith Primary School young bowlers from Craig Monk, age 6, at Beith Bowling Club last week. Beith headteacher, Tom Mabon, is third from right.
BEITHITE PASSES ON
It is with deep regret that we report that Beith’s oldest man, the inimitable Simpson C Jamieson, known to everyone in Beith and district simply as Simie, died on Saturday 13 September in Crosshouse Hospital, Kilmarnock after a short illness. At the time of his death, he was five days away from what would have been his 98th birthday and he was very proud of his status as the town’s oldest man. A fascinating character and an old Spierian, Simie truly lived life to the full and was actively involved in a numerous sporting and social organisations until just a few years ago when he became increasingly frail. The community will join in sending their condolensces to the Jamieson family. A full tribute will appear in this column next week.
GATESIDER PASSES ON
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of well known Gatesider, Robert ‘Bertie’ Hobkirk, 73, of Reek Street, Gateside, who died on Friday 12 September after a long illness. Bertie was very well known in the village and district and was one of those larger-than-life characters who are a diminishing species. The community will join in sending their condolensces to the Mrs Isabel Hobkirk and her family. A full tribute will appear next week in this column. This is the second major blow to the village community as well known Gatesider, Billy Duncan died just three weeks ago.
BOWLED OVER (PHOTOS)
Ex Steelworker, Harry McMaster JP is well known in Beith and district, especially in bowling circles. Harry is one of Beith’s oldest and is probably one of the fittest older men in the town for his age. He plays bowls several times a week and is still one of the finest exponents of bowls at the Beith club which was formed in 1865. Harry celebrated his 92nd birthday last week and even on his birthday he was to be found at on the Beith green giving coaching lessons to youngsters from Beith Primary School. Harry has been club champion on two occasions, 1967 and 1991, and was given the great honour of being elected Honorary President of the club in 1992. Harry has played bowls from his youngest days and thoroughly enjoys the sport. During the past season, along with other club coaches, he has worked every week with a group of young bowlers from Beith Primary School who have been involved in a very successful coaching course. To mark Harry’s 92nd birthday, his young charges gathered with other club members to present Harry with a surprise gift voucher and birthday cards. Everyone who knows this quiet gentleman will join in wishing him many more happy birthdays and continuing success on the green as he passes on his extensive knowledge to the bowlers of tomorrow. Happy birthday, Harry.
LEGAL DEGREE (PHOTO)
Julie Thomson (22) daughter of Hugh and Pat Thomson, the Courtyard, Beith, recently graduated LLb (Hons) at Glasgow University. Legal eagle, Julie is now working towards her legal diploma and hopes eventually to specialize in company law. Well done, Julie.
2nd BEITH GUIDES
Well where has the time gone. The sizzling summer holidays are over, and the new term has begun at 2nd Beith Guides. The opening night was taken up with games led by Young Leader Rachel, and Laura who is completing a variety of interesting activities leading to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at silver level. The following week the girls sat their Confectioners Badge, which seemed to be an excuse for covering themselves in icing sugar. They made lots of lovely cakes and sweets. Needless to say most of the sweets didn't leave the hall. The 5th September was a very special evening, as the Sponsorship Agreement between the guides and the church was signed. Ellen Hart, District Commissioner began by giving a talk on Guiding, and after signing the agreement the Rev. Andrew Black led the group in worship. After this everyone had tea, and looked at the exhibition presented by the guides. A special badge has been commissioned for the company, as they will be known as the 2nd Beith Trinity Guides from now on. The weekend of the 12-14th September the guides had a fabulous time at the Guide facility at Blair, Dalry. They took part in general guide work, campcraft and enjoyed an extended sleepover where sleep seemed to be very low on the agenda. Anyone wishing to join 2nd Beith guides should contact Audrey Davison at 502203 as there are now a few places still available.
WORLD’S BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING
What is apparently the world’s biggest coffee morning will be held on Friday 26 September to benefit McMillan Cancer Relief. Coffee will be served all day in the offices of J & R Smith, Undertakers, Main Street, and everyone is cordially invited to drop in for a coffee to help McMillan Cancer Relief. Perhaps locals may want to organise a coffee morning to help this very worthy cause.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Beith Historical Society begins its new session on Thursday 25 September at 8.00 pm in the Eglinton Inn. The speaker is Pauline Megson, Assistant Inspector of Historical Buildings, Historic Scotland based in Edinburgh. Pauline has been very busy in Beith over recent months looks at all aspects of the town’s old buildings and she has been delighted with what she has unearthed. Her talk is entitled: Beith – A Hidden Architectural Gem. Old and new members will be made most welcome.
