Year 8 No 2 October 1984
Thursday, 13th September was a combination of AGM and club night. Minutes wer eread by the Secretary and passed. Balance Sheets presented to all present. Treasurer gave a financial report which reflected the success this club proves to be. Call for election of Committee resulted in Chairman Jack Gray, Secretary Mary Gray, Treasurer Charlie Todd and the rest of the Committee returned en bloc.
The evening then proved a super night. Making their debut as guest artistes three young, very talented players from the Penicuik area, Craig McCallum SDB. Craig on lead accordion, Owen Fielding second accordion, Marie Fielding on fiddle. These three all in their very early teens called upon the services of Neil Barron, piano, and Max Ketchin, drums.
This band presented themselves as a band should, dressed for the occasion, but never heed the dress, their performance was a super example of truly dedicated musicians, who will go far in the world of music and we in Lesmahagow are pleased to say we gave them their first spot. The youth of today are the stars of tomorrow.
Sausage rolls and tea were served at half time as this is the usual procedure. The raffle was drawn and the many prizes distributed.
Yes we have sung the praises of the young bandand we are grateful for the supporting players who came along to make this a super night. Like one of Scotland’s wonder girls from Airdrie, Jennifer Forrest (another mere youngster). Our two regulars John Houston and Annie Robertson on the fiddles, our button box players Adam Reid, Bob Logan and Bob Berry.
In the junior element we had Carol Wood, Scott McInnes, Liam Young, Alan Gardiner, who has shown a great improvement, a grand wee player, Douglas Callan, Davy Coke and the many from Biggar (Tick Tock) John Anderson. From the East Kilbride Club, well known in club-land, Hugh Gebbie, with his own style.
The drums were shared by Charlie Todd, Willie Wilson and the Chairman Jack Gray.
Peter Wood and Graeme Johnston were there in attendance only, both with plasters on broken joints in their hands. We wish them a quick recovery.
Again we say thanks to everybody and haste ye back.
Jack Gray (Chairman)
Year 8 No 3 November 1984
Our Club met on 11th October and another super night was had. The evening kicked off with chairman Jack Gray taking the stage, playing a selection of slow pipe marches, a selection of quicksteps then some Latin American, with Bruce Shaw on the drums. Yes, Bruce is back after his summer with Coalburn IOR Pipe Band where as leading drummer they have played their way to great success in the many contests throughout the summer. The band being so good they are upgraded to Grade 3 where we wish them every success.
The rest of the supporting cast were again in top form, like Adam Reid, Bob Logan and Bob Berry our button box players, also our regular fiddlers John Houston and Anne Robertson. The younger element were there, like Scott McInnes, Alan Gardiner and Kay Gardiner (no, not related but from the same farming background), young farmer Douglas Callan, Davy Coke, semi retired from farming. Another Callan, Nelson, no not connected to Douglas and talented young lass Ailsa Walkinshaw, plus Bob Paterson played well. Nice to see Peter Wood and Graeme Johnston back playing after damaged hands.
Dorothy Lawson was back tinkling the piano ivories again after a bit of trouble with her hands, also Hugh Gebbie. Hugh as well as playing his accordion took his turn on the drums, as did the Club Treasurer Charlie Todd. Charlie, being a grand box player, is becoming quite expert on the drums.
As usual a cup of tea was on sale at half time and of course everyone received their sausage roll.
Then to our guest artistes, the Ian McCallum SDB, with line-up lead Ian McCallum, Jack Delaney second box, Anne Rutherford piano, John Delaney string bass, Graham Burns fiddle and Gordon Young drums.
This band proved a great success and in the first spot their varied programme met with a big response. At half time the raffle was drawn.
As can be seen in the diary we have a change in December. Walter Perrie asked to be relieved that night, so taking his place will be the Iain Peterson Trio, and again we say ‘haste ye back’ Thursday, 13th December.
Jack Gray
Year 8 No 4 December 1984
Thursday, 8th November, again proved a great night at our Club. The heavy rain didn’t deter a large turnout of spectators and players, and again our Chairman, Big Jack, had to keep the ball rolling to give everyone a chance. Iain Henderson started the programme off with his fiddle and nice to see another fiddler back again, Justine Tennant. Justine may have trouble with leg movement but not finger movement.
Button box players for the night were Adam Reid and bob Logan. Scott McInnes, one of the younger players, backed by Ian Wilson on keyboard and Bruce Shaw on drums, gave the first rendition at our Club of the new polka written by Iain Peterson ‘The Patchwork Polka’.
The other young local players were Liam Young, Carol Wood, Peter Wood and Graeme Johnston. Each of these young players gave us an expert performance. Other regulars were Davie Coke and Allan Smith, another SDB leader who strengthened the players by playing both lead and second box.
