Box and Fiddle
Year 15 No 05
January 1992
Price 50p
12 pages
8 month subscription £6.00
Editor – Interim Editor – Doug Adamson, 22 Westfield Drive, Forfar, Angus, DD8 1EQ
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian.
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
As the ‘B&F’ enters another year on a slightly happier note than last, we still have a few problems to solve.
Due to the Festive Season, many Clubs miss their December or January meeting. Consequently, when they have their first meeting of the year, they have two issues of the ‘B&F’ to sell.
It has been suggested that there should be just one issue to cover December/January, perhaps 16 pages instead of the usual 12. This would, of course, mean only 7 issues per season instead of 8. I would welcome comments from Club Secretaries on this matter.
I have been informed that I am publishing Dairy dates from Clubs who have not paid their £15 membership fee. These may appear again this month, but from the February issue only paid-up Association members can expect to have their dates published.
On the question of the £15 membership fee, I am frequently asked “Where does the money go?”. I have spoken to the Association Secretary on this matter and he is supplying me with a letter of explanation which I hope to publish in the next issue.
Finally, while most Clubs are doing well, certain Clubs including a few notable ones are struggling from a lack of both players and listeners. It is very easy to sit downafter tea and switch on the ‘telly’ on these cold winter nights. But do remember, without your support, these Clubs will not survive and without these Clubs the youngsters of tomorrow will be denied a sympathetic platform.
Wishing you all a happy and prosperous New Year.
Doug Adamson
The Hills of Moffat
by Charlie Todd
Few players or listeners will be unfamiliar with the tunes “The Hills of Moffat” and “John D. Burgess”. I recall the late Alex McArthur introducing the latter tune by saying that because of its style many people incorrectly attributed it to Bobby McLeod, a tribute in itself, but that it was actually written by a piper from Moffat – George Cockburn. Where better to start then than by speaking initially to local music and dance enthusiasts Tom and Margaret Porteous, themselves residents of Moffat, who were able to direct me to George’s daughter, Margaret Rae, who still lives in nearby Lockerbie.
Over a cup of tea Mrs Rae told me about her father. George S. Cockburn was born in Craigmillar in Edinburgh in 1897. He was tutored in piping by his father and on leaving school began work at Murray’s Brewery in Craigmillar. At the outbreak of war in 1914, although only 17, he volunteered and was enlisted into the 9th Battalion Royal Scots – “The Dandy 9th” as they were known. Having served throughout the war in France and Belgium he returned to Murray’s after hostilities ceased where he ultimately became Transport Manager.
George became a member of the Highland Piping Society in Edinburgh and over the years won all the Society’s trophies. He was a gifted pibroch player and second to none at playing for Highland dancing. He attended the various Highland Gatherings, Oban being his favourite, and won numerous medals in the competitions. During the Second World War he was Pipe Major of the Edinburgh Home Guard Pipe Band. Always a great family man he taught his two sons and his grandson to pipe but refused point-blank to teach Margaret since he considered it ‘unladylike’.
George composed a great many tunes over the years but, sadly for us all, most were handed to fellow pipers (for whom the house at Murray’s Brewery was a musical haven) without titles and have probably since been either lost or credited to other composers. One exception was a six eight march which was played at every opportunity by a young piper at the Society who was studying at the Castle under the renowned Pipe Major Willie Ross – John D. Burgess.
During George’s working life one of his greatest pleasures was to motor down from Edinburgh to Moffat in the family’s tiny saloon car. He would halt the car at the top of the Devil’s Beeftub and gaze down at the town, which lies encircled by the beautiful Lowther Hills saying that one day he would stay in Moffat.
The chance presented itself for George to do just that when eldest son Iain, a Maths teacher, was offered a post at Moffat Academy. Margaret and husband Neil, had already moved to nearly Kettleholm and when George’s health began to give cause for concern he took the opportunity to retire early and fulfil his dream by settling in Moffat. Although his health forced him to decline an invitation to become involved with the local pipe band in Moffat, he was inspired to compose a tune for them which he entitled “The Hills of Moffat”.
