ARDROSSAN & SALTCOATS HERALD
BEITH LOCAL NOTES
DONALD L REID
(Tel. 01505-503801 e-mail: donaldleesreid@hotmail.com)
SUNDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2003
020
DYNAMIC DUO: Billy and Moira Haining are the energetic organisers of the Beith Branch of Ayrshire Cancer Support Group. They are delighted to announced that the annual branch raffle broke all previous records bringing in £2,193.33
022
DEGREE SUCCESS: Kirsty Waddell of Beith has graduated an honours degree in Occupational Therapy from Glasgow Caledonian University. See Beith notes.
(SP)
023
AUSIE BOUND: The McClune family of Beith’s Rowan Avenue are snapped a few days before they headed for a new life in Melbourne, Australia. Jackie, Ross and Neil are looking forward to the challenges which lie ahead. See Beith notes.
(Photo: Donald L Reid – SP)
024
FAR EAST WAR: Robert Armour Smith of Coldstream Mill, Beith died in Tamakan POW camp in Thailand on 16 January 1945. See Beith notes.
(SP)
ROBERT ARMOUR SMITH
(1920 – 1945)
COLDSTREAM MILL, BEITH
Your correspondent is indebted to Margaret ‘Meg’ Smith of Coldstream Farm for information about her brother-in-law, Robert Armour Smith, which gives a brief glimpse back to the harsh realities of the Second World War. Margaret was married to his brother, Andrew Smith. Robert Armour Smith was born on 2 May 1920 at Coldstream Mill about 4 miles from Beith on the road to Lugton. The farm and mill were operated by his father, Joseph Smith who took ownership in 1911 when he married. Joseph Smith died in 1954, still never quite able to come to terms with the death of his son, Robert. Margaret’s husband, Andrew Smith then operated the farm and mill after the death of his father until he took a stroke in 1991 and died in 1997.
Robert and his brother Andrew had happily worked on the farm and operated the grain mill learning milling skills from their earliest years. When war was declared in 1939, Robert had been keen to serve in the army. However, his father had asked for an exemption from service on the grounds that Robert was required to work on the farm and operate the mill. Unknown to his father, the exemption from service was actually granted, but Robert received the letter and tore it up and determinedly joined the army in 1939. Indeed it was only after his death in 1945 that the family became aware that he had in fact been officially granted exemption from service in the forces.
After basic training, Robert was latterly posted with the Royal Corps of Signals to the Far East in January 1942. Singapore fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942 and at that time Robert was serving in Malaya. However it would seem that he was captured there sometime during February 1942. The family only received official notification of his capture on 5 August 1943. He was held prisoner in Tamakan Prisoner of War camp, Thailand where he subsequently died on 16 January 1945, age 24. He had been held captive for three years in the most appalling conditions. Indeed some 20% of Allied prisoners died in POW camps, the main causes being starvation, malaria and physical ill treatment. During his time as a POW he was only allowed to send home what amounted to standard tick box post cards to his family in Beith. These effectively gave little or no genuine personal information, but did indicate that he was alive.
At the end of the war every effort was made to find out what had happened to servicemen who were untraced POWs. A Gateside soldier, Seaton Barbour of 7th Parachute Regiment, who was also serving in the Far East, travelled to Tamakan in an attempt to trace Robert. Seaton lived at Trearne Lodge where his father was gamekeeper. A former pupil at Gateside School he knew Robert and Andrew Smith very well indeed, having been boyhood friends. Seaton was later to discover that Robert Smith had died of malaria on 16 January 1945 whilst still a prisoner at Tamakan Camp. He wrote a revealing letter (edited) to Robert’s brother, Andrew Smith of Coldstream Mill, on 2 October 1945, which graphically illustrates the cruelty inflicted on POWs and is a powerful reminder of the privations experienced by 1,000s of Far Eastern prisoners.