The chairman extended a welcome to Norrie and Sheila Williams from East Kilbride. Norrie’s sweet style of playing was greatly appreciated. A warm welcome was then extended to Walter Perrie who dropped in and brought with him from the same area Gregor Lowrie, a super young player who played with astonishing ease and perfection. Norrie Williams also drew the raffle tickets for the many prizes and we, the Club, are very grateful for those donated.
Our drummers for the evening were our regular Bruce Shaw, with Charlie Todd and Willie Simpson from Crossford. Our other two regular fiddlers Anne Robertson and John Houston took a night off (as they are well entitled to).
Tea and sausage rolls were served at half time. Then to our guest artistes, the Tommy Pringle SDB. Tommy Pringle on lead accordion, Gwen Renton on second accordion, Ian Wilson on piano and George Darling on drums, a band who performed superbly, a well put-together programme, enjoyed by all present. Another super night, but a remark made by one of the guest artistes ‘it’s a wonder you book artistes with the quality of your own players who attend the Club’ that was Thursday night, the 8th.
Then we were back in the same hall on the 9th for our dance, dancing to John Laidlaw’s SDB and boy was this some night - as in the past it was a sell-out. Supper was supplied by Matt and Sal Sneddon, the raffle was drawn at half time with some stupendous prizes. Alex McInnes, a local supporter, gave us three hearty songs at half time, accompanied by Big Jack on Ian Graham’s accordion.
One of the finest night’s we’ve had for a long time, so good our next dance is on 5th April, 1985 and already tickets have been booked.
Our January guest artistes will be Allan Smith SDB.
Again we say ‘haste ye back’.
Jack Gray (Chairman)
Year 8 No 5 January 1985
Thursday, 13th December, unlucky for some but not for Lesmahagow A&F Club.
Our last night for 1984 was a classic and for a change our Treasurer, Charlie Todd, donned his box and accompanied by our Club drummer, ever-present Bruce Shaw, a grand opening stint was our treat.
In our area, if you want a sheet of music, Charlie’s the man to see. As well as playing his accordion, Charlie is becoming a very competent drummer.
One of our youngest and the first time ever on stage – a Lesmahagow lass, around the 9-year-old mark, and only playing the accordion about seven months – Michelle Aitken. We are sure this will not be her last time.
Again with us was the ever popular Justine Tennant (aye, with even in attendance, her roadie Wullie) Justine admitted to our Chairman the pleasure she had in a dream recently. (No Justine I won’t disclose it on paper).
Next we had from Strathaven, playing that bonnie Classique Douglas Callan. On this evening, Anne Robertson was tucking into a Christmas dinner elsewhere, but still John Houston brought his fiddle along with Allan Smith on accordion and Bruce on drums gave a good performance.
Wee Adam Reid again performed with his five-row. From Larkhall came great supporters of the clubland – the two Bobs, Bob Paterson (piano accordion) and Bob Berry (three-row button box) accompanied by young Bobby Paterson on synthesizer. They are a really good turn and always welcome at our Club.
Davie Coke always turns up and he picks his own backing from Club players and always chooses someone different. Anyone can see that Davie enjoys his playing.
Another fiddler supreme, someone who brings out the Irish in us all – from Bellshill area, Jim Devlin, and a 12-year-old now beginning to show his mettle in a big was, Scott McInnes from Lesmahagow.
Following them we had another top player and very modest lad at that, from Calderbank, Gordon Thomson. Gordon, as we know, plays a lot of traditional pipe marches like ‘Heilan Laddie’, ‘Invercauld’, ‘Atholl Highlanders’ etc in a very steady style and so good to listen to.
Then came Allan Smith from Kirkfieldbank, having his first broadcast behind him with his band, and a trio to Dubai, and more recently he has moved into his new house built in the village where we in the Club wish him and Christine and Laura many, many years of happiness.
The interval arrived and with it tea and sausage rolls followed by the raffle. Thanks again to the kind people for donating the raffles, to Annie for selling the tickets, to the bar staff and the tea ladies, without whom we could not survive and your good selves for attending.
Yes, I mentioned him earlier, always in attendance, our drummer Bruce Shaw’s style of drumming helps the players on stage and is a great asset to out club. When a young player takes the stage with Bruce for the first time he wills their playing, steadies them and brings out the best, not only in young players but in all of us.
On to our guest artistes – on fiddle Iain Peterson, on keyboard Alf McConnachie and accordion Donald Burns. Their style of playing proved them worthy guest artistes. They played closely as a band. Iain’s many compositions during his programme took on a nice sound when played so feelingly by the composer himself. They were thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. Thanks Iain.
Thanks also for your letter after that night. But we extend the same hospitality to everyone attending our Club. Thanks also for your kind remarks on Allan Smith and Gordon Thomson. Yes, they are grand players and as you say, Scott McInnes is a very promising young player. Thanks again.
On 14th February we will have Colin Finlayson and his SDB who we are sure will prove another great attraction.
We extend this invitation to any visitors – sample our Club, you will enjoy it.