Another direct link with our own music world was provided by Iain. He was very interested in traditional fiddle music and on a visit to Aberdeen he met Hector McAndrew. A close friendship was formed and frequent visits to each others homes ensued. Hector accompanied Iain to fiddle nights with Willie Scott at Eskdalemuir (late Bentpath) and to Kenny Wilson’s home at Elvanfoot. Hector said that given time Iain would have been one of Scotland’s finest exponents of the instrument. Sadly however, fate decreed otherwise and Iain died from cancer at the age of only thirty-four, a loss from which his parents never fully recovered.
George Cockburn died in 1974 leaving us with at least two very fine tunes for which he will long be remembered.
The 4th Annual A.S.M.A. Festival
by Derek Hamilton
The Magnum Leisure Centre, Irvine on Saturday, 9th November was once again the venue for the West of Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival.
Entries were down a bit this year, but this would appear to be a temporary (we hope) trend. It didn’t detract from the atmosphere at all, which is always very friendly. Despite the lower entry it was still a very busy day for both competitors and helpers alike.
For some competitors it meant a start the day before and an overnight stay in Ayrshire. For the majority though, it was an early rise on the Saturday morning as competitions started at about 9 o’clock. The competitors came from so far north as Inverness and from Dumfries in the south.
Competition continued throughout the day until just after 5 pm. After tea at 7 pm the Concert got under way and this was followed by a Ceilidh Dance at 9 pm with the Bobby Cronie Trio.
The prizes for each section were all donated for the winners of each section and there are some marvelous cups and shields to be won. Second and third prize winners in each section also receive a momento of their success.
The Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank all donors for their kind generosity and at the same time congratulate all the winners on their successes.
Also, thanks to all those who took part in the concert organized so well by David Ross, our new Chairman.
The Committee would also like to make special mention of all the helpers who gave up their valuable time to make the day such a success. A well attended Ceilidh Dance ended the proceedings on a most cheery note, thanks to the excellent music of the Bobby Cronie Trio.
The most important people at any Festival like this are, of course, the competitors and the judges. There is a full list of winners at the end of this article, but it would be remiss of us not to mention all the non-winners. They are equally important contributors to the success of the day. Thanks to all who took part.
Whether you agree with all their decisions or not, judges are the ‘necessary evil’ of the competitions. Our thanks go out to Peter Bruce, Bill Cook and Archie Duncan for their deliberances on the day.
I cannot let this report end without mentioning two of nature’s gentlemen who, over the years have been deeply associated with A.S.M.A. Sadly, earlier this year, we lost our quiet, unassuming, dedicated chairman. The sad, sudden death of Willie Wilson shocked us all. He is sadly missed for his ardent enthusiasm and unselfish help in everything where he got involved. Sadly missed indeed.
The other ‘nature’s gentleman’ I refer to is Norrie Williams, who is recovering from a serious accident to his leg. Norman is another of those wonderful people who are totally committed to everything they do, but in the quietest possible way. Here’s to a speedy recovery and looking forward to you being back in action soon.
Next year’s date for the Festival has yet to be fixed, but we hope that it might be sometime just before the Perth Festival – we’ll keep you posted.
RESULTS
Senior Accordion – Trad M,S&R
1) Pauline Laverie
2) Michael Philip
3) Iain Carmichael
Senior Accordion – Trad M,S&R Pipe
1) Michael Philip
2) William Bradley
3) Iain Carmichael
Junior Accordion – Trad M,S&R Pipe
1) Craig Skinner
2) Scott Gordon
3) Andrew Gordon
Under 16 Accordion Solo – Trad M,S&R
1) Scott Gordon
2) Kenneth Johnstone
3) Craig Skinner
Trio
Hazel Copland
Band
Pauline Laverie
Own Composition
Michael Philip
Classical Open Solo
1) Andrew Gordon
2) Glenda Taylor
3) Eileen Harkness
Classical Under 16 Solo
1) Andrew Gordon
2) Janet Steel
3) Shirley Campbell
Classical Under 14 Solo
Anthony Mitchell
Classical Under 12 Solo
Eileen Harkness
Senior Fiddle Solo M,S&R
1) Alistair McCulloch
2) Douglas Ballantyne
3) Robert Rock
Senior Fiddle Solo Slow Air
1) Alistair McCulloch
2) Douglas Ballantyne
3) Robert Rock
Junior Fiddle Solo M,S&R
1) David MacKay
2) Jill Copland
3) John C. Wilson
Junior Fiddle Solo Slow Air
1) Jill Copland
2) David MacKay
3) John C. Wilson
Open Fiddle Solo Pipe MSR
1) Alistair McCulloch
2) Robert Rock
Open Fiddle Group
Cunningham Young Fiddlers
Introducing Our New Correspondent
Scottish music has seen a few changes since north-east ‘B&F’ correspondent Noel Donaldson first strapped on the box.