YOUNG FARMERS
Beith & District Young Farmers’ club held their beef and sheep stockjudging on Monday 8th September at Hauplands Farm, West Kilbride and the results were as follows: Stockjudging, junior girls 3rd equal Jennifer Mair and Susan Logan 2nd Allison Reid 1st Carol Kennedy. Senior girls 3rd Louise Parker 2nd Anne Reid 1st Jennifer Logan. Junior boys 3rd Graeme McCarter 2nd William Smith 1st Alex Wilson. Senior boys 3rd Ross Gilbert 2nd Walter Mitchell 1st Gareth Scott. Associate boys 2nd William Chalmers 1st David Wilson. Open 3rd Tom Logan 2nd John Wilson 1st Duncan Campbell. Reason giving, senior girls 1st Anne Reid. Senior boys 2nd Gareth Scott 1st Stuart Logan. Demonstartion, senior girls 1st Anne Reid. Senior boys 2nd Gareth scott 1st Stuart Logan. Winners of the sweepstakes were Gareth Scott and Carol Kennedy. Winners of the side competition were Walter Mitchell and Archie Paterson. Winner of the Holmbyre Trophy was Gareth Scott. The results from stocksman of the year was 3rd Anne Reid 2nd Gareth Scott 1st and winner of the stocksman of the year trophy was Stuart Logan. Well done everyone! The next meeting of the winter syllabus is the root and industrial on Monday 29th September. For a list of competition entries please contact Julie on 01294 832262 or Gareth on 01294 832249.
BEITH CAMERA CLUB
Beith Camera Club held its first meeting
of the new season at the Community
Centre last Thursday evening. Following a long-established tradition, several
members displayed the results of their camera-work during the summer holidays.
Lesley Mercer, David Kerr and Annette Hepburn put on an entertaining slide
show-show that prompted the audience to ask for an encore. Annette agreed to
show more of her delightful views of her visits to St. Kilda and Mingulay at a
later date. By way of a contrast Alastair Knox,
the club's master of the new digital imaging techniques, put on a short sequence
of pictures using a digital projector to demonstrate some clever software that
enables images to be faded seamlessly from one to another. Alastair invited the
members to use the the software and hardware during the forthcoming session to
develop a series of audio-visual presentations. The club will meet in the lounge
at the Community Centre at 7.30pm each
Thursday and newcomers are welcome to attend.
AGM
Tiny Tots playgroup are holding their AGM this Sunday (21 September) in the lounge of the Eglinton Inn at 8.00 pm. Everyone is cordially invited to attend.
HMS DASHER TALK
Ardrossan based author, John Steele will be giving an illustrated talk on Friday 3rd October in Biggert Hall, Trinity Church. Dalry at 2.00 pm to members of Dalry Leisure Club. John is vice president of Beith and District Writers Group. Entitled "The Mystery of HMS Dasher Resolved,” he will reveal more of the fascinating history of this naval disaster which was shrouded in war time secrecy. John and Noreen Steele have spent countless hours researching the history of HMS Dasher which sank between Arran and Ardrossan on 27 March 1943 with loss of 379 lives. This was to be one of the largest catastrophes in British naval history when the converted aircraft carrier blew up and sank in the Firth of Clyde. This is a fascinating talk which includes links to the Man Who Never Was - the allied ruse to deceive the Germans about the likely point of mainland Europe invasion.
CANCER SUPPORT
Billy Haining, organizer of Beith Cancer Support Group passes on his sincere thanks for a donation of £100 in memory of Frank Fraser, 2 Dipple Court, Kilbirnie, which was donated by his family.
LADY BOWLERS
Last Wednesday the ladies of Beith Bowling Club were involved in their usual friendly wappenschaw on the club green in good weather conditions. After a close competition the winning triple was Ann Johnston, Rose Rae and Sally Ann Brennan (skip). Prizes were kindly donated by Nan Frew.
MINISTER DEPARTS
Following the morning service at Beith High Church last Sunday, the congregation joined in a special buffet lunch to mark the departure of Rev Andrew Black from Beith High linked with Trinity to his new charge of Irvine Relief Church, Bourtreehill. Rev Black and his wife, Isobel, received a number of farewell gifts on behalf of several church organisations. This Sunday there is a joint service for Trinity and High to be held in Trinity Church which will be the final service taken by Rev Andrew Black before he departs for pastures new at Bourtreehill with the kindest wishes of the congregations of Beith Trinity and High.