Our dance date has now been changed to Saturday, 30th March. This will be a Supper Dance in the Jubilee Hall. Tickets, same price, £2.50 each, and again in attendance the ever-popular John Laidlaw Trio. Admission by ticket only. The last three have been sell-outs. Don’t miss it. Again we say haste ye back.
Jack Gray (Chairman)
Thursday, 10th January, again proved one of the best nights that Lesmahagow A&F Club have had for a long time.
Our guest artistes were the very talented Allan Smith SDB. Allan on lead accordion had the ever-popular Jimmy Yeaman on fiddle for a first time at our Club. We enjoyed Jimmy’s patter as well as his playing. On piano was Dorothy Lawson, second accordion Ian Graham and on drums Billy Goodfellow.
This band gave us super entertainment and at times individuals in the band gave backing for other players without hesitation when asked.
The Club again had a host of players which we, as a Committee, accept as a tribute to the way we run the Club.
Playing for the first time ever on stage, the Secretary’s daughter Pamela Gray. After only playing the box for six to seven weeks her rendering of ‘On Top of Old Smokey’ and ‘Scotland the Brave’ was played in a very confident manner. But to be fair she did start the accordion about two years ago, but after a month gave it up. She practices nearly two hours every night of the week. The chairman of the Club played a new Borsini courtesy of Robert Rolston of Shotts.
They were followed by four fiddlers. Anne Robertson, John Houston, Justine Tennant and Iain Henderson making a first time visit to our club. Sandy Forrest from Roberton and local talent Liam Young and Scott McInnes and how these youngsters are coming on.
Next on stage were button box players Bob Logan and Bob Berry (three row) and always welcome on his two-row Borsini Ronnie Copeland. Young Alan Gardiner, another super young player, took the stage with a full band, followed by Douglas Callan from Strathaven. Then Neilson Callan from Wisaw and next some high speed playing was demonstrated by Graeme Johnston who is always welcome at the Club. From Biggar we had John Anderson. Johnston brought along Keith Dickson, also a first timer at our Club.
Let us at this stage say we wish Justine’s roadie Willie a quick and successful recovery from his hip operation.
Our regular drummer Bruce Shaw was on the stage as usual. Joe Taylor and Charlie Todd shared his stool for the night. Also in the audience, but could not be coaxed on stage, was John Simpson from Forth. John is the regular drummer with the Thistle Dance Band under the leadership of 5 row accordionist Alex Burnside.
Joe Taylor is at present drumming with the Caledonian SDB. This band is led by accordionist Keith Dickson. Another first-timer at our Club and one who will always be welcome was Morag McAskill on keyboard.
We would like to offer apologies to Arthur McKeown and his good lady, but it was only when they were leaving did the Chairman realise who they were. Arthur, from the Milngavie club, will be welcome at any time.
Tea and a super sausage roll were served at the interval and thanks to everyone who donated raffles.
The night finished around midnight with a super stramash led by the band. We all headed home with music in our ears and Jimmy Yeaman with his raffle prize of enough tatties to keep the chip pan going for a couple of days.
Was that the night over? Not at all, about 14 to 16 people ended up at Allan Smith’s new house. A dram was dished up and we toasted Allan and Christine’s new house. Mother and father, Jock and Dorothy, assisted and tea and sandwiches were also served while baby Laura slept through it all upstairs and this ended an excellent night.
In March we have the Jack Delaney SDB.
Jack Gray (Chairman)
Year 8 No 7 March 1985
Thursday, 14th February, yes St Valentine’s Day and at Lesmahagow A&F Club it was a super night. But, alas! We nearly suffered a tragedy. Visiting our Club for the first time from Drymen, with his Shand Morino, was Duncan McCallum. Unfortunately, his name didn’t go on the players sheet. But for our guest artiste telling me, he could have been missed out. This would have been sacrilege because he must be one of the best exponents of the button-box and will always be welcome at our Club.
To our guest artistes - a super four-piece band led by Colin Finlayson, with Rikki Franci, Neil McMillan and Gus Millar. A compact band, playing superb selection in a true traditional style.
But what about our own support? Twenty-two accordionists and fiddlers came along to join in. The younger element – Pamela Gray, Michelle Aitken, Liam Young, Carol Wodd, Scott McInnes. Fiddlers Iain Henderson, John Houston, Anne Robertson. We missed Justine Tennant, but we know she’ll be back as soon as Willie, her ever-attendant roadie, gets his bionic joints working. Meantime, pleasant dreams Justine.
Other players on stage were Adam Reid, Bob Berry, Peter Wood, Davie Coke. Ah! I see we had Jimmy Divers back, Nelson Callan, our Treasurer Charlie Todd and from West Linton Dorothy Lawson, Ian Graham, Bruce Shaw, our regular drummer and Joe Taylor. From Ayrshire we had Ronnie Coupland, from Larkhall we had Geordie Cross, who teamed up with Bob Logan.
This was a night of fun. Our Chairman juggled things about, producing trios, quartets and quintets to great effect.