He started his music on the piano in his home town of Wick and then switched to accordion at the age of 13, receiving lessons from the late Eann Nicholson, accordionist with the Wick Scottish Broadcasting Band.
Noel later went on to play piano and second box with Bobby Coghill’s Milton SDB. A journalist, he was a member of Orkney A&F Club and did some coaching in the isles before moving south to get a new weekly paper off the ground in the Aberdeenshire town of Ellon.
It meant that the musical side of things had to take a back seat but he is hoping to renew his interest in the playing side as well as writing for the ‘B&F’.
Introducing the Clubs
No 5 Mauchline and District
by Irene Cunningham
As Accordion and fiddle Clubs go, we are one of the younger ones. The club was started on 25th October, 1983, by Kenny Nairn and his wife Elizabeth. Kenny as Chairman and Elizabeth as Treasurer. Kenny’s sister Linda, helped as Committee member. The meeting was held in the Jean Armour Function Suite – where we still hold our meetings. Apart from the steep stairs, it is an ideal place. Everyone complains about the stairs, but they faithfully climb them every month I’m glad to say.
At the beginning of the second season, Bill and Irene Cunningham joined the Committee, Irene as Secretary and Bill as Committee member.
We would be one of the first Clubs, as far as I know, to have Inter-Club nights. This is a grand way other Club members and players. Quite a few Clubs have visited us and we have returned their visits having very enjoyable nights.
At Mauchline we have a very faithful, following who come every month from all over Ayrshire. That is why we add ‘and District’ to the Club name.
We do not have a membership, but an open door system. This leaves it open to people from anywhere to come and enjoy the night with us – they will always be made welcome.
In 1985, Linda Nairn dropped out of the Committee to do other things. We than asked Margaret Davidson into the Committee and she is still with us.
The Club continued to flourish, players range from about 12 years to 80 years young. It has been most satisfying to watch the young players develop. For instance, Kenny Cumming, Malcolm Rae, Andrew Murray and later on Davie Gracie. All grew up in the Club and are now the ‘Ballochmyle Ceilidh Band’ and doing very well indeed. Alistair McCulloch also came as a young boy and is now one of the leading solo fiddle players in the country. He also plays in the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra doing some solo work there as well. He has composed some good tunes.
William and Alex Weir both came as boys and although William has his studies to attend to just now, he’ll likely continue later. Alex is a fine accordionist with a promising future – he has won a lot of trophies already, as did William.
Young Scott Gordon is another good accordionist and drummer with a lot of show business experience under his belt already. He will also go far.
The older players all play their part well. There is Tom Gardner, who is now 80 and gives us a tune every month on his 5-row button box, as does Alex Harvey, with his set of ebony bones given to him when he was 12 years old and still going strong. As Alex says he “doesn’t need to tune them”.
Davy Ross and Jimmy Henderson, two friends from Galston also play button key boxes, as does Ben Murray who joins Bob Torrance, our moothie player and produces a lovely mellow sound.
I mentioned Scott Gordon earlier, who bring his dad Joe along, and he joins Scott on banjo. This makes a different sound again.
A few years ago a Trio was formed with Bill Cunningham on fiddle, his wife Irene, who used to play accordion but is now back to playing keyboard, and Lena MacLennan on accordion. They play very much in the pipe idiom. All three compose music and now have a fair collection and Lena does the arranging.
Jim Fleming comes over from Cumnock regularly – a fine player and composer.
One of our older members, Jimmy Cunningham from Maybole, who played faithfully from the beginning is unfortunately not well enough to come and join us nowadays.
A feature we hold at out March meeting every year is our ‘Own Composition’ competition. We usually have about 9 entries and the winner is given a small shield to keep. This is confined to Mauchline players.