COURSES
Arabica Bistro & Internet Café located above the Riverhills Chinese are offering a first for the community of Beith in the form of free introductory internet courses throughout October. The course is aimed at the first time users and is software assisted. Spaces are limited so interested parites should book early to be guaranteed a place. All participants will receive a free disc which is titled, Internet Made Easy. This package has been developed by the Scottish Executive’s Open Scotland and Learn Direct Team. This software will assist the user through friendly interactive menus to help develop there skills in computing. You can also learn how to burn CDs, laminate and bind documents and a whole host of other office related facilities or on offer which will prove invaluable. Assistance can also be given in the preparation CVs and guidance given on interview techniques. The courses will be held in the new Digital Media Centre located in the second level of the Bistro which is open for members of the community to use. The Internet Access Point will be open from 9am till 4.30pm at a cost of £1.00 per hour. The Official Memorial site of Dr Henry Faulds is hosted from here and gives a great insight to a great scientific discovery, the fingerprint. Other sites hosted from Arabic Centre include www.arabicagroup.com /www.northayrshire.co.uk /www.henryfaulds.com / www.beithbowlingclub.co.uk. The business community are also reminded that the launch of the new local business directory aimed at putting all the local shops and trade services within the community onto the internet. This will create a better awareness to community members as regards what Beith has to offer and give all the business people of the town a window of opportunity to sell themselves. The cost for this service starts at £20.00 per year for a full page hosting with images. All proceeds raised from the sale of adverting space will go towards running the community web site www.beith.com which is shortly to be launched. Packs are already being widely distributed but if you have not received one please call 01505 504489 or contact Christine at the Cross Pharmacy.
POSH DOGS
Beith will soon have the poshest dogs in Scotland! No longer will we hear shaggy dog tales or see dogs with shaggy tails or have them barking up the wrong tree. The town’s pet show, Paws ‘N’ Claws at 19 Main Street is now offering a stylish dog grooming service. So, if your dog is looking a little down in the mouth and needs a nice make over, drop in to Paws ‘N’ Claws or contact them on 01505-502324. If you don’t, you may end up in the dog house! On seeing the advert for this service one local wag was overheard saying that if Beith’s world famous barber, Dougie Bates, is perchance closed then those in need of an urgent hair cut can now nip into Paws ‘N’ Claws for a short back and sides! Could only happen in Beith, eh!
MODEL RAIL
Tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday all roads lead to Dam Park, Ayr for the 27th annual model rail exhibition hosted by Ayr Model Railway Club in Ayr Technical College. This is a very popular event and takes grown men back to those halcyon days of steam railways in an era when the national network seemed to largely operate on time. On Saturday the exhibition runs from 10.00 am until 5.00 pm whilst on Sunday it begins at 11.00 am until 5.00 pm. Seems like a smashing day out daddies and weans, eh!
GATESIDE WRI
Gateside WRI recently held their first meeting of the new session in the Patrick Memorial Hall. Mrs Catherine McCarter, president, gave a warm welcome to all present. Minutes were read my Mabel Campbell and after business was attended to, the president introduced Mr Allan Mirrison, author, who gave a very humorous account of his writings. The competitions for the evening were then judged. The Rosebowl for a jar a raspberry jam was won by Mavis Campbell. The Marion Fulton Quaich for a pot of parsley resulted in 1st Moira McMillan, 2nd Jean McIntyre and 3rd Charlotte Nicol. The next meeting will be held in the Patrick Memorial Hall on Thursday, 2 October when Maggie Magee, Fundraising co-ordinator of Hanzel Foundation will be the speaker. There will also be a Hansel Christmas sales table. The Rosebowl will be for a tub of fruit salad and the Garven Trophyfor two puff pastry sausage rolls. New members will be made most welcome.
HAPPY CHAPPERS
Two weeks of results for the famous happy chappers at Beith Community Centre. The winners of the dominoes on Tuesday were: 1st A Smith, 2nd E Jamieson and 3rd M Kennedy. The whist was won by J Reid, with F McCreadie and S Brennan second equal. On Thursday the domino results were: 1st E Jamieslon, second J McCauslane and third equal M Kennedy and M Carey. The whist winner was M Montgomery, with B Hendry second and F McCreadie third. Last Tuesday the dominoes was won by J McCauslane, with A Smith second and M Gardiner third. The whist winner was M Wilson with J Reid second and B Smith and S Brennan third equal. Last Thursday the domonoes was won by Mrs M Gardiner with M Kennedy second and J Reid third. There was no whist on Thursday.