I have deliberately left this name until now – from East Kilbride, pianist, accordionist Grant Crawford, who certainly gave his girlfriend a lovely Valantine. Grant and Heather became engaged today. We congratulate them and wish them all the best for the future.
On this night, Mrs Gray and Mrs Muir, our tea women, got a rest, and why not, they always miss the guest artistes’ first spot as they are preparing tea which is enjoyed at half-time. Mrs Wilson and Elsie took over this chore for a turn. They also provided beautiful buttered pancakes, selling them at the interval. Alas! They only lasted a few minutes until they were sold out.
After distribution of the sausage rolls and raffle tickets drawn, the night went with a swing until near the midnight hour.
Our dance on 30th March with John Laidlaw’s Band is now a sell-out. Our guest artiste for Thursday, 11th April – well known in his field – Wee Joe’s quartet. Yes, this will be different but it will be fun and we invite everyone to come and hear. Four superb musicians, men who know their work from A to Z. Joe is at present Manager of Electronic Accordions, Motherwell. Don’t miss it. If you do you will regret it, when you hear other people talk about it. Again we say, haste ye back.
PS Since our Club night we have learned of the passing of Mrs Logan, who along with Bob, her husband, were strong supporters of our Club.
Year 8 No 8 April 1985
On Thursday, 14th March, we were on the point of needing a balcony fitted into the hall. We had an absolute capacity crowd, but then again look who our guest artistes were, one of the finest characters in Scottish dance music circles, Jack Delaney, with the lovely Jacqueline Dick on second box (and at times taking the lead). Maybe Jacqueline was the star attraction. Then Alistair McGirr accompanying the haunting fiddle of Graeme Burns plus the sweetness of John Delaney’s bass playing all held together by the excellent drumming of Duncan Burns making up one of the finest five-piece Scottish dance bands on the circuit today.
It was midnight when we finished, but we’ll blame that on Jacqueline, who got lost, therefore our first guest artiste spot was late in starting, but no-one complained, with a supporting cast list of Pamela Gray, Michelle Aitken, Fiona Linton from Carluke, and another first time from Mauchline, a super young player Kenneth Cummings, Scott McInnes, Graeme Johnston, Alan Gardiner, Gordon Thomson. From through east Craig McCallum and Marie Fielding. Another regular from the Ayrshire stable Ronnie Coupland. Douglas Callan and one of the evergreens Davie Coke and Adam Reid. The other Callan, Nelson Callan from Wishaw and of course that young thing was there with her fiddle, Justine Tennant, John Houston and Anne Robertson with Jim Devlin making up the five fiddlers.
Peter Wood spent most of the night behind the keyboard. Thanks Peter for bringing along that keyboard. Peter’s a lad about 14 who, although being a good piper, started the accordion some four years ago. A pupil of mine who has worked himself to the limit in these four years and has become very confident, both on keyboard and accordion, and plays regularly with the Caledonian SDB.
The drums on the night were shared by our regular drummer, Bruce Shaw and Hugh Gebbie, Charlie Todd and Willie Wilson.
Our Club appreciate the strong and solid support we are receiving and there in the middle of the hall – two people who know what the accordion world is all about, Sheila and Norrie Williams. I trust Sheila this night helped to make up missing Musselburgh. Apologies Norrie and thanks for standing down on the night, and other accordion players Peter Wood, Charlie Todd and Hugh Gebbie.
Hold it! My wife has just reminded me of the super spot played on bass, keyboard and drums or should I say the rhythm section of Jack Delaney’s Band. This was certainly different. I believe it was called the Queen of Sheba. Again Annie Buchanan excelled herself selling the raffle tickets, as did everyone who donated prizes for the raffle. Thanks, Norrie Williams, for drawing the raffle.
Our Chairman, members and friends were pleased to welcome back to the fold two sheep we thought we had lost, the Brodie Twins, no not players but top-class supporters and as the night neared its end Allan Smith from Kirkfieldbank appeared in the hall, half the garage oil sticking to his fingers, being a mechanic, straight off the back shift at Trust Motors. Starving he managed to polish off some of the surplus sausage rolls but, alas, who was superman of the night, unbelievable fit, the oldest roadie in the business, Willie Tennant, Thanks Willie for your many fine complimentary remarks. To see you walking in unaided so soon after your operation makes many of us feel humble at our minor complaints.
Now to Saturday, 30th March, our Club Spring Dance in the Jubilee Hall, Lesmahagow. Attendance 160+. We ask why this is so popular, but we know why. When the John Laidlaw Trio is on stage everyone is guaranteed a superb night of non-stop dancing. So much so, tickets are already being booked for a dance in October, same venue and band.
Our May guest will be the well known Robert Black SDB. We would ask the same support for Robert as we had for Jack Delaney. Remember our Club meet throughout the summer, without guests artistes, June, July and August. Come and join us then and we say again ‘Haste ye back’.