“I have no word about the boy (Robert Smith) yet. I searched through all the hospitals in Singapore on Saturday, trying to get some information about him from POWs who had been in No 2 and No 4 camps in Thailand and also from the lads who had been in the Signals Corps, captured in Singapore. You need not show your father or Betty this letter to give them more worry than they already have about Bobby. I don’t know if you can take in just how the Japs treated our POWs. In that hospital on Saturday I saw some sights that would make even me, look away, and I thought I had seen enough in the last five years or so to harden me to anything. If Bobby is like most of these lads it might be better if he were in another world. There’s lads in there with their hands grafted together. The Japs had skinned the hand and arms and let the flesh of both arms knit together. There were others who had their hands bolted together with an ordinary bolt. Others so thin, they’re no longer able to eat more than a mouthful at meal times. I never thought a man could live and be so thin. There’s all sorts in there, Andy, you would need to see to believe. But now for the good side of it. They are getting the best attention that money and the medical side can give them. All the best doctors and nurses in South East Asia are looking after these lads. They are maybe too weak to feed themselves, but there is a light in their eyes and the will to live. Funny kind of letter for me to write to you, but I hope you can understand what I am trying to put over. Hope this finds you, Betty and your dad all in the very best of health. Your ain pal. Seaton.”
Robert Armour Smith was buried in Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, Thailand, where a simple stone and plaque mark his final resting place thousands of miles from the scenic rural countryside of Beith.
“2365456 Signalman R A Smith, Royal Signals, 16 January 1945, age 24. Ever remembered by his family. Coldstream Mill, Beith, Ayrshire, Scotland.”
His great Niece, Lynsey Johnston of Coldstream Mill, jetted off last week on a world tour and will make a poignant visit to his grave to pay her own respects. Back at Coldstream, the dominating mill wheel is still in place, as it has been from at least 1782. However, it has rarely been operated since 1991, except for the occasional demonstration for school children. But for Margaret Smith, proud of her heritage at Coldstream, the special memories of Robert Armour Smith and her late husband, Andrew Smith, are still as strong as ever. Interestingly, the original letter written to Andrew Smith from Seaton Barbour now has a permanent place in the Imperial War Museum in London.
MINISTER DEPARTS
Following the morning service at Beith Trinity 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. The Rev Black was presented with a cheque on behalf of the congregation by one of the oldest members of the congregation, Mrs Hannah Lockhart. Mrs Isobel Black was presented was also presented with a farewell gift on behalf of the congregation by Claire Isbister. Everyone enjoyed reminiscing and wished the departing couple every success in the future. This Sunday at 10.30 am Rev Andrew Black preaches his final sermon at Beith High Church and immediately thereafter the congregation are invited to a farewell social event in the church hall to mark his leaving Beith for Bourtreehill. Rev Black was inducted into the linked charge of Beith High and Trinity on 14 December 1998 when the officiating ministers were Rev Andrew Barrie, Rev Stephen J Smith and Rev David Broster. His introductory service was held in Trinity Church on Sunday 27 December 1998 when the Rev George Fiddes of Prestwick St Nicholas’ preached and introduced Rev Black to his new charge. Rev Andrew Black and his wife Isobel were keen members of Beith High Drama and trod the boards to great local acclaim in many plays and several memorable pantomimes.
AUSIE BOUND (Photo)
The McClune family of Beith’s Rowan Avenue jetted off from London last Sunday to begin a new life in Melbourne, Australia. Neil, Jackie and son Ross are looking forward to the challenges which lie ahead. Neil will work as a welder and Jackie may well look for a job once the family settle in. Ross is keen to join his new friends at school. A keen footballer and a key member of the Beith Town Boys Club, his first objective will be to join the local football team. The family send their kindest regards to all their family and friends in Beith for the many kind wishes and farewell gifts given to them. Although separated by many miles, they will keep in touch with family and friends by e-mail. They send a special thank you to Eleanor, Norman and George for all the help given in recent months. Everyone who knows this lovely family will join in wishing them every success as they head down under.
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 - 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. 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 regardes 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. Packs are already being widely distributed but if you have not received one please call 01505 504489 or contact Christine at the Cross Pharmacy.
BATTY
Have you ever been driven batty when trying to operate a ‘hole in the wall’ machine at the bank? Well, last Friday morning around 8 am several customers at Halifax Bank of Scotland branch in Beith’s Eglinton Street thought they were seeing things. The unsuspecting customers approached the auto-bank machine and were aghast to find that a real live bat had decided to use the machine for a nights sleep. After several customers decided that retreat was the wisest move, one enterprising customer managed to persuade the bat to find another roost and it flew off into morning skies above Beith. Could only happen in Beith, eh!
HOUSING OFFICE CLOSES
Locals in Beith who pay their Council rent via the NAC Housing Office in Beith’s Main Street are decidedly unhappy. This office is apparently scheduled to close in a few weeks because of 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 or payment via the post office. There were many murmurings of discontent at this enforced change, especially be older residents who seemed very happy with the former arrangements.
