ARDROSSAN & SALTCOATS HERALD
DONALD L REID
(Tel. 01505-503801 e-mail: donaldleesreid@hotmail.com)
SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER 2003
029
CYCLING COPPER FILLS COFFERS: Beith cycling policeman, Brian Smith, raised almost £1,300 when he recently completed the epic end-to-end cycle marathon. See Beith local notes.
(Photo: Donald L Reid)
030
WEDDED BLISS: Fraser Reid (son of the Beith correspondent) and Heather Thompson of Beith were married by Rev Fiona C Ross last Saturday in Beith High Church. The happy couple pose for a photograph.
(Photo: Donald L Reid)
033
YOUNG BERTIE: Gatesider, Bertie Hobkirk, who died recently shown as he was in this photo of circa 1946. See Beith local notes for full tribute.
(SP)
034
HAPPY MEMORIES: Gatesider, Bertie Hobkirk, who died recently, with his sit-up-and-beg bicycle. He enjoyed cycling and travelled to work on his bike. See Beith local notes for full tribute.
(SP)
35
BEITH’S OLDEST MAN: Simpson C Jamieson, better known simply as Simie, who died recently was Beith’s oldest man. See Beith notes for full tribute.
PHOTOS AS JPEG ATTACHMENTS
BEITHITE PASSES ON
Beith’s oldest man, the inimitable Simpson Calderwood 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. A man who enjoyed being at the cutting edge of many groups and organisations, he was very proud of his status as the town’s oldest man for the last few years. This mantle has now been passed to another great character of the town, champion bowler Harry McMaster JP with the kindly Jimmy Quinn, a veteran of Beith Harriers now promoted to second place. Simie was a fascinating character and a very proud old Spierian. He was a past president of the Old Spierian Dramatic Club and doubtless many of his best pubic speaking performances had their roots firmly planted at Spiers School. He truly lived life to the full. Simie was born and brought up in Beith, one of a family of seven, being the last of his generation and incredibly living to see five monarchs on the throne during his lifetime. Simie won a scholarship to the renowned Spiers School where he was educated, there learning to play rugby, developing a great love for the game. Indeed he continued to watch rugby matches up until five years ago. Simmie was very athletic, playing football for Beith Amateurs and in his younger days he also played badminton, tennis, cricket, bowls and quoits. He was actively involved in numerous sporting and social organisations until just a few years ago when he became increasingly frail. Simie was very much an organisations man and relished the company of his fellow man. In fact it was often said that the only organisations he never became president of were the WRI and the Church Guild. With his passing many organisations have lost a great friend who gave wise counsel. When Simie joined an organisation he inevitably became its president. One thing Simie always enjoyed was being in charge. He was always happy to be at the forefront where he could make known his opinions, expecting things to be done they way he thought he should. He spent most of his life in Beith, only leaving the town for five years to go and work for furniture producers, Sklan in Stoke Newington, designing furniture. It was there that he met Ella with whom he was to share a loving marriage for 23 years, never really getting over being widowed so young. Simie served his time as a furniture designer with Balours, West of Scotland Cabinet Works, which later became McIntoshes. He had a great love for furniture and had an extraordinary talent for drawing freehand. As a manager at Balfours, he expected high standards of work and was never slow to chide those who fell short of his expectations. He was forthright, fair and honest in his dealings and everyone knew exactly where they stood with Simie. What you saw was what you got. He was musical, having a lovely singing voice and sang for many years in Beith High Church choir. He was for many years property convener of the church and rarely missed Sunday services during his long life. He loved to sing at family gatherings and his all-time favourite was Westering Home. He was a great lover of the works of Robert Burns and was twice past president and later honorary president of Barrmill Jolly Beggars Burns Club. He loved to get on his feet at any social occasion, almost considering it a slight if he was not asked to speak. If fact he simply didn’t really enjoy attending a Burns Supper if he was not on the programme and on the odd occasion when that happened he was invariable asked to speak anyway. Public speaking was an art form which he relished and he could happily speak for twenty minutes without a note and would have the audience spellbound. He was a freemason and joined Beith St. Johns No 157 in 1942 and served as Master of the Lodge in 1956 and 1957. He was a great supporter of Garnock Rugby Club and he was also honorary president and enjoyed attending games to give his support until a few years before his death. He was a good bowler and a life long member of Beith Bowling Club where he too was honorary president marking his contribution to the club over many years. Well known Beithite, R Allan Richardson, director of Hampton and McMurray, Glasgow, pointed out that in 1947 Simie was working for a time as a furniture designer with H Morris, Glasgow. At that time Glasgow Corporation decided to give the then Princess Elizabeth, our current monarch, furniture for a fitted bedroom as a wedding gift. It was Simie who designed the furniture and that was something of which was justifably proud. He was also had a great knowledge of the Scottish furniture industry. Beith’s oldest man has passed on and will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by locals from a variety of organisations with whom he was associated. Simie is survived by Ian, Ann, Tim and Vivienne, as well as grandfather his his nine grandchildren and great grandfather to his four great grandchildren. A well attended memorial service was held in Beith High Church on Thursday 18 September conducted by Rev Fiona Ross followed by a service of interment at Beith Cemetery.