Jack Gray (Chairman)
Thursday, 13th September was a combination of AGM and club night. Minutes wer eread by the Secretary and passed. Balance Sheets presented to all present. Treasurer gave a financial report which reflected the success this club proves to be. Call for election of Committee resulted in Chairman Jack Gray, Secretary Mary Gray, Treasurer Charlie Todd and the rest of the Committee returned en bloc.
The evening then proved a super night. Making their debut as guest artistes three young, very talented players from the Penicuik area, Craig McCallum SDB. Craig on lead accordion, Owen Fielding second accordion, Marie Fielding on fiddle. These three all in their very early teens called upon the services of Neil Barron, piano, and Max Ketchin, drums.
This band presented themselves as a band should, dressed for the occasion, but never heed the dress, their performance was a super example of truly dedicated musicians, who will go far in the world of music and we in Lesmahagow are pleased to say we gave them their first spot. The youth of today are the stars of tomorrow.
Sausage rolls and tea were served at half time as this is the usual procedure. The raffle was drawn and the many prizes distributed.
Yes we have sung the praises of the young bandand we are grateful for the supporting players who came along to make this a super night. Like one of Scotland’s wonder girls from Airdrie, Jennifer Forrest (another mere youngster). Our two regulars John Houston and Annie Robertson on the fiddles, our button box players Adam Reid, Bob Logan and Bob Berry.
In the junior element we had Carol Wood, Scott McInnes, Liam Young, Alan Gardiner, who has shown a great improvement, a grand wee player, Douglas Callan, Davy Coke and the many from Biggar (Tick Tock) John Anderson. From the East Kilbride Club, well known in club-land, Hugh Gebbie, with his own style.
The drums were shared by Charlie Todd, Willie Wilson and the Chairman Jack Gray.
Peter Wood and Graeme Johnston were there in attendance only, both with plasters on broken joints in their hands. We wish them a quick recovery.
Again we say thanks to everybody and haste ye back.
Jack Gray (Chairman)
Year 8 No 3 November 1984
Our Club met on 11th October and another super night was had. The evening kicked off with chairman Jack Gray taking the stage, playing a selection of slow pipe marches, a selection of quicksteps then some Latin American, with Bruce Shaw on the drums. Yes, Bruce is back after his summer with Coalburn IOR Pipe Band where as leading drummer they have played their way to great success in the many contests throughout the summer. The band being so good they are upgraded to Grade 3 where we wish them every success.
The rest of the supporting cast were again in top form, like Adam Reid, Bob Logan and Bob Berry our button box players, also our regular fiddlers John Houston and Anne Robertson. The younger element were there, like Scott McInnes, Alan Gardiner and Kay Gardiner (no, not related but from the same farming background), young farmer Douglas Callan, Davy Coke, semi retired from farming. Another Callan, Nelson, no not connected to Douglas and talented young lass Ailsa Walkinshaw, plus Bob Paterson played well. Nice to see Peter Wood and Graeme Johnston back playing after damaged hands.
Dorothy Lawson was back tinkling the piano ivories again after a bit of trouble with her hands, also Hugh Gebbie. Hugh as well as playing his accordion took his turn on the drums, as did the Club Treasurer Charlie Todd. Charlie, being a grand box player, is becoming quite expert on the drums.
As usual a cup of tea was on sale at half time and of course everyone received their sausage roll.
Then to our guest artistes, the Ian McCallum SDB, with line-up lead Ian McCallum, Jack Delaney second box, Anne Rutherford piano, John Delaney string bass, Graham Burns fiddle and Gordon Young drums.
This band proved a great success and in the first spot their varied programme met with a big response. At half time the raffle was drawn.
As can be seen in the diary we have a change in December. Walter Perrie asked to be relieved that night, so taking his place will be the Iain Peterson Trio, and again we say ‘haste ye back’ Thursday, 13th December.
Jack Gray
Year 8 No 4 December 1984
Thursday, 8th November, again proved a great night at our Club. The heavy rain didn’t deter a large turnout of spectators and players, and again our Chairman, Big Jack, had to keep the ball rolling to give everyone a chance. Iain Henderson started the programme off with his fiddle and nice to see another fiddler back again, Justine Tennant. Justine may have trouble with leg movement but not finger movement.
Button box players for the night were Adam Reid and bob Logan. Scott McInnes, one of the younger players, backed by Ian Wilson on keyboard and Bruce Shaw on drums, gave the first rendition at our Club of the new polka written by Iain Peterson ‘The Patchwork Polka’.
The other young local players were Liam Young, Carol Wood, Peter Wood and Graeme Johnston. Each of these young players gave us an expert performance. Other regulars were Davie Coke and Allan Smith, another SDB leader who strengthened the players by playing both lead and second box.