HOUSING OFFICE CLOSES
As reported last week in this column, locals in Beith who pay their Council rent via the NAC Housing Office in Beith’s Main Street are decidedly unhappy. This office is scheduled to close done on Friday 3 October due to health and safety reasons connected with the building. This means that local folk who paid their rent direct to the office have now to arrange for direct debits from the bank, payment via the post office or payment direct to any other NAC Housing Office. The positive side is that there will be a repairs freephone located in Beith Public Library to enable tenants to report faulds direct to Dalry Area Housing Office. There were many murmurings of discontent at this enforced change, especially be older residents who seemed very happy with the former arrangements.
TODDLER GROUP
Plans are afoot to organised a baby and toddler group in the Patrick Memorial Hall, Gateside. The group would meet from 9.00 am until 11.00 am and there would be a variety of activities to keep the little ones busy as well as play facilities and snacks. The mothers would also enjoy adult conversation and share stories and experiences. Interested? Contact Gill on 01505-500010 or May on 01505-503193
ABSEIL
Iain Irons (16) of Barrmill Road, Beith was flying high last Sunday afternoon. Iain, a 6th year student at Garnock Academy, took part in a sponsored abseil of around 100 feet from the roof of Inverclyde Royal Infirmary, Greenock, to raise funds for a new hydrotherapy pool in the hospitals physiotherapy department. Iain, who generally keeps his feet firmly on the ground, is a member of Beith Open Award Group and last year completed his silver level Duke of Edinburgh’s award and has recently completed all aspects of his gold level award. Well done, Iain.
GARNOCK ACADEMY
The Young Enterprise Team at Garnock Academy are currently planning their special project for the year. They are about to begin a project that will see them publishing a book of photographs of Garnock Academy pupils and staff down through the years. They are keen to obtain photographs for inclusion in this book and anyone with photographs of any events at Garnock from the inception of the school until now are cordially invited to send their photographs to the Young Enterprise team via the school office. It would be helpful if details of those in the photograph and the event and approximate date could be recorded on the back of the photograph together with the name and address of the sender. So, come on ex Garnockians, dig deep into your own personal photographic archives to help the enterprising youngsters produce a fabulous book taking everyone on a happy journey down memory lane. The Garnock Academy Young Enterprise team have regularly appeared in the Scottish finals of this event. So, with your help, the planned reminiscence project could see them scaling new heights.
NEW BOOK
A new limited edition book entitled, Beith Bygones – A Pictorial Journey Down Memory Lane, by Donald L Reid is now on sale priced at £5.99 at several outlets in Beith including Burns, Newsagent, Eglinton Street; Arabica Bistro, Main Street; Brighstparks at the Strand; McConnell Florist and Chatterbox Café both in Main Street or direct from Donald L Reid, 7 Manuel Avenue, Beith, Tel 01505-503801 or E: donaldleesreid@hotmail.com. Since the launch of the book on 1 September it has sold over 550 copies with books already winging their way to Canada, USA, New Zealand and Australia. Royalties arising from the sale of the book will benefit the Henry Faulds Society with a donation to Beith and Gateside Primary Schools. For those interested in the social history of the Garnock Valley, two other local history books are currently available. The Beith Supplement – The Story of Beith’s Newspaper and In the Valley of Garnock – Beith, Dalry & Kilbirnie are packed full of photographs and information about the social history of this special corner of North Ayrshire. Copies are available from Donald L Reid as show above.
RATS
Residents Against Tip Site (RATS) are holding a race night tonight (Friday) as their latest fund raising event as they continue with their plans the thwart the proposal for a landfill site at Trearne Quarry, Gateside. The event will be held in Beith Community Centre on tonight (Friday) with the first race seeing the ponies trotting off at 7.30 pm. Tickets are £2.50 and available from any RATS committee member or simply turn up on the evening.
SCOUTS
Stand to attention, listen carefully and no dib, dib, dibbing or dob, dob, dobbing! Beith Scouts are on the look out for adult Scout Helpers. The Beith Troop meet each Tuesday evening from 7.00 pm and 9.00 pm in the BB Hall in Head Street. For more information contact Shona McLaughlan on 01563-539934 or drop in to the BB Hall on the night for a chat. Sad to say, but most organisations for young people are in urgent need of more volunteers as rules and regulations mean that there has to be a higher ratio of adults helpers to young people. If you think that you could spare some time to be an occasional helper, then this would be greatly appreciated. So, get ready to dib, dib, dib as you volunteer to Scout your way in the wonderful world of voluntary youth work.