TRIBUTE – BERTIE HOBKIRK
Gatesider, Robert ‘Bertie’ Hobkirk, 73, of Reek Street, Gateside, 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 enjoyed sharing his experiences of life with others. Bertie was born in Glasgow and where he lived in Parliamentary Road. He came to Gateside, aged 10 years, and lived at Glenfern in Reek Street which previously had been the home of his grand parents. Interestingly, the house was named after two dogs owned by his grandparents – Glen and Fern. He immediately took to rural life and continued his education at the village school and Beith Academy. Leaving school aged 14 years, Bertie trained as a baker at Beith Co-op Bake house. He was highly skilled as a Master Baker and remained in the employed of Beith Co-op for some 25 years until it closed around 1969. He then worked with Chrsyler at Hillington, first of all on the car production line and later as a groundsman, an out door job he thoroughly enjoyed. He married Barrmillian, Isabel, on 23 February 1951 by legendary Beith minister, Rev J Murray Woodburn in Beith manse. They had three of a family – Jim, Ann and Catherine – and grandchildren Neil, Kirsty, James, Joanne, Lorna and Graham and grandchildren Dylan and Declan. Bertie was a proud freemason. He joined Lodge Beith St Johns No 157 in 1950 when he was 19 years of age. He became Master of that lodge in 1961 and 1962 progressing to become a Past Provincial Grand Master of Ayrshire and Junior Deacon of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. He was also an honorary member of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. Very popular in freemasonary circles, he attained the 31st degree in masonary. He was inducted as an elder at Beith High Church in 1970 and was a faithful elder for 33 years. However, it was in Gateside where he made a special contribution to the life of the village community. In 1969 together with the late Angus Boyce, he resurrected Gateside Horticultural Society and was president for 27 years, giving the village an annual show which ranked amongst the finest in Ayrshire for a small village. He had honorary presidency of the society conferred on him when he retired from active committee work in 1996. A very knowledgeable gardener, especially in relation to vegetables, he was a sought-after judge and his services were requested for many years at all the major shows including Ayr, West Kilbride, Kilwinning, Dalry, Kilbirnie, Largs, Arran and Rothesay. He especially loved going to Rothesay, a looked forward to his trip doon the watter and renewing old acquaintances in the process. Isabel recalls that one occasion he grew 36 different varieties of potatoes for display at Gateside show, such was his enthusiasm for horticulture. Around 1983 Bertie mentioned to a casual friend that he would really like to own a donkey. This off-the-cuff remark rebounded on him when the friend duly arrived at Gateside with a donkey, much to Bertie’s bemusement. He had to quickly acquire a large shed in which to house this new and temperamental new family member. Not only that but within a few months the donkey produced a foal, which sadly died within 12 months from a heart attack. However, Bertie and his donkey, Jessie, were to become well known around Beith and district. The donkey appeared in countless parades during the summer months and at Easter parades and nativity plays in Beith and Houston. Bertie was a very keen golfer, an expert bee keeper and accomplished baker. He worked as a baker at Crosshouse Hospital until his retrial. On the 10th anniversary of the hospital he created the most wonderful cake in the shape of the building together with roads, vehicles and people. A real work of art. He also had his eccentricities which endeared him to many. One Christmas many years ago he was late preparing presents and not having purchased gift paper, he simply wrapped the presents in copies of old newspapers and tied them with baling string. This was to become a tradition and the family always looked