The chairman extended a welcome to Norrie and Sheila Williams from East Kilbride. Norrie’s sweet style of playing was greatly appreciated. A warm welcome was then extended to Walter Perrie who dropped in and brought with him from the same area Gregor Lowrie, a super young player who played with astonishing ease and perfection. Norrie Williams also drew the raffle tickets for the many prizes and we, the Club, are very grateful for those donated.
Our drummers for the evening were our regular Bruce Shaw, with Charlie Todd and Willie Simpson from Crossford. Our other two regular fiddlers Anne Robertson and John Houston took a night off (as they are well entitled to).
Tea and sausage rolls were served at half time. Then to our guest artistes, the Tommy Pringle SDB. Tommy Pringle on lead accordion, Gwen Renton on second accordion, Ian Wilson on piano and George Darling on drums, a band who performed superbly, a well put-together programme, enjoyed by all present. Another super night, but a remark made by one of the guest artistes ‘it’s a wonder you book artistes with the quality of your own players who attend the Club’ that was Thursday night, the 8th.
Then we were back in the same hall on the 9th for our dance, dancing to John Laidlaw’s SDB and boy was this some night - as in the past it was a sell-out. Supper was supplied by Matt and Sal Sneddon, the raffle was drawn at half time with some stupendous prizes. Alex McInnes, a local supporter, gave us three hearty songs at half time, accompanied by Big Jack on Ian Graham’s accordion.
One of the finest night’s we’ve had for a long time, so good our next dance is on 5th April, 1985 and already tickets have been booked.
Our January guest artistes will be Allan Smith SDB.
Again we say ‘haste ye back’.
Jack Gray (Chairman)
Year 8 No 5 January 1985
Thursday, 13th December, unlucky for some but not for Lesmahagow A&F Club.
Our last night for 1984 was a classic and for a change our Treasurer, Charlie Todd, donned his box and accompanied by our Club drummer, ever-present Bruce Shaw, a grand opening stint was our treat.
In our area, if you want a sheet of music, Charlie’s the man to see. As well as playing his accordion, Charlie is becoming a very competent drummer.
One of our youngest and the first time ever on stage – a Lesmahagow lass, around the 9-year-old mark, and only playing the accordion about seven months – Michelle Aitken. We are sure this will not be her last time.
Again with us was the ever popular Justine Tennant (aye, with even in attendance, her roadie Wullie) Justine admitted to our Chairman the pleasure she had in a dream recently. (No Justine I won’t disclose it on paper).
Next we had from Strathaven, playing that bonnie Classique Douglas Callan. On this evening, Anne Robertson was tucking into a Christmas dinner elsewhere, but still John Houston brought his fiddle along with Allan Smith on accordion and Bruce on drums gave a good performance.
Wee Adam Reid again performed with his five-row. From Larkhall came great supporters of the clubland – the two Bobs, Bob Paterson (piano accordion) and Bob Berry (three-row button box) accompanied by young Bobby Paterson on synthesizer. They are a really good turn and always welcome at our Club.
Davie Coke always turns up and he picks his own backing from Club players and always chooses someone different. Anyone can see that Davie enjoys his playing.
Another fiddler supreme, someone who brings out the Irish in us all – from Bellshill area, Jim Devlin, and a 12-year-old now beginning to show his mettle in a big was, Scott McInnes from Lesmahagow.
Following them we had another top player and very modest lad at that, from Calderbank, Gordon Thomson. Gordon, as we know, plays a lot of traditional pipe marches like ‘Heilan Laddie’, ‘Invercauld’, ‘Atholl Highlanders’ etc in a very steady style and so good to listen to.
Then came Allan Smith from Kirkfieldbank, having his first broadcast behind him with his band, and a trio to Dubai, and more recently he has moved into his new house built in the village where we in the Club wish him and Christine and Laura many, many years of happiness.
The interval arrived and with it tea and sausage rolls followed by the raffle. Thanks again to the kind people for donating the raffles, to Annie for selling the tickets, to the bar staff and the tea ladies, without whom we could not survive and your good selves for attending.
Yes, I mentioned him earlier, always in attendance, our drummer Bruce Shaw’s style of drumming helps the players on stage and is a great asset to out club. When a young player takes the stage with Bruce for the first time he wills their playing, steadies them and brings out the best, not only in young players but in all of us.
On to our guest artistes – on fiddle Iain Peterson, on keyboard Alf McConnachie and accordion Donald Burns. Their style of playing proved them worthy guest artistes. They played closely as a band. Iain’s many compositions during his programme took on a nice sound when played so feelingly by the composer himself. They were thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. Thanks Iain.
Thanks also for your letter after that night. But we extend the same hospitality to everyone attending our Club. Thanks also for your kind remarks on Allan Smith and Gordon Thomson. Yes, they are grand players and as you say, Scott McInnes is a very promising young player. Thanks again.
On 14th February we will have Colin Finlayson and his SDB who we are sure will prove another great attraction.
We extend this invitation to any visitors – sample our Club, you will enjoy it.