BEITH TOWN CENTRE INITIATIVE
Beith Town Centre Initiative (BTCI) are busy planning their next fund raising event to ensure that Beith has another cracking success with their Lights and Laughter parade and late night shopping event on Friday, 5 December. Local folk will recall the superb event held last year and plans are well advance to ensure that the 2003 event will be even brighter and better. You can help the shopkeepers and businesses achieve their objective by supporting the car book sale to be held on Sunday 28 September from 10.00 am until 3.00 pm in Dickson Court Car Park. Car booters pay £5 whilst vans are asked for £10 donation. For further information about this event telephone 01505-502211.
BEITH TRINITY CHURCH PLAYGROUP
Beith Trinity Church Playgroup are now taking registrations now for session 2003-2004. The Playgroup is staffed and managed by qualified and highly experienced personnel and works in partnership with North Ayrshire Council and offers funded places for 3 – 5 year olds. Places are also available for children from 2 years on a pay-as-you-go basis. Recent fund raising and lottery awards means that the group will benefit from over £3,000 worth of new equipment which will greatly enhance the presentation of learning experiences within the play setting. For more information why no drop into Trinity Church Hall on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday between 9.15 am and 11.45 pm and have a chat with play leaders Lesley, Sharon and Jane (0787-0125677) or call the chairperson, Lyn Brown on 01505-506135.
CLAIVOYANT NIGHT
Barrmill Community Association cordially invite you to attend a Night of Clairvoyance with Margaret Buxton and Sally Dreyer in Barrmill Community Centre on Wednesday, 8 October at 7.30 pm. Tickets are £5 and include refreshment and are available from any committee member or simply turn up on the evening.
DISABILITY FORUM
Garnock Valley Disability Forum met last Wednesday afternoon in Bridgend Community Centre for their reconvened meeting. A period of silence was observed in memory of minute secretary, Mrs Mary Waite who recently died after a short illness. Mary had been a very committed member of the group and assisted in a variety of tasks. Her husband, Willie Waite is chairman of the Forum. Members were reminded that the annual dance was arranged for Friday 17 October in Dalry Bowling Club from 8.00 pm till late. Tickets are £5 and available from any Forum member. The speaker for the afternoon was volunteer helper, Donald L Reid, who gave an illustrated talk on Dr Henry Faulds – Beith’s pioneer of fingerprint science. Donald highlighted the crucial role as a pioneer of fingerprints played by Dr Faulds who was born at 39 Head Street, Beith and attended school in the town. After the collapse of his father’s warehouse business, Henry Faulds was forced to go to work aged 13 years in Glasgow. However, by dint of his personal commitment he achieved his ambition of becoming a doctor having trained for a time under Lord Jospeh Lister in Glasgow. Faulds then became a medical missionary in India and later Japan where he became Surgeon Superintendent of Tsukiji Hospital and later declined the offer to become surgeon to the Imperial Household because of his work with the poor. Faulds was seeing around 200 outpatients every day and had a particular interest in working with the blind. Indeed he developed a raised system of script which was a precursor of braille. He became famous for his scholarly work on Japan and his book, Nine Years in Nipon, is still regarded as classic work. However, it was to be as a pioneer of fingerprints that he became famous and controversial. In 1880 he published his findings on how fingerprints could be used for forensic purposes in the scientific journal, Nature. Sadly, Faulds role as a pioneer was never fully acknowledged during his lifetime, but with the publication of the book, Fingerprints by Dr Colin Beavan, his pioneering role is becoming more widely known, especially in Ayrshire and his home town of Beith. Donald went on to explain how the Dr Henry Faulds Society was formed in 2002 in Beith with the aim of honouring the town’s most famous son with a fitting memorial which would right a wrong and go some way towards putting North Ayrshire and Beith on the international tourist map. Donald hoped that one day every school child in Beith and district and indeed throughout North Ayrshire would learn about Dr Henry Faulds and be proud that he was born and educated in Beith. A vote of thanks for accorded to the speaker by Miss Jean Gilbert and a donation was made to the Henry Faulds Society.
LADIES NIGHT
Calling all ladies! Have your diary ready and wait for this cracker! A ladies night is being held in the Strand on Friday, 26 September from 8.00 pm until 1.00 am. This sizzling evening of entertainment is strictly for women only and includes a superb buffet. Tickets are £7 from the Strand or simply turn up on the evening. One can only wonder why the poor men folk of Beith are not being invited to this evening of entertainment! Just doesn’t seem fair, does it lads!
ARTS GUILD
Beith Arts Guild series of concerts gets underway for the new session. On Sunday 21 September at 2.30 pm in Beith Community Centre they welcome R3 Tenors with Janet Henderson, mezzo soprano. This happy group will sing their way into your hearts with a varied repertoire of song to please everyone including solos and duets. Tickets at £8 with £5 concessions.