forward to receiving their special presents wrapped as only Bertie could. When greeted by locals saying, “How you doin’ Bertie,” he would often give a stock reply, “I’m abin the ground, friend and long may it continue.” A greatly loved and respected man in the village, for many years he cycled everywhere on an old ‘sit-up-and-beg’ style bicycle. The village blacksmith, Bob Marshall, once fondly referred to Bertie by way of greeting as the Provost of Gateside. This title became Bertie’s and he took great pride in being the unofficial Provost of the village. He was consulted on all issues affecting the village and was always thoughtful and sensible in his opinions. He loved to have a crack with local folk and relished showing visitors round his extensive garden and greenhouses, and it was hilarious to see him frantically chase around his large garden to catch Jessie, the elusive and stubborn donkey, to show to children and visitors. Beith and Gateside in particular, has lost a good friend and real character with the passing of Bertie Hobkirk. There was a large attendance at the Beith High memorial service and subsequent interment at Beith cemetery on 16 September conducted by Rev Andrew Black. Bertie was a real character who will be sadly missed and fondly remembered.
FLU JABS
Beith Health Centre are holding a series of flu’ clinics during the month of October. Those who are recommended to have the flu jab are those age 65 or over or those who will be 65 before March 2004. Anyone who is under 65 and suffers from any chronic heart, kidney or lung disease or are asthmatic, diabetic or undergoing chemotherapy treatment are also recommended to have the jab. For further information either drop in to the surgery or telephone 015505-502683.
GREENHILLS RURAL
Greenhills Rural recently held their open meeting of the winter session in Barrmill Community Centre. In the absence of president, Mrs Barbara Raeside, Mrs Sheila Craig, vice president, presided and welcomed the members and guests. The organised speaker was a representative from Tesc’s, but unfortunately the speaker failed to attend. However, they were fortunate in that Mrs Wendy Smith was on hand to explain the skills of embroidery and she did so by way of illustration and example. The Reid trophy for a jar of chutney was 1st Mrs Sady Gardiner, 2nd Mrs A Jackson and 3rd Mrs Sady Gardiner. The Salver for the funniest photograph was 1st Mss M Brown, 2nd Mrs A Jackson and 3rd Mrs S Gardiner. The Jamieson vase for an Autumn arrangement was awarded to Mrs Nancy Brown. Mrs Craig announced that it was with great sadness that she had to advise of the death of two honorary members, Mrs Mary Wilson and Mrs Elizabeth Steel, both of whom had died during the summer recess. A period of silence in their memory was observed. The meeting closed with a vote of thanks to the chairperson.
YOUNG FAMERS
Beith & District Young Farmers’ Club held the first meeting of their winter syllabus on Monday 15th September and it took the form of a quiz night. The meeting was well attended and everyone had their general knowledge put to the test by Mr and Mrs Shanks who compiled the quiz. The results were as follows: juniors 2nd equal Carol Kennedy and Jennifer Wilson 1st Graeme McCater. Seniors 2nd equal Jennifer Logan and David Young 1st Gillian Reid. Associates 1st William Chalmers. The following people will go on to represent Beith at the Ayrshire quiz on Thursday 25th September. Team 1 comprises Graeme McCarter, Gillian Reid, William Chalmers and Jennifer Logan. Team 2 comprises David Young, Robbie Nisbet, Jennifer Wilson and Carol Kennedy. Good luck to the fore mentioned. Well done to David Young and Ann Wilson who took part in the Ayrshire Mr and Miss competition. The next club meeting is the root and industrial on Monday 29th September in the Patrick Memorial Hall, Gateside. All entries must be staged by 7.20pm.
For further information on club activities please contact Julie on 01294 832262, Gareth on 01294 832249 or email beithyfc@hotmail.com.