Three years ago, Kenny and Elizabeth Nairn found that owing to family and work commitments they would have to leave the Club. Bill Cunningham then became chairman, Irene stayed as Secretary and Margaret Davidson took over the Treasurer’s job. We then asked two of the younger members, Kenny Cumming and Malcolm Rae to join the Committee. We believe in encouraging the younger ones to take part in the running of the Club as it will be in their hands in the future. Kenny and Malcolm share the M.C.s job and are doing fine.
Our hosts over the years were Hugh and Myra Campbell, who looked after us very well. They retired last March and our new hostess is Mrs Catherine Grant, who is carrying on the good work providing hot, home-made soup, pies and peas at the interval. This has always been a ‘highlight’ of the Mauchline club.
I am told that we are known as ‘The Friendly Club’. I do hope this is true, for that is what we aim to be. Pay us a visit sometime – we are always pleased to see players and listeners from all ‘airts and pairts’.
Highland Showtime
by Graham Wilson
Saturday, 9th November, 1990 saw a full house (yet again) at Eden Court, for the H.A.F.C.’s Annual concert, ‘Highland Showtime’. Our own orchestra opened the evening.
The ever popular Elizabeth Fraser Dancers delighted the audience with their dance routines accompanied by Craig Watson on the pipes. The orchestra continued with a lively set of reels and this was followed by some lovely Gaelic songs by Dena Graham. Dean’s originally from the Outer Hebrides, but fortunately now living locally.
Young Robert MacKay played some smashing stuff on the box next and another of our Club members gave some more foot-tapping selections on the fiddle, in the shape of Morag Menzies.
Pete Carson was our M.C. for the night and a few gags from Pete took us up nicely to guest band time. This was the first time I’d heard James Coutts and his Band and myself and everyone else were most impressed by their slick, tight sound and had us all waiting for the next half.
Interval over and the orchestra opened with a couple of good heavy 2/4 pipe tunes. The Elizabeth Fraser Dancers and Craig Watson on the pipes kept the feet tapping again.
My old mate, Jimmy Smith, manager to free himself of his afternoon nerves and gave some rousing sets on the moothie.
James Gunn followed with some more lively Gaelic songs. My Gaelic is, unfortunately, limited to a couple of choice phrases – so all I can say is, thanks James.
Judith MacKenzie looked calm and collected and gave some lively music on the box. Judith is another regular Club member and it was great to see her playing so well.
Lindsay Weir (accordion), Mark MacDougall (fiddle) and Ena Anderson (keyboard) played some brilliant stuff next, including the lovely ‘Miss rowan Davies’ and some fast moving fiddle tunes by Mark. They really put it over that they were enjoying themselves and we certainly enjoyed them.
A few more gags from Pete Carson took us up to guest time again. One of the tunes James played was a slow air/slow march which I composed myself called ‘A Tribute to the late Mrs Helen Shepherd’. I wrote this tune for Allen Shepherd and his sister, Helen, for their mother who sadly died shortly after the 1990 concert.
All too soon, the Show came to an end and special thanks must go to Allen Shepherd who not only produced the Show, but booked the artistes, organized the clothes and much more besides. Special thanks also to Julie Drummond, who does such a splendid job in leading the orchestra, arranging the music, seating etc. Thanks also to Pete Carson who did a great job as M.C. and link man. Finally, thanks to the audience who came from far and near, without you it wouldn’t have worked.
A Livingston Stalwart
by Murdo McLeod
This month we have pleasure in featuring Ian Allan, one of our resident drummers at Livingston A&F Club.
Richard John Allan, to give him his full title, was born in Longformacus, Berwickshire, where dad was a shepherd for Pate of Redpath. Ian went to school there until the age of 8 when his dad moved to Duns, to Castlemains Farm, then another move to Dunbar and Meikle Pinkerton and finally to Boonslie Farm.
In 1948, Ian followed dad to Hardiesmill at Gordon as a shepherd in his own right, but fate was to strike a nasty blow, for Ian was injured in an accident which finished his beloved shepherding. He then came to Buteland near Balerno and finished up at Grants of Westfield factory making furniture.
Ian now stays in Currie. His oldest son plays accordion and Ian took up the drums to help him out at local dances.
A regular drummer with the John Rae Band, he has also played with the Alick MacKenzie Band. He got part of his love of music from his dad who, like many other Scottish shepherds, played the fiddle.