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (Photo)
The annual raffle held by the Beith branch, Ayrshire Cancer Support Group was drawn last week at a social function in Beith Community Centre. Local organizer, Billy Haining thanked everyone who donated prizes, sold them at various outlets and he was delighted to announce that the amazing sum of £2,193.33 was raised which is an increase on last years figure. The top prize of £200 which was anonymously donated was won by Mrs Adeline Ashwood of Beith. Winners of prizes are on display in various shops and the library. A donation of £100.80 in lieue of flowers was donated to the Beith Branch by the family of Mrs Hazel Shields. An ice cream box filled with coppers which amounted to £13.54 was anonymously handed in to Billy’s of Beith last week.
MOTOR CYCLISTS
The racing season is almost over for the dynamic motor cycling duo of Ewan McDonald and John Raeside of Beith. The flying Beithites have just two more events before the bikes are put away for winter. The penultimate race is a two day event on the East Fortune circuit on Saturday and Sunday, 15/16 September and the final meeting is scheduled for Knockhill on Sunday 5th October. Both men are still on the lookout for sponsorship. Anyone wish details of how to help should contact David Raeside on 07976 421804. The flying Beithites pass on their own thanks to everyone who has turned up to support them at a number of motor cycle races during the last few months. There will be a fund raising quiz event to be held in the Strand on Saturday 11 October at 2.00 pm. There will be prizes and a raffle. This will be followed by a karaoke/disco with entry costing £3. You can simply pay at the door. Everyone welcome. For further information contact David Raeside on 07976 421804.
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.
40TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Sandy and Isabel Shearer celebrated 40 years married life on 5th September with a party for family and friends. The happy Beithies were married by Rev. James Kerr in Beith High Church in 1963. They met at the Saturday night hop in the Glengarnock YMCA in 1958 when Isabel was 13 and Sandy 16 years of age. From then on they have been inseparable. They now have three married daughters, Elaine in Edinburgh, Gillian in Dumfries and Joanne in Kilbirnie. In addition they also have five lovely grandchildren, Sarah, Mhari, Scott and the two newest additions born this summer are Grant and Lauren. The caring couple also inherited three great sons-in law, although only one of them supports the same football team as Sandy, but as he says not everyone is perfect! They are both keen bowlers and members of Beith Bowling Club. Isabel and Sandy are really celebrating in style. They will shortly jet off to Australia for a month to celebrate this special anniversary in the sun. Everyone who knows Sandy and Isabel will join in wishing them many more happy years together.
GREENHILLS RURAL
Greenhills Rural kicks off for the new session with their meeting in Barrmill Community Centre on Wednesday, 17 September at 7.30 pm. The ladies will enjoy a talk by a member of staff about the range and variety of services provided by food giant, Tesco’s. New members and visitors will be made most welcome to the meeting.
GATESIDE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
All roads lead to Gateside! Gateside Horticultural Society hold their annual show in the Patrick Memorial Hall and Gateside Primary School tomorrow (Saturday). There will be the usual range and variety of delightful exhibits to view and the team room always does a roaring trade. Doors open at 2.00 pm for the public and the event continues until 5.00 pm. Anyone wishing a copy of the show schedule should contact the secretary, Billy Monahan on 01505-502158 as there is still time for green-fingered gardeners to enter.
DEGREE (Photo)
Kirsty Waddell of Beith’s Morrishill Drive has recently graduated with a 2:1 honours degree in Occupational Therapy and Pyschology from Glasgow Caledonian University. Well done, Kirsty.
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. This limited edition book has sold around 450 copies in two weeks 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.
RATS
Residents Against Tip Site (RATS) are holding a race night as their latest fund raising event. The event will be held in Beith Community Centre on Friday 19 September 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.
GET WELL
The effervescent Liz Dunn of B & A Travel, has been missing from the popular travel agent business for the last couple of weeks. Liz has been a stalwart of Beith Town Centre Initiative since its inception. A woman of boundless energy, she has been ill of late and everyone will join in wishing her a speedy return to health. Get well soon, Liz!