Our dance date has now been changed to Saturday, 30th March. This will be a Supper Dance in the Jubilee Hall. Tickets, same price, £2.50 each, and again in attendance the ever-popular John Laidlaw Trio. Admission by ticket only. The last three have been sell-outs. Don’t miss it. Again we say haste ye back.
Jack Gray (Chairman)
Thursday, 10th January, again proved one of the best nights that Lesmahagow A&F Club have had for a long time.
Our guest artistes were the very talented Allan Smith SDB. Allan on lead accordion had the ever-popular Jimmy Yeaman on fiddle for a first time at our Club. We enjoyed Jimmy’s patter as well as his playing. On piano was Dorothy Lawson, second accordion Ian Graham and on drums Billy Goodfellow.
This band gave us super entertainment and at times individuals in the band gave backing for other players without hesitation when asked.
The Club again had a host of players which we, as a Committee, accept as a tribute to the way we run the Club.
Playing for the first time ever on stage, the Secretary’s daughter Pamela Gray. After only playing the box for six to seven weeks her rendering of ‘On Top of Old Smokey’ and ‘Scotland the Brave’ was played in a very confident manner. But to be fair she did start the accordion about two years ago, but after a month gave it up. She practices nearly two hours every night of the week. The chairman of the Club played a new Borsini courtesy of Robert Rolston of Shotts.
They were followed by four fiddlers. Anne Robertson, John Houston, Justine Tennant and Iain Henderson making a first time visit to our club. Sandy Forrest from Roberton and local talent Liam Young and Scott McInnes and how these youngsters are coming on.
Next on stage were button box players Bob Logan and Bob Berry (three row) and always welcome on his two-row Borsini Ronnie Copeland. Young Alan Gardiner, another super young player, took the stage with a full band, followed by Douglas Callan from Strathaven. Then Neilson Callan from Wisaw and next some high speed playing was demonstrated by Graeme Johnston who is always welcome at the Club. From Biggar we had John Anderson. Johnston brought along Keith Dickson, also a first timer at our Club.
Let us at this stage say we wish Justine’s roadie Willie a quick and successful recovery from his hip operation.
Our regular drummer Bruce Shaw was on the stage as usual. Joe Taylor and Charlie Todd shared his stool for the night. Also in the audience, but could not be coaxed on stage, was John Simpson from Forth. John is the regular drummer with the Thistle Dance Band under the leadership of 5 row accordionist Alex Burnside.
Joe Taylor is at present drumming with the Caledonian SDB. This band is led by accordionist Keith Dickson. Another first-timer at our Club and one who will always be welcome was Morag McAskill on keyboard.
We would like to offer apologies to Arthur McKeown and his good lady, but it was only when they were leaving did the Chairman realise who they were. Arthur, from the Milngavie club, will be welcome at any time.
Tea and a super sausage roll were served at the interval and thanks to everyone who donated raffles.
The night finished around midnight with a super stramash led by the band. We all headed home with music in our ears and Jimmy Yeaman with his raffle prize of enough tatties to keep the chip pan going for a couple of days.
Was that the night over? Not at all, about 14 to 16 people ended up at Allan Smith’s new house. A dram was dished up and we toasted Allan and Christine’s new house. Mother and father, Jock and Dorothy, assisted and tea and sandwiches were also served while baby Laura slept through it all upstairs and this ended an excellent night.
In March we have the Jack Delaney SDB.
Jack Gray (Chairman)
Year 8 No 7 March 1985
Thursday, 14th February, yes St Valentine’s Day and at Lesmahagow A&F Club it was a super night. But, alas! We nearly suffered a tragedy. Visiting our Club for the first time from Drymen, with his Shand Morino, was Duncan McCallum. Unfortunately, his name didn’t go on the players sheet. But for our guest artiste telling me, he could have been missed out. This would have been sacrilege because he must be one of the best exponents of the button-box and will always be welcome at our Club.
To our guest artistes - a super four-piece band led by Colin Finlayson, with Rikki Franci, Neil McMillan and Gus Millar. A compact band, playing superb selection in a true traditional style.
But what about our own support? Twenty-two accordionists and fiddlers came along to join in. The younger element – Pamela Gray, Michelle Aitken, Liam Young, Carol Wodd, Scott McInnes. Fiddlers Iain Henderson, John Houston, Anne Robertson. We missed Justine Tennant, but we know she’ll be back as soon as Willie, her ever-attendant roadie, gets his bionic joints working. Meantime, pleasant dreams Justine.
Other players on stage were Adam Reid, Bob Berry, Peter Wood, Davie Coke. Ah! I see we had Jimmy Divers back, Nelson Callan, our Treasurer Charlie Todd and from West Linton Dorothy Lawson, Ian Graham, Bruce Shaw, our regular drummer and Joe Taylor. From Ayrshire we had Ronnie Coupland, from Larkhall we had Geordie Cross, who teamed up with Bob Logan.
This was a night of fun. Our Chairman juggled things about, producing trios, quartets and quintets to great effect.