Asked who his favourite band is, the quick reply was ‘The Wallochmor’ and the most memorable Club night was Fintan Stanley who played for us at the Cameron Iron Works Social Club in 1978. Incidentally, won’t the Clubs co-operate to bring Fintan back from New York for a tour?
Ian thinks that the Club is a very friendly one. We, the punters think that Ian is also similarly disposed and thank him for his services over the many years, CEUD TAING!
Record and Book Review
Charlie Cowie – ‘Unsquare Dance’ – Lismor LICE/LCOM 5207
The Box and Banjo Band – Dancing Party – Lismor – LICS/LCOM 5209
Take the Floor
4th Jan 92 – Shetland Mixture SDB
11th Jan 92 – Kenny Thomson & the Wardlaw SDB
18th Jan 92 – Gordon Shand SDB
25th Jan 92 – John Carmichael SDB
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) – 28th Jan 1992 – Mrs Gerrard’s Orchestra
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) -
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 31st Jan 1992 – Dance to Dick Black Band
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 5th Jan 1992 – Donnie McGregor
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 19th Jan 1992 – Black Rose Ceilidh Band
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Knowes Hotel, Macduff) –
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 20th Jan 1992 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Belford (Community Club) –
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 12th Jan 1992 – John Laidlaw Trio
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) -
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Brigmill (Guardbridge Sports & Social Club)
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 21st Jan 1992 – Alistair McCulloch Trio
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 16th Jan 1992 – Alan Roy
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel)
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 8th Jan 1992 – Jock Fraser SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 21st Jan 1992 – Joe Gordon Ceilidh Trio
Dundee (Invercarse Hotel) – 17th Dance to Bobby Crowe SDB
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 30th Jan 1992 – Kenny McLean & Glasgow Cale’ S&R Society
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Ettrick & Yarrow (The Gordon Arms) - 15th Jan 1992 – Bob Hobkirk & Friends
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 27th Jan 1992 – Jack Delaney Band
Forfar (Plough Inn) - 26th Jan 1992 – Jacqueline Dick Band
Forres (Brig Motel) – 8th Jan 1992 – Jennifer Wilson Accordion Group
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) -
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 20th Jan 1992 – Norman Urquhart
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 7th Jan 1992 – John Renton SDB
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Mabie House Hotel) – 7th Jan 1992 – David Vernon
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 29th Jan 1992 – Gordon Shand SDB
Kinlochshiel (Strathcarron Hotel) - 13th Jan 1992 – Hugh Morrison
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 9th Jan 1992 – Dochie McCallum SDB
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate) 21st Jan 1992 – Sandy Nixon SDB
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 28th Jan 1992 - Ceilidh
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Restaurant)
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 27th Jan 1992 – Archie Duncan
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Seafield Hotel, Keith) –
Oban (Highlands Restaurant) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 16th Jan 1992 – Scott Leslie Band
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 30th Jan 1992 – Tommy Ford
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 21st Jan 1992 – Maureen Turnbull
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 14th Jan 1992 – Phoenix Ceilidh Band
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) -
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) -
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 13th Jan 1992 – Addie Harper Jnr & Michael Farmer
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
Wooler ( ) -
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Arbroath
2. Armadale
3. Ayr
4. Banchory
5. Belford
6. Biggar
7. Blairgowrie
8. Button Key
9. Castle Douglas
10. Coalburn
11. Dingwall
12. Dunblane
13. Dundee
14. Dunfermline
15. East Kilbride
16. Etterick & Yarrow
17. Fintry
18. Forfar
19. Forres
20. Galston
21. Glendale
22. Gretna
23. Highland
24. Inveraray
25. Islesteps
26. Kelso
27. Kintore
28. Lesmahagow
29. Livingston
30. M.A.F.I.A.
31. Montrose
32. Newtongrange
33. Perth
34. Premier
35. Renfrew
36. Rothbury
37. Shetland
38, Stirling
39. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1990 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
4. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition)
9. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
10. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
11. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
12. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990
13. Button Key A&F Club (
14. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
15. Coalburn A&F Club
16. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
17. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
18. Derwentside A&F Club
19. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
24. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
25. Ellon A&F Club (
26. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
27. Fintry A&F Club
28. Forfar A&F Club
29. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
30. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
31. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
32. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
33. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
34. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
35. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991)
36. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
37. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
38. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
39. Kintore A&F Club
40. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
41. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
42. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
43. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
44. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
45. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986?)
46. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
47. Mull A&F Club
48. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
49. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
50. North Cumbria A&F Club (originally Gretna started June 1966 – had to move to a venue in the North of England and changed name – eventually changed back when they returned to the Halcrow Stadium. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
51. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
52. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
53. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
54. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
55. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
56. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
57. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
58. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
59. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
60. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
61. Sutherland A&F Club (
62. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
63. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
64. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
65. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
66. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
67. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
68. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
69. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
70. Buchan A&F Club
71. Callander A&F Club (
72. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
73. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
74. Club Accord
75. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
76. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
77. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
78. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
79. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
80. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
81. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
82. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
83. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
84. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
85. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
86. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
87. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
88. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
89. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
90. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
91. Newcastleton Accordion Club
92. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
93. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
94. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
95. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
96. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
97. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
98. Wellbank A&F Club
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B&F Treasurer – Mrs Margaret Smith, Smeaton Farm Cottage, Dalkeith, Midlothian.
The main features in the above issue were as follows (this is not a comprehensive detail of all it contained. The Club reports, in particular, are too time consuming at this stage to retype).
Editorial
As the ‘B&F’ enters another year on a slightly happier note than last, we still have a few problems to solve.
Due to the Festive Season, many Clubs miss their December or January meeting. Consequently, when they have their first meeting of the year, they have two issues of the ‘B&F’ to sell.
It has been suggested that there should be just one issue to cover December/January, perhaps 16 pages instead of the usual 12. This would, of course, mean only 7 issues per season instead of 8. I would welcome comments from Club Secretaries on this matter.
I have been informed that I am publishing Dairy dates from Clubs who have not paid their £15 membership fee. These may appear again this month, but from the February issue only paid-up Association members can expect to have their dates published.
On the question of the £15 membership fee, I am frequently asked “Where does the money go?”. I have spoken to the Association Secretary on this matter and he is supplying me with a letter of explanation which I hope to publish in the next issue.
Finally, while most Clubs are doing well, certain Clubs including a few notable ones are struggling from a lack of both players and listeners. It is very easy to sit downafter tea and switch on the ‘telly’ on these cold winter nights. But do remember, without your support, these Clubs will not survive and without these Clubs the youngsters of tomorrow will be denied a sympathetic platform.
Wishing you all a happy and prosperous New Year.
Doug Adamson
The Hills of Moffat
by Charlie Todd
Few players or listeners will be unfamiliar with the tunes “The Hills of Moffat” and “John D. Burgess”. I recall the late Alex McArthur introducing the latter tune by saying that because of its style many people incorrectly attributed it to Bobby McLeod, a tribute in itself, but that it was actually written by a piper from Moffat – George Cockburn. Where better to start then than by speaking initially to local music and dance enthusiasts Tom and Margaret Porteous, themselves residents of Moffat, who were able to direct me to George’s daughter, Margaret Rae, who still lives in nearby Lockerbie.
Over a cup of tea Mrs Rae told me about her father. George S. Cockburn was born in Craigmillar in Edinburgh in 1897. He was tutored in piping by his father and on leaving school began work at Murray’s Brewery in Craigmillar. At the outbreak of war in 1914, although only 17, he volunteered and was enlisted into the 9th Battalion Royal Scots – “The Dandy 9th” as they were known. Having served throughout the war in France and Belgium he returned to Murray’s after hostilities ceased where he ultimately became Transport Manager.
George became a member of the Highland Piping Society in Edinburgh and over the years won all the Society’s trophies. He was a gifted pibroch player and second to none at playing for Highland dancing. He attended the various Highland Gatherings, Oban being his favourite, and won numerous medals in the competitions. During the Second World War he was Pipe Major of the Edinburgh Home Guard Pipe Band. Always a great family man he taught his two sons and his grandson to pipe but refused point-blank to teach Margaret since he considered it ‘unladylike’.