GARNOCK TOUR
Garnock Ruby Club Midis team have just returned from a highly successful Swedish tour. The keen Garnockians in the under 15s ran out winners by 39 – 0, and the under 16s were in great form winning 41 – 0. Strangely enough the Garnock lads were somewhat perplexed to discover their hosts name Stockholm Boys Club was a bit of a misnomer as several girls played very effectively in the under 16s team. Mind you, it has to be said that there were absolutely no complaints were the Garnockians. However, the under 15 lads were not quite so happy when they discovered that they had to play against a lad who was 6’ 4” tall, weighing at least 18 stones and sprouting a Santa Claus style beard. After these initial surprises and shocks, both groups got down to playing good rugby and the Garnock lads were well deserved winners, scoring several tries in the process. The Swedes showed their generous hospitality and presented the visitors with various gifts. The Garnock lads are now even able to boast their very own moose wearing a colourful Swedish jumper! The Stockholm lads and lassies hope to pay a return visit to Garnock in May 2004 as part of an international tour. As well as excelling on the field of play, the Garnockians enjoyed canoeing, go-karting and sight seeing. However, it’s now back to training, training, training! Garnock Rugby Club are holding a family open day on Sunday 14 September between 12 noon and 4.00 pm at Lochshore. They are keen to recruit new members and anyone aged 8 years upwards will be warmly welcomed. Visitors may even get the chance to see the famous Swedish Moose! Last weekend Garnock Primary 7 team were beaten 5 – 4 by Bishopton. The S1/2 side also suffered defeat by 32 – 4 at the hands of Kilmarnock and finishing off an unhappy weekend of defeats were the under 17 side who went down 26 – 19 against Hillhead.
INFORMATION DAYS
The community development team from
social services and communities linking are hosting a serious of local
information session in the three towns of the Garnock Valley. The aim of these
events is to bring together agencies, voluntary and statutory, who are either
based or offer an outreach service to local communities. The agencies are varied
and include disability, health, community involvement, group funding, drugs and
citizen advice. Free aromatherapy demonstrations are being provided and
refreshments are free. Come along and see what’s on offer in your community. For
further information contact Liz Nickerson on 01294 46 1056. The Beith event will
be held in Beith Community Centre on Tuesday 16 September from 2.00 pm – 4.00
pm. Everyone will be made very welcome and there will be lots of useful
information available on the day.
GATESIDE WRI
Many congratulations to Gateside W.R.I.'s Handcraft Team on being awarded a commended place in the Vaughan Nash Team Competition at the National Conference Exhibition held in September in Edinburgh. 38 teams from all over Scotland took part, so this is quite an achievement. A team from Gateside Rural also won the Jean Gilbert Trophy at Dalry Flower Show on Saturday 30th September, coming first in the foursome competition for baking and handcrafts. Well done, ladies
COMMUNITY COUNCIL
At the recent meeting of Beith and District Community Council the local crime update was given by Constable Jim Dougall. He advised that break-ins to houses was prevalent in June with twelve cases being reported. This continued into July with ten houses violated and a further five attempted break-ins. Constable Dougall emphasised that in the main it was houses that were not alarmed which proved to be the most vulnerable and he encouraged householders to consider installing reliable alarm systems. He emphasised that it was important that local people be aware of any suspicious occurrences in and around their own homes and localities and alert the police at an early stage. He also reported that during July and August eight drugs cases were reported to the Fiscal; thirty traffic related offences; seven assaults which resulted in five charges as well as a number of arrests for breach of the peace. A number of concerns were raised with the police by members of the council including parking in Glebe Road and Glebe Court during key arrival and departure times from school and nursery. Illegal parking at the Strand and Eglinton Street. Speeding vehicles, almost exclusively driven by young men, in Eglinton Street, Dalry Road and Roebank Road. The police noted these concerns for attention by officers on patrol. It was confirmed that there would eventually be a speed camera located on Dalry Road with a speed sensor in Eglinton Street. The issue of traffic calming was also raised. It was mentioned that the positive benefits of the scheme in Kilbirnie Main Street could be applied to good advantage in the main thoroughfares in Beith, albeit this was a matter for North Ayrhire Council Roads Department.
SCOUTS
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.
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.
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!
GATESIDE
Gateside Millennium Committee are holding a topical night on Feng Shui in the Patrick Memorial Hall, Gateside, on Thursday, 18 September beginning at 7.30 pm. Tickets are £2.50 which includes tea and scones. So, if you want to know all about Feng Shui, why not drop in and all will be revealed. All funds raised will be donated to Marie Curie Cancer Care. For further information or tickets contact 015605-504985.
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.