I have deliberately left this name until now – from East Kilbride, pianist, accordionist Grant Crawford, who certainly gave his girlfriend a lovely Valantine. Grant and Heather became engaged today. We congratulate them and wish them all the best for the future.
On this night, Mrs Gray and Mrs Muir, our tea women, got a rest, and why not, they always miss the guest artistes’ first spot as they are preparing tea which is enjoyed at half-time. Mrs Wilson and Elsie took over this chore for a turn. They also provided beautiful buttered pancakes, selling them at the interval. Alas! They only lasted a few minutes until they were sold out.
After distribution of the sausage rolls and raffle tickets drawn, the night went with a swing until near the midnight hour.
Our dance on 30th March with John Laidlaw’s Band is now a sell-out. Our guest artiste for Thursday, 11th April – well known in his field – Wee Joe’s quartet. Yes, this will be different but it will be fun and we invite everyone to come and hear. Four superb musicians, men who know their work from A to Z. Joe is at present Manager of Electronic Accordions, Motherwell. Don’t miss it. If you do you will regret it, when you hear other people talk about it. Again we say, haste ye back.
PS Since our Club night we have learned of the passing of Mrs Logan, who along with Bob, her husband, were strong supporters of our Club.
Year 8 No 8 April 1985
On Thursday, 14th March, we were on the point of needing a balcony fitted into the hall. We had an absolute capacity crowd, but then again look who our guest artistes were, one of the finest characters in Scottish dance music circles, Jack Delaney, with the lovely Jacqueline Dick on second box (and at times taking the lead). Maybe Jacqueline was the star attraction. Then Alistair McGirr accompanying the haunting fiddle of Graeme Burns plus the sweetness of John Delaney’s bass playing all held together by the excellent drumming of Duncan Burns making up one of the finest five-piece Scottish dance bands on the circuit today.
It was midnight when we finished, but we’ll blame that on Jacqueline, who got lost, therefore our first guest artiste spot was late in starting, but no-one complained, with a supporting cast list of Pamela Gray, Michelle Aitken, Fiona Linton from Carluke, and another first time from Mauchline, a super young player Kenneth Cummings, Scott McInnes, Graeme Johnston, Alan Gardiner, Gordon Thomson. From through east Craig McCallum and Marie Fielding. Another regular from the Ayrshire stable Ronnie Coupland. Douglas Callan and one of the evergreens Davie Coke and Adam Reid. The other Callan, Nelson Callan from Wishaw and of course that young thing was there with her fiddle, Justine Tennant, John Houston and Anne Robertson with Jim Devlin making up the five fiddlers.
Peter Wood spent most of the night behind the keyboard. Thanks Peter for bringing along that keyboard. Peter’s a lad about 14 who, although being a good piper, started the accordion some four years ago. A pupil of mine who has worked himself to the limit in these four years and has become very confident, both on keyboard and accordion, and plays regularly with the Caledonian SDB.
The drums on the night were shared by our regular drummer, Bruce Shaw and Hugh Gebbie, Charlie Todd and Willie Wilson.
Our Club appreciate the strong and solid support we are receiving and there in the middle of the hall – two people who know what the accordion world is all about, Sheila and Norrie Williams. I trust Sheila this night helped to make up missing Musselburgh. Apologies Norrie and thanks for standing down on the night, and other accordion players Peter Wood, Charlie Todd and Hugh Gebbie.
Hold it! My wife has just reminded me of the super spot played on bass, keyboard and drums or should I say the rhythm section of Jack Delaney’s Band. This was certainly different. I believe it was called the Queen of Sheba. Again Annie Buchanan excelled herself selling the raffle tickets, as did everyone who donated prizes for the raffle. Thanks, Norrie Williams, for drawing the raffle.
Our Chairman, members and friends were pleased to welcome back to the fold two sheep we thought we had lost, the Brodie Twins, no not players but top-class supporters and as the night neared its end Allan Smith from Kirkfieldbank appeared in the hall, half the garage oil sticking to his fingers, being a mechanic, straight off the back shift at Trust Motors. Starving he managed to polish off some of the surplus sausage rolls but, alas, who was superman of the night, unbelievable fit, the oldest roadie in the business, Willie Tennant, Thanks Willie for your many fine complimentary remarks. To see you walking in unaided so soon after your operation makes many of us feel humble at our minor complaints.
Now to Saturday, 30th March, our Club Spring Dance in the Jubilee Hall, Lesmahagow. Attendance 160+. We ask why this is so popular, but we know why. When the John Laidlaw Trio is on stage everyone is guaranteed a superb night of non-stop dancing. So much so, tickets are already being booked for a dance in October, same venue and band.
Our May guest will be the well known Robert Black SDB. We would ask the same support for Robert as we had for Jack Delaney. Remember our Club meet throughout the summer, without guests artistes, June, July and August. Come and join us then and we say again ‘Haste ye back’.
Jack Gray (Chairman)