George composed a great many tunes over the years but, sadly for us all, most were handed to fellow pipers (for whom the house at Murray’s Brewery was a musical haven) without titles and have probably since been either lost or credited to other composers. One exception was a six eight march which was played at every opportunity by a young piper at the Society who was studying at the Castle under the renowned Pipe Major Willie Ross – John D. Burgess.
During George’s working life one of his greatest pleasures was to motor down from Edinburgh to Moffat in the family’s tiny saloon car. He would halt the car at the top of the Devil’s Beeftub and gaze down at the town, which lies encircled by the beautiful Lowther Hills saying that one day he would stay in Moffat.
The chance presented itself for George to do just that when eldest son Iain, a Maths teacher, was offered a post at Moffat Academy. Margaret and husband Neil, had already moved to nearly Kettleholm and when George’s health began to give cause for concern he took the opportunity to retire early and fulfil his dream by settling in Moffat. Although his health forced him to decline an invitation to become involved with the local pipe band in Moffat, he was inspired to compose a tune for them which he entitled “The Hills of Moffat”.
Another direct link with our own music world was provided by Iain. He was very interested in traditional fiddle music and on a visit to Aberdeen he met Hector McAndrew. A close friendship was formed and frequent visits to each others homes ensued. Hector accompanied Iain to fiddle nights with Willie Scott at Eskdalemuir (late Bentpath) and to Kenny Wilson’s home at Elvanfoot. Hector said that given time Iain would have been one of Scotland’s finest exponents of the instrument. Sadly however, fate decreed otherwise and Iain died from cancer at the age of only thirty-four, a loss from which his parents never fully recovered.
George Cockburn died in 1974 leaving us with at least two very fine tunes for which he will long be remembered.
The 4th Annual A.S.M.A. Festival
by Derek Hamilton
The Magnum Leisure Centre, Irvine on Saturday, 9th November was once again the venue for the West of Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival.
Entries were down a bit this year, but this would appear to be a temporary (we hope) trend. It didn’t detract from the atmosphere at all, which is always very friendly. Despite the lower entry it was still a very busy day for both competitors and helpers alike.
For some competitors it meant a start the day before and an overnight stay in Ayrshire. For the majority though, it was an early rise on the Saturday morning as competitions started at about 9 o’clock. The competitors came from so far north as Inverness and from Dumfries in the south.
Competition continued throughout the day until just after 5 pm. After tea at 7 pm the Concert got under way and this was followed by a Ceilidh Dance at 9 pm with the Bobby Cronie Trio.
The prizes for each section were all donated for the winners of each section and there are some marvelous cups and shields to be won. Second and third prize winners in each section also receive a momento of their success.
The Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank all donors for their kind generosity and at the same time congratulate all the winners on their successes.
Also, thanks to all those who took part in the concert organized so well by David Ross, our new Chairman.
The Committee would also like to make special mention of all the helpers who gave up their valuable time to make the day such a success. A well attended Ceilidh Dance ended the proceedings on a most cheery note, thanks to the excellent music of the Bobby Cronie Trio.
The most important people at any Festival like this are, of course, the competitors and the judges. There is a full list of winners at the end of this article, but it would be remiss of us not to mention all the non-winners. They are equally important contributors to the success of the day. Thanks to all who took part.
Whether you agree with all their decisions or not, judges are the ‘necessary evil’ of the competitions. Our thanks go out to Peter Bruce, Bill Cook and Archie Duncan for their deliberances on the day.
I cannot let this report end without mentioning two of nature’s gentlemen who, over the years have been deeply associated with A.S.M.A. Sadly, earlier this year, we lost our quiet, unassuming, dedicated chairman. The sad, sudden death of Willie Wilson shocked us all. He is sadly missed for his ardent enthusiasm and unselfish help in everything where he got involved. Sadly missed indeed.
The other ‘nature’s gentleman’ I refer to is Norrie Williams, who is recovering from a serious accident to his leg. Norman is another of those wonderful people who are totally committed to everything they do, but in the quietest possible way. Here’s to a speedy recovery and looking forward to you being back in action soon.
Next year’s date for the Festival has yet to be fixed, but we hope that it might be sometime just before the Perth Festival – we’ll keep you posted.