BEITH LADY BOWLERS
The ladies wappenschaw was held on the Beith green last Wednesday when there was a good turnout of ladies who enjoyed the competition in excellent weather conditions. The competition was won by a triples skipped by Ann Johnstone, lead Nan Frew and Second Margaret Irvine. The prizes were donated by Noreen Pinkerton.
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 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
GATESIDE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
Gateside Horticultural Society hold their annual show in the Patrick Memorial Hall and Primary School on Saturday 13 September. There will be the usual range and variety of delightful exhibits to view and the team room always does a roaring trade. Doors open at 2.00 pm for the public. Anyone wishing a copy of the show schedule should contact the secretary, Billy Monahan on 01505-502158 as there is still time for green-fingered gardeners to enter.
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.
1st BEITH BB
Parents and boys are asked to note that meeting of 1st Beith BBs for
the winter session
have now began and the meeting times as follows. Anchor Boys 6.00pm; Junior
Section 7.00pm and Company Section 8.00pm. Anchor Boys should be in primary 2 or
3, Junior Section members should be in primary 4, 5 or 6 and Company Section
members in primary 7 or above. The officers look forward to welcoming members
old and new for the coming session. The BBs are always on the lookout for
leaders both new and those wishing to return to give service back to the BBs.
Anyone who might be interested is asked to drop in for an initial chat with
leaders.
RAINBOWS
The Wednesday Rainbows resumed their meetings in Beith High Church Hall on Wednesday, 3 September from 5.15 pm – 6.30 pm. A few spaces are still available for girls aged 5 – 7 years. Contact Elaine Fisher on 01505-503425
CAMERA CLUB
The Beith Camera Club is about to emerge from its long
summer slumber. The happy snappers will begin their new season of weekly
meetings on Thursday 11th September at
7.30pm in the Lounge at the Community Centre? The meetings provide an
opportunity to learn more about photography, whether traditional film-based or
digital, in an informal atmosphere. Newcomers are welcome to come along or to
contact the club secretary Alma McLuskie on 01505 842196.
BOWLING
18 club stalwarts took part in Friday nights mixed wapinschaw on the 29th August. After 12 ends the triples skipped by Alan McFarlane, Doris Ann Taylor second and Margaret Irvine lead won the sweep and five valuable league points. Beith BC had its finals day on Saturday 30th August, sponsored for the first time by Eric Monk. In the finals of the Balfour Trophy for novelist bowlers was played on rink five and won by Raymond Lewis who narrowly defeated Alan McFarlane. The Ex- Presidents on rink four was won by Jimmy Chesney against John Simpson. The Presidents prize on rink three was won by George T Wilson against Duncan Meldrum. On rink one the Nominated Pairs was won by VP Brian Monk (skip) and Robert McDonald against Alistair Danks (skip) and Graham Young. On rink two this years Club Championship was won for the third time by Jim McFadzean against Lenny Whiteman. After the buffet for the winners and officials, President Charlie Fairns thanked the ladies for serving the meal, the markers, complemented gill for serving the drinks behind the bar, and a very special thanks to Eric Monk for sponsoring the Finals day. On Sunday the 31st August President Charlie Fairns welcomed all the players to the semi finals & final of the Marbill Trophy Triples Competition sponsored by Marbill Coaches, High Mains Garage, Mains Road Beith. On behalf of Marbill Coaches this years prizes where presented by Hugh and Mary McMeechan to Beaten semi finalist, Billy Mack (skip), Willie Reilly, and Gordon Allan Ardeer Recreation BC, Murdie Brown (skip) Derek Logue Snr, and Blair Michie, runners up VP Brian Monk (skip) Duncan Meldrum and Willie Smith, and this years winners Charlie Thomson (skip) Jimmy Chesney and John Simpson. The Day was rounded of by President Charlie Fairns thanking all those concerned in making the day such a success, Marbill Coaches, VP Brian Monk for organising the competition, Sandra and Avril Smith for the catering arrangements, Robert MacDougall for arranging the bottles of whisky from the Famous Grouse, Gill for serving cool drinks in the sunshine.
The Scottish Bowling Association Schools Project kicks off again on Monday 8th September after school from 3.00pm to 4.00pm, and will be followed up by club coaching on Friday 12th September after school. Coach John Simpson will contact all the youngster regarding the Friday after school coaching in due course.