COUNCILLOR ADVISES
Locals have been concerned that ongoing work at Beith bypass at the Gateside junction seems to have come to a halt. Councillor Jean Highgate advised that she has spoken to the Roads department regarding the progress towards establishing a roundabout at this location. She has been advised that work will not start this year. The current road closure applies only until 21 September, but a further extension for two weeks has now been notified. This can, of course, be further extended as necessary. There is apparently a delay regarding land aquisition and the Scottish Executive will require to issue a compulsary purchase order. Needless to say, this will take some time. With regard to the installation of the speed camera on Dalry Road, this also will take time. There is only one manufacturer of the equipment required so Beith will have to wait in line. In the meantime it is perhaps worth remembering that we are never more in danger, or more dangerous, than when behind the wheel of a car!
CLAIRVOYANCE
The enterprising committee of Beith Playpark Action Group are hosting an evening of clairvoyance with Margaret Dreyer and Sally Buxton tonight (Friday) in Beith Community Centre beginning at 7.30 pm. Tickets are available at the door price £4.
BEITH JUNIORS WEB SITE
A brand new web site has been recently
launched to highlight the activities of Beith Juniors. It was developed by
Tommy McAdam who used to be on the Beith Juniors committee and wanted to give
the town’s Junior team some presence on the world wide web. The strange thing is
that, although the site is regularly updated, Tommy actually lives and works in
Bermuda where he has been since March this year. Mind you, the sun does’t always
shine in Bermuda. Tommy recently had to sit out a hurricane! The site has
results, fixtures, news, statistics and history as well as other informative
articles
and photographs. The address of the site is
http://www.eteamz.com/beithjuniorsfc/
Tommy’s e-mail address should anyone wish to contact him is
tommy@beithjuniorsfc.com. Tommy is keen to receive photographs of Beith
junior teams of yesteryears and any interesting anecdotes which he may include
on the web page.
WORLD’S BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING
What is apparently the world’s biggest coffee morning will be held today (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.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Beith Historical Society began its new session yesterday (Thursday) when they met at 8.00 pm in the Eglinton Inn. The speaker was Pauline Megson, Assistant Inspector of Historical Buildings, Historic Scotland based in Edinburgh. Members learned that Pauline had 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 was entitled: Beith – A Hidden Architectural Gem.
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.
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.
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 fauls 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.
DOMINOES
The Beith happy chappers had a happy chapping holiday last Tuesday. The club results for Thursday found Mrs Ina McCausland on the winners podium with Mrs M Gardiner second and Mrs M Kennedy third. There was no whist competition. The group meet each Tuesday and Thursday at 1.30 pm in Beith Community Centre. Ladies and happy chapping chappies will be made most welcome.
AGM
Beith St John’s No 157 are holding their AGM in the Masonic Lodge at 7.30 pm on Thursday, 2 October. A good turnout iS requested of all brethren.
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
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. A number of interesting photographs have been received, but many more are requested.
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.
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. Tonight (Friday) and Saturday, Beith Scouts are putting on their annual Gang Show in Beith High Church Hall with curtain up at 7.30 pm. Tickets at the door at £3 and £1.50 concession.
BOWLING
Beith Lady Bowlers were back in action on the Beith green last Wednesday in sunshine conditions when there was a pair competition. The winners were Georgie Parker and Jean Barclay. Prizes were donated by member, Marti Wilson.
BEITH BABES BLACKPOOL BOUND
The ever-so-happy women of Kids ‘R’ Us mother and toddler group are today (Friday) Blackpool bound for their annual away weekend minus kids and partners. Needless to say they are suitably attired in fancy dress as only they can! This is an annual jaunt greatly enjoyed by the happy-go-lucky self-titled braw Beith babes, otherwise known as Winnies Wondergirls. However, by way of warning, it was felt prudent that the following telegram be sent to the authorities south of the border: “Baton down the hatches. Braw Beith babes Blackpool bound.”
MASONIC CLUB
Tomorrow (Saturday) entertainment at Beith Masonic Club is provided by the popular Duke Box Matthews, making a return visit by popular demand. Entertainment runs from 8.00 pm till late and there will be the usual bingo, snowball and raffle. Entry is £2 at the door.