CHOIR
The Cunninghame Choir has begun rehearsals for their winter concert. In December they will perform excerpts from Gilbert & Sullivan and various Christmas Carols. The date and place of this concert will announced later. As ever, new members will be made most welcome. Contact Alan on 01505-504413 or come to rehearsals on Wednesday at 7.30 pm in Beith Community Centre.
BADMINTON
Beith Badminton Club has now resumed and is keen to attract new members. The club meets every Tuesday evening in Beith Community Centre from 8.00 pm – 10.00 pm. For further information turn up on the evening or contact Gail Spiers on 01505-685343.
CLERK WANTED
Gateside Primary School Board are keen to recruit someone to take on the role of Clerk to the School Board. This involves recording minutes of meetings and other administrative tasks. Anyone who wishes further information is asked to contact Mrs McGuigan, head teacher, Gateside School
TODDLERS
Trinity Church Toddler Group resumed on Thursday, 4 September from 9.30 am – 11.00 am in Trinity Church Hall. Vacancies are available for children from birth to three years and a warm and friendly welcome is assured. Drop in to the hall where you will be made welcome to have a chat with the play leaders and learn more about the Trinity toddler group.
BARRMILL JOLLY BEGGARS
President N M Henderson and all officer bearers and cronies of Barrmill Jolly Beggars Burns Club No 593 pass on their sincere condolences to the family of Simpson C Jamieson, 96, Beith’s oldest man who died on 13 September, five days before his 97th birthday. Simie was a great lover of the works of Robert Burns and a sought-after speaker for many years. He was twice past president of the club and was also Honorary President. He contributed greatly to the affairs of the Jolly Beggars over many years going back to the early Barrmill days. Many cronies will fondly remember Simie as he invariably led off the informal social evening following the annual St Andrew’s Dinners with his enthusiastic renditions of that great favourite song, Westering Home. Many folk will be sitting thinking of him now and singing along with Simie. This was always the precursor to a great social evening. Simie will be sadly missed and fondly remembered.
MOTOR CYCLE
Last Saturday, Ewan McDonald and John Raeside, Beith’s motor cycle fast men, took part in the East Fortune racing event in the 400 cc class over two days. Both performed well in the first race with John coming in 8th and Ewan hot on his heels in 9th position in a field of 27 top notch riders. In the second race John was again placed 8th but the daredevil Ewan skidded out on the 5th lap and his race came to a premature end. Fortunately, Ewan was unhurt, but his pristine racing machine was in a sorry state and needed more than a little attention and consequently his racing weekend came to a sticky end. On Sunday, in the first race John also took a tumble as he forced his way towards the leaders. Luckily, he managed to have his bike ready for the second race where he powered his way to 8th place. In the last race of the day John went one better finishing in 7th place and in the process picked up his first prize money of the season. Congratulations to both John and Ewan who have steadily improved throughout the season. The last race meet of the season will be held at Knockhill on Sunday, 5 October when both flying Beithites will again be on the starting grid.
MAT RATS
Garnock Valley Mat Rats meet in Ladeside Pavilion, Kilbirnie every Friday. Classes for children from 18 months to 3 years is held from 12.45 pm – 1.30 pm; from 1.30 pm – 2.15 pm for 3 – 5 years; 2.15 pm – 3.00 pm also for 3 – 5 years; 3.00 pm – 3.45 pm for 18 months – 3 years. Parents with children who fall into the above age groups are cordially invited to drop into Ladeside Pavilion any Friday afternoon where organiser, Claire Stewart, will be happy to explain the benefits of gymnastics for children.
FREE GARDENERS
Archie Chalmers of Stewarton is researching the history of the the Robert Burns Lodge of Free Gardeners of which there was a branch in Beith. This was a type of Friendly Society which paid benefits to members when they were ill and unable to work. Anyone with information about the Beith Lodge of Free Gardeners is asked to contact the Beith correspondent who will be pleased to pass on any information to Stewarton based Archie Chalmers.