YOUNG FARMERS
Beith & District Young Farmers’ Club are holding their first meeting of the winter syllabus on Monday 15 September at the Patrick Memorial Hall, Gateside at 7.30pm. This meeting will take the form of a quiz night. Young Farmers’ has a lot to offer young people and they are always keen to encourage people to come along and try new things and meet new people. If you are between 14 and 26 why not give it a try, and you don’t need to be a farmer to be a young farmer! For more information please contact Julie on 01294 832262, Gareth on 01294 832249 or email beithyfc@hotmail.com.
BBs
Meetings of 1st Beith BBs have now resumed for the winter. The
Anchor boys have seven members, and spent there evening in games and drawing.
The Junior Section have nine members, and were involved with a quiz, team games
and football, while the company section had two members. For previous members
who have not returned yet the meetings are at the usual times, Anchor Boys 6.00
pm, Junior Section 7.00 pm and
Company Section 8.00 pm on Friday. For any new members, Anchor Boys should be
in
Primary 2 or 3, Junior Section in Primary 4, 5 or 6, and Company Section Primary
7 or above.
ANGLING
There has been an increase in the number of fish recorded this week by the
alluring anglers of the Beith St. Inan’s Club. One fortunate member took a
lovely rainbow trout weighing 4 1/2 lb last week. Work is continuing on the
hut, after a break in the summer, concentrating on the outside. Members are
reminded that the last competition of the year, the Jamieson Cup, will be fished
on Sunday 14th , from 10am until 4pm.
FREE GARDENERS
Archie Chalmers of Stewarton is researching the history of the Lodges 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 Archie Chalmers.
CAR BOOT
Barrmill Community Association held a successful car boot sale in the village last Saturday. This resulted in the association coffers benefiting by around £300. Jean Gilbert, chairperson, passes on her thanks to all who assisted in making the event such a success.
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. 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; 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. 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 imperative 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.
COMMUNITY COUNCIL
The meeting of Beith and District Community Council was held in Beith Primary School on 28 August.
MARATHON
The big day is getting near as Nikla Jacobson of Beith begins her last few days of training for the Glasgow half marathon, fondly known as the Great Scottish Run, to be held this Sunday (7 September). Nikla has worked hard pounding the highways and byways of Beith as she builds up her daily mileage and improves her fitness and stamina for the big day. Anyone wishing to sponsor Nikla can do so by using sponsor sheets either in Cross Pharmacy or Arabica Café or by phoning committee member Audrey on 506320 or Joyce on 503459. All funds raised will be donated to Beith Playpark Action Group (BPAG) and help them on their final push towards achieving sufficient funds to make their dream come true and provide a fine playpark for Beith youngsters. Everyone will be running with Nikla, in spirit at least, and will no doubt join in shouting, run Nikla run!
GUIDES
3rd Beith Guides resume tonight (Friday) at 7.30 pm in Beith High Church Hall.
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.
SAFETY FORUM
The Garnock Valley Community Safety Forum has published its second newsletter and this is available in local libraries and community centres. The next meeting of the Forum will be held in Bridgend Community Centre in Kilbirnine, on Thursday 11th September. A talk with be presented by Mary Couttie, from North Ayrshire Rape Crisis Centre on the services offered to residents of North Ayrshire with relation to Rape Crisis and Survivors of Sexual Assault or abuse. All members of the public are welcome to attend the meeting and this will take place at 7.30 followed by the talk at 8pm. The Forum is a small community group and would value more community involvement. If you have one hour per month you can spare, and are interested in trying to improve community safety in your area, please attend Forum meetings. Young people are encouraged to come along and give their views on what could improve their safety in the community and how we can help. Remember, safety issues affects all of us.
FLOWER FESTIVAL
Diary date! Kilbirnie Auld Kirk are holding a Festival of Flowers in the church from 11 – 13 September from 11.00 am until 8.00 pm. Donation programmes are £3. This event marks the silver jubilee celebrations of the Kirk. Such events are well worth a visit as the array of floral decorations can be stunning in the reflective atmosphere of a church.
ABSEIL
Fancy leaping from a high roof this Sunday? Well, now you have a chance to make your dream come true. A sponsored abseil will take place at Crosshouse Hospital on Sunday 14 September when the enterprising volunteer fund raisers will have the opportunity of abseiling 100 feet from the roof of the hospital. Entry fee is £10 and participants are expected to raise at least £100 in sponsorship. All funds raised will help to beat leukaemia and other similar related disorders. For further information and forms telephone 01294-601233.
The following information was recorded in the town’s newspaper of 26 August 1916.