OUR LADY’S SALE
Our Lady’s Church is holding a jumble sale in the Chapel Hall tonight (Friday) with doors open at 6.30 pm. There will be the usual teas and coffee to give respite to the confirmed jumble goers and they plod around the many stalls seeking out bargains.
RANGERS
Saracen Rangers Supporters Club are running a bus to Ibrox Park tomorrow for the premier league game. Supporters are reminded that it leaves from Dalry at 1.30 pm, Kilbirnie at 1.45 pm and Beith at 2.00 pm. Anyone wishing to travel is asked to contact bus conveners John on 500264 or Andy on 503928 as soon as possible.
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.
RADIO CITY
A public meeting was held last Wednesday in Beith Community Centre with the aim of informing local folk about the various facilities which will be available in the Radio City complex in Kilbirnie. This is a Garnock Valley wide facility which includes a fitness suite; sauna; health eating café; gymnasium; five music recording studies; a radio broadcasting facility; child care facilities provided by Kid Care; a variety of computer training courses and internet access points; advice and support networks by trained personnel health professionals. The facility has a variety of rooms which can be used by groups and a large multi-purpose hall which can be used for community services such as dances and weddings. A full presentation on Radio City was delivered by Chief Executive, John Stewart and this was followed by presentations by Rita Hopper of Kid Care; Chris Bradley, Head of Music at James Watt College; Marella O’Neill of Ayrshire and Arran NHS. Each highlighted the range and variety of services which would be provided within Radio City. The speakers responded to a variety of questions from the audience. Radio City is on schedule and prior to the formal opening date it is hoped that community groups and members of the public will have the opportunity to see the state of the art facilities. It was emphasised that Radio City is a Garnock Valley wide facility aimed at improving health and quality of life. The building itself has been returned to as near the original Radio City as possible. Details of opportunities to see the centre will, in due course, be widely publicized. Exciting times ahead for the Garnock Valley. It is great to be able to report that last Saturday morning the hallmark tower of Radio City was lowered into place using a giant crane. This created great interest in the town centre. Radio City looks set to become a great asset for people in the Garnock Valley. Watch out for details of open days when you will be able to see the range and variety of services available to all sections of the community.
CAMERA CLUB
Last Thursday the meeting of Beith
Camera Club was devoted to selecting slides and
prints for the club's entry in the annual competition organised by the Ayrshire
Federation of Photographic Clubs. This is a keenly fought competition that
attracts a high standard of entries each year from the leading camera clubs in
the county. Selecting Beith's portfolio of pictures is always a difficult task
and it was made even more difficult this year by a change in the rules. No
photographer was allowed to submit more than one
work per category. It is hoped that this will make the entries more
representative of the general standard of each club's work. Each year a
different club in Ayrshire takes on the onerous job of collecting all the
entries and submitting them to an external judge for marking. The results will
be announced in a month or two, so watch this space to see if the Beith snappers
have measured up favourably to their Ayrshire counterparts.
BEITH TOWN CENTRE
Progress with Beith Town Centre Heritage Initiative is receiving favourable comments from locals. At the time of writing most of the scaffolding had been removed from the buildings at the Cross and the shape and work is now beginning on landscaping the area in front of the Cross and Auld Kirk. There does seem to be a real feel-good factor at work and returning the Cross buildings to their former glory is a good news story for Beith. Everyone involved in bringing this major project to fruition is to be heartily congratulated. The final date for completion has still to be announced, but everyone is looking forward to once again shopping at the Cross and seeing families living in the flats above.
BEITH TRINITY CHURCH PLAYGROUP
Beith Trinity Church Playgroup is now open and a warm welcome awaits new members. The Playgroup is staffed and managed by competent play leaders and worksin partnership with North Ayrshire Council. We offer funded places for 3 – 5 year olds. Places are also available for children from 2 ½ year olds. The group is open in Trinity Church Hall on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday mornings between 9.15 am and 11.45 pm. For more information drop in and have a chat with play leaders Lesley and Sharon (0787-0125677).