ALZHEIMER
Like cancer, there can be few folk whose lives haven’t been touched by a relative or friend who suffers from Alzheimers. Many people care on a day to day basis for someone with dementia and this can be a 24 hour, 7 day a week job. Alzheimer Scotland invite local people to organise a TEAriffic tea party to raise funds to ensure that research into dementia can continue apace. They are keen for as many people as possible to have people round for a tea party and invite donations from guests. Every £1 raised helps improve the quality of life for those facing this devastating illness. They suggest that in addition to the tea party, the event can be made more interesting by selling cakes, raffle tickets and quiz sheets and perhaps taking part in competitions. The focus of the event is World Alzheimer’s Day on 21 September, but locals can hold their tea party on any day! This seems like an interesting way to enjoy the company of friends and help raise funds for charity. Further information about this event is available from Alzheimers Scotland, Freepost EH2835, 22 Drumsheugh Gardens, Edinburgh EH3 7RN or email: diaing@alzscot.org or visit their web site at www.alzscot.org/fundraising/teaday.html If anyone in Beith and district is intending to hold a part to help this very worthy cause, please let your local correspondent know and we will give your party a special mention.
HENRY FAULDS
The Henry Faulds Society has now began a public consultation with regard to the proposed siting of a small memorial to Dr Henry Faulds (1843 - 1930) in Janefield Gardens. The consultation period will run until 31 October and slightly longer if necessary. Dr Henry Faulds, a pioneer of fingerprint science, is Beith’s most famous son and was also a writer and international medical missionary in India and Japan. He did great work for blind people and developed a system of raised script, a precursor of Braille. There is a widely held view that he should be included in the canon of Great Scots whose vision and scientific work have changed the world for the better. The proposal is that the group would secure finance for a project which would see repairs carried out to the war memorial; repair the Ralston Patrick sundial which acknowledges the gift of the gardens to Beith in 1934; replace all the kerbing around the entire gardens; replace the three dilapidated benches in the gardens and site a small memorial with appropriate groundwork to honour Dr Henry Faulds. The aim is that this would be located some fifty feet away from the war memorial within the gardens using the same type of stone as in the war memorial. This memorial would be no more than three feet high and would include a plaque highlighting the background to Beith’s fingerprint pioneer. The entire project, which would considerably improve and upgrade the gardens, and if marketed properly would encourage tourists to visit the town, is projected to cost more than £12,000. If anyone has views on this issue they are cordially invited to contact the secretary of the society in writing or leave correspondence in Beith Library where details of the project will be available to the public. This week a letter was forwarded to the HQ of the Royal Mail requesting that consideration be given to producing a special stamp in honour of Beith’s Dr Henry Faulds in acknowledgement of his crucial role as a pioneer of fingerprints. Any group or organisation wishing to learn more about Dr Henry Faulds or about this proposed project should contact the secretary, Donald L Reid, 7 Manuel Avenue, Beith KA15 1BJ on 01505-503801 or email: donaldleesreid@hotmail.com or visit the web site on: www.henryfaulds.org or www.arabicaonline.co.uk
DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD
Registration is now open for Beith High linked with Trinity Church Senior Youth Group to undertake activities leading to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at bronze and silver level. The first meeting of the group will be held in the High Church Hall at 7.00 pm on Sunday, 28 September, but it is preferable that those wishing to take part are registered beforehand as there is the usual paperwork which requires to be completed. The numbers participating at bronze level will be limited to a maximum of 20 young people, and those who may wish to join are invited to contact Donald L Reid (503801) or Janet Osborne (503504) in the first instance from whom registration forms and a programme of activities for 2003/2004 can be obtained. There will be a registration fee of £25 which includes the appropriate award book and £1 is also payable at each meeting which are held in the High Church Hall on a Sunday evening. Beith Group are currently developing an award web site which can be visited on: http://awardgroup.beith.org where they can register and keep up to date with developments.
PLAYGROUP
Beith Community Centre playgroup provide excellent child care and education provision and they are currently taking registrations for the new session. The playgroup is open on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday each week from 9.30 am until 11.45 am. There is a full complement of trained staff including a fully qualified nursery nurse with 15 years experience and a capable nursery assistant with 5 years experience. Immediate funded places are available for children in North Ayrshire aged 3 years and limited places are available for children aged 2 ½ years. The emphasis of the playgroup is always on fun and enjoyment whilst learning in a happy and secure environment. Anyone interested in finding out more about the playgroup is invited to contact Helen on 506403.
ANGLING
Sunday saw the last competitions of the
season with the St Inan’s Anglers taking part in the Jamieson Trophy, sponsored
by AGB Engineering and fished in showery and blustery conditions. Despite that,
nine of the eleven anglers recorded fish. The winner was Jeff Barrie, with four
fish for 8lb 4oz, second was Robert Aitken with two fish for 4lb 14oz and third
was Jim Black with two fish for 3lb 14oz. The Knox Trophy for junior members was
also fished, and was won by Mark McNaughton with two fish for 3lb 10oz.
Also fished this week was a challenge match between the President and
Secretary's team. This match was fished on a points basis, with a point awarded
for each fish caught and returned. The President's team proved to be stronger
on the day, winning by four points to one, including one fish caught by a member
who appeared to be sleeping at the time.
1st BEITH BB
All sections at 1st Beith BBs have now settled into a routine, with a
full programme of
activities organised for the winter. Badge work for the Junior and Company
sections
will start soon. Numbers have increased slightly this week, but there are still
a number of boys who were members last year who have not yet returned. We will
be delighted to see all former members back, and there is still room for any new
members who may wish to come along. As usual, if anyone has some spare time and
would like to get involved in rewarding voluntary work, the BBs can offer this
opportunity. Why not drop in for an initial chat with the leaders.
COUNTRY & WESTERN
A Country and Western evening will be held in Longbar Community Centre on Friday 3 October from 8 pm till 11.30 pm. Tickets priced £3.50 which includes a light supper are lable from Sandra at Brightsparks, Strand, Beith on 01505-503625 or Roberta on 01505-683309. The music will be played by James on keyboard and there will be the ever popular line dancing sessions. All the proceeds from the evening will be donated to Beith Town Centre Initiative (BTCI) to help with their 2003 Lights and Laughter parade and late night shopping event scheduled for Friday, 5 December.
CHURCH SERVICE
The monthly church service in Barrmill Village Hall will be held this Sunday (21st) at 6.00 with Rev Fiona C Ross officiating. Regular worshippers are asked to note that this is a week earlier than usual.
RANGERS SUPPORTERS
Beith Saracen Rangers Supporters Club are running a ‘bus to Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh for the premier league game against Hearts. The ‘bus leaves Kilbirnie at 10.45 am and Kilbirnie at 11.00 am. Anyone with tickets wishing to travel on the ‘bus is asked to contact John on 01505-500264
CAN YOU HELP
William Cairns of Kilbirnie is seeking information about Gurdie or Girdie Cottages. This was a row of cottages which was formerly located to the south of Whitestanes Farm between the Beith/Dalry Road and Beith/Longbar Road. Willie lived there in his childhood years and would value any information readers might have which will help him as he pieces together his family tree. The Beith correspondent will be happy to receive and pass on this information or readers can contact Willie Cairns by e-mail: wilcair@sands109.fsnet.co.uk
BOWLING
Beith Bowling Club’s Tour President Derek Logue and his tartan army took Perth's fair City's bowling clubs by storm last weekend in winning all three games. The first game was at Scone Recreation BC just outside Perth on Friday night, the second on Saturday afternoon at West End BC in Perth, and on Sunday the game was in a lovely little village called Almond Valley about 4 miles from Perth. The tour team was based at the Isle of Skye Hotel which is in a great location near the Queens Bridge which spans the River Tay. The tour was a great success and tour President Derek would like to thank all the lads for their support, especially our two minibus drivers Jim and George Wilson. After the school holidays on Friday afternoon (12th September), the youngsters now in Beith Primary class 7 took part in a triples competition and in a very close game skip Thomas Waddle, 2nd Jamie O'Hara, and lead Steven Warnock won by two shots against the triples skipped by Emma Johnstone, 2nd Jordan Pettigrew and lead Stewart Marshall. This was good practice for the forthcoming cup competition. Parents of youngsters taking part in the Eric Monk Cup on Friday 19th September are reminded that the competition could over run the 4pm finish time stated and parents will be very welcome to come along and see the bowling prowess of the youngsters.
Friday nights mixed wappenschaw on the 12th September was won by the pairs Duncan Knox (lead) and Willie McDougall.(skip). On Saturday 13th September, President Charlie Fairns welcomed 48 Members to the Gala Day which is a two bowls triple competition sponsored by Past President Charlie Thomson. After a keenly fought contest, the triples team skipped by Past President Jimmy Chesney, his 2nd Hayley McMeechan, and lead Margaret Irvine, won against skip Scott Glen, 2nd Mitch Rae and lead Emma Rose Rae. Congratulations to both teams. After the presentation of prizes Vice President Brian Monk thanked the sponsor Charlie Thomson, Lady President Ann McCorquodale and the ladies who served the buffet, Greta & Meta for selling the raffle tickets which raised £97.50p for the club funds, and to all the members that took part in the competition. It was with great sadness that Vice President Brian Monk called for a minute's silence for one of the Club Elder Statesmen, S C Jamieson who died on Saturday 13th September. The Club flag was then lowered by Immediate Past President John Simpson as a mark of respect. Beith Bowling Club Committee and Members wish to extend their sympathy to his family.