CLAIRVOYANT 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.
SPIERS NURSING HOME
The residents and staff of Spiers Nursing Home took part in the national tea day on behalf of Alzheimer’s Scotland. They are delighted to announce that they raised £200 for this very worthy cause. In addition, they also raised £178 for the residents Comfort Fund. They pass on their grateful thanks to everyone who donated some twenty prizes for the raffle and to staff, friends of the home and residents who helped make the day such an enjoyable success. Well done everyone at Spiers Nursing Home!
CLASS REUNION
A reunion of former pupils of Garnock Academy of 1982 was held in Dalry Inn last Friday evening when around 80 former Garnockians turned out to reminisce and enjoy the company of friends of yesteryear. By all accounts the event was a great success and the happy band danced their way into the early hours of Saturday morning. They enjoyed a first class buffet from the Dalry Inn and in the process £100 was raised which is being donated to the Beith branch of Ayrshire Cancer Support Group. Who knows, this could be the beginning of many such reunions of former pupils.
END TO END
Brian Smith, Beith’s cycling policeman, recently achieved a personal ambition when he completed the epic end-to-end cycle tour, pedaling all the way from John O’ Groats to Lands End. Although Brian decided to do this marvelous cycle ride at very short notice, he did endeavour to gain some sponsorship from local people to benefit charities. Last week Brian was delighted to announce that he raised the total sum of £1,265. He divided this sum between CHAS for their Robin House Childrens’ Hospice Project at Loch Lomond and Ayrshire Cancer Support Group via the Beith Branch. Last Thursday, Brian donned his cycling kit to hand over the monies raised to a delighted Roslyn Nealy of CHAS and Bill and Moira Haining of the Beith Branch of Ayrshire Cancer Support Group. Brian passes on his sincere thanks to everyone who made donations to help him achieve this marvelous figure for charity. Well done, Brian.
FLORAL ART
The Beith members of Kilbirnie Floral Art Club are reminded that the next meeting of the club will be held in the Walker Hall at 7.15 pm on Tuesday, 7 October. There will be a presentation entitled, Almond Blossom, by the Florist, Neilston. All welcome.
LADIES NIGHT
Calling all ladies! Have your diary ready and wait for this cracker! A ladies night is being held in the Strand on tonight (Friday) 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!
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.
BBs
There was a good attendance in all
sections at Beith BBs this week. The Anchor Boys were involved in a quiz night,
followed by various team games, while the Junior
Section have now started their badge work, which was followed by a session on
the
trampoline. The Company Section were also involved in badge work. All meetings
tonight (Friday) will be at the usual times.
ANGLING
There were no suspiciously fishy tales from the St. Inan Anglers this week. The
top notch angler were able to report reasonable catch returns this week, with
fish to 2lb recorded.
Work is still continuing on repairs and upgranding the anglers hut, with a big
effort to prepare the outside for painting before the winter. The committee have
organised a programme of work for the winter months when the weather is
unsuitable for fishing. The assistance of willing volunteers is requested.
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.
FREE GARDENERS
Archie Chalmers of Stewarton is researching the history of 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.
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. A public display has been mounted in the library and it is hoped that formal plans will soon be available as part of the display. 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. The proposal is that the Henry Faulds Society would secure finance for a project which would see repairs carried out to the war memorial which was sited in Janefield Square in 1947; 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 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 and would include a plaque highlighting the background to Beith’s famous fingerprint pioneer. The entire project, which would considerably enhance the gardens and if marketed effectively would encourage tourists to visit the town, is projected to cost more than £12,000. Initial enquiries have been made to the Heritage Lottery Fund about the proposed project. 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. 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 sites on: www.henryfaulds.org or www.arabicaonline.co.uk
SNP
Beith Branch SNP held another of their
successful Domino/Quiz Nights in Beith Community Centre on Saturday 20th of
September. These events are always well received and last Saturday's was no
exception and raised £224 for the branch funds.
The Domino Competition was won by Chris Pringle with the consolation prize going
to Emma Neil. The winning quiz team consisted of Charles and Elizabeth Fisher,
Robert and Anne Jamieson. The Quiz Consolation prize went to Jean Gilbert,
Margaret Montgomery, Agnes Jackson, Janet Madden and Elizabeth Hayes. Branch
Convener, and Quiz Master for the evening John Johnstone, would like to thank
everyone who once again supported the event. Particular thanks go to branch
members Brenda Fleming, Elizabeth Gosnay, Margaret Johnstone, Mary and Chris
Pringle and Eric Harvey for their support and enthusiasm.
DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD
The first meeting of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award group will be held in the High Church Hall at 7.00 pm this Sunday (28 September). Part of the initial meeting will be a slide show highlighted aspects of group activities over recent years and explaining the philosophy behind the award challenge. The meetings normally finish at 8.30 pm.
BOWLING CLUB
Winners of the wapenschaw at Beith Bowling Club on Friday night were Ray Lewis and Alan McFarlane.Only two more weeks left to score vital points. On Saturday the Building Fund day competition was held and forty members turned up to enjoy a fun day. Social committee members Phil Shannaghey and Derek Logue were in good form as the dosh kept coming in through various fines handed out to the members. At the end of the day the total monies raised was a fantastic £400.00. A special thanks also goes to the Friday night domino gang who donated their weekly winnings totalling £137.00 as part of the total. Phil then asked sponsor for the day , vice-president Brian Monk to present the prizes. Runners up were Lily Clark, Jean Roddie, Derek Logue Snr and Brian Monk{skip}.The winners were Jim Chesney, Anne Glen, Jean Wilson and Donald McCorquodale (skip}. Phil Shanaghey then thanked everyone who helped make this a great day. The last Garnock Valley Ex-presidents game will be held at Largs Halkshill B.C. on Sunday the 28th September at 2.00-2.30pm. The presentation of prizes will be held on Saturday the 18th October. Will any member holding a trophy from last year please return them to the club as soon as possible.Tickets will be on sale shortly at the price of £8.50. The group this year is the fantastic "OVERDRIVE".
RATS
The race night held by Residents Against Tip Site (RATS) last Friday evening. was a great success despite the organiser's late arrival. Betting was lively and the total profit for the evening was £675.RATS committee send their thanks to: the punters for being so patient (amazing what a free drink will do!), all those who bet on horses and everyone who sponsored the races. Special thanks to Colin from The Eglinton Inn for providing the bar and to Christine from the Cross Pharmacy for all her help. Everyone from RATS send their best wishes to Liz of B & A Travel for her past help and wish her a quick return to full health.
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.
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.
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
INFORMATION REQUESTED
Miss Joan Mary Burns Ramdsen of Kinka Beach, Queensland, Australia, has written to nine Beith families with the surnames Burns and Patttison. She is attempting to find out if there are any of her Scottish kin still residing in Beith. Joan is the grand daughter of the late John Ramsden and Helen Burns who were married in Head Street United Presbyterian Church (now the Boys Brigade Hall) in Beith on 31 December 1894. Her great grandfather, Robert Burns, was born in Dalry in 1853 to parents, James Steven Burns and Euphemia Proctor. Helen Burns had five siblings, the two youngest being boys, James born in Lochwinnoch in 1885 and Robert (known as Robin) born in Beith in 1888. It would appear from her research that James married Janet Anderson Crawford in 1909 and Robin wed Maggie Kennedy Johnston in 1910. It is from these two great uncles that Joan is hoping to trace the continuing Burns line. She visited Beith in October 2000 to carry out some genealogy research. An elderly lady, she declared whilst sitting in one of the Main Street Cafes that if at all possible and God willing, she would return and hopefully make contact with some of her Scottish kin. Between 1999 and 2003 she was written four volumes of family stories covering all individuals on an extensive family tree. The Scottish part included her Great grandfather, Robert Burns and his paternal and maternal ancestors together with her Great grandmother, Janet Pattison and her paternal and maternal line. Anyone who feels that they might be able to assist Joan Ramsden in her quest can obtain address details from the Beith correspondent. Unfortunately, she is not connected to the internet. It would be wonderful if someone was able to assist her in tracing her family line.