RESULTS
Senior Accordion – Trad M,S&R
1) Pauline Laverie
2) Michael Philip
3) Iain Carmichael
Senior Accordion – Trad M,S&R Pipe
1) Michael Philip
2) William Bradley
3) Iain Carmichael
Junior Accordion – Trad M,S&R Pipe
1) Craig Skinner
2) Scott Gordon
3) Andrew Gordon
Under 16 Accordion Solo – Trad M,S&R
1) Scott Gordon
2) Kenneth Johnstone
3) Craig Skinner
Trio
Hazel Copland
Band
Pauline Laverie
Own Composition
Michael Philip
Classical Open Solo
1) Andrew Gordon
2) Glenda Taylor
3) Eileen Harkness
Classical Under 16 Solo
1) Andrew Gordon
2) Janet Steel
3) Shirley Campbell
Classical Under 14 Solo
Anthony Mitchell
Classical Under 12 Solo
Eileen Harkness
Senior Fiddle Solo M,S&R
1) Alistair McCulloch
2) Douglas Ballantyne
3) Robert Rock
Senior Fiddle Solo Slow Air
1) Alistair McCulloch
2) Douglas Ballantyne
3) Robert Rock
Junior Fiddle Solo M,S&R
1) David MacKay
2) Jill Copland
3) John C. Wilson
Junior Fiddle Solo Slow Air
1) Jill Copland
2) David MacKay
3) John C. Wilson
Open Fiddle Solo Pipe MSR
1) Alistair McCulloch
2) Robert Rock
Open Fiddle Group
Cunningham Young Fiddlers
Introducing Our New Correspondent
Scottish music has seen a few changes since north-east ‘B&F’ correspondent Noel Donaldson first strapped on the box.
He started his music on the piano in his home town of Wick and then switched to accordion at the age of 13, receiving lessons from the late Eann Nicholson, accordionist with the Wick Scottish Broadcasting Band.
Noel later went on to play piano and second box with Bobby Coghill’s Milton SDB. A journalist, he was a member of Orkney A&F Club and did some coaching in the isles before moving south to get a new weekly paper off the ground in the Aberdeenshire town of Ellon.
It meant that the musical side of things had to take a back seat but he is hoping to renew his interest in the playing side as well as writing for the ‘B&F’.
Introducing the Clubs
No 5 Mauchline and District
by Irene Cunningham
As Accordion and fiddle Clubs go, we are one of the younger ones. The club was started on 25th October, 1983, by Kenny Nairn and his wife Elizabeth. Kenny as Chairman and Elizabeth as Treasurer. Kenny’s sister Linda, helped as Committee member. The meeting was held in the Jean Armour Function Suite – where we still hold our meetings. Apart from the steep stairs, it is an ideal place. Everyone complains about the stairs, but they faithfully climb them every month I’m glad to say.
At the beginning of the second season, Bill and Irene Cunningham joined the Committee, Irene as Secretary and Bill as Committee member.
We would be one of the first Clubs, as far as I know, to have Inter-Club nights. This is a grand way other Club members and players. Quite a few Clubs have visited us and we have returned their visits having very enjoyable nights.
At Mauchline we have a very faithful, following who come every month from all over Ayrshire. That is why we add ‘and District’ to the Club name.
We do not have a membership, but an open door system. This leaves it open to people from anywhere to come and enjoy the night with us – they will always be made welcome.
In 1985, Linda Nairn dropped out of the Committee to do other things. We than asked Margaret Davidson into the Committee and she is still with us.
The Club continued to flourish, players range from about 12 years to 80 years young. It has been most satisfying to watch the young players develop. For instance, Kenny Cumming, Malcolm Rae, Andrew Murray and later on Davie Gracie. All grew up in the Club and are now the ‘Ballochmyle Ceilidh Band’ and doing very well indeed. Alistair McCulloch also came as a young boy and is now one of the leading solo fiddle players in the country. He also plays in the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra doing some solo work there as well. He has composed some good tunes.
William and Alex Weir both came as boys and although William has his studies to attend to just now, he’ll likely continue later. Alex is a fine accordionist with a promising future – he has won a lot of trophies already, as did William.
Young Scott Gordon is another good accordionist and drummer with a lot of show business experience under his belt already. He will also go far.
The older players all play their part well. There is Tom Gardner, who is now 80 and gives us a tune every month on his 5-row button box, as does Alex Harvey, with his set of ebony bones given to him when he was 12 years old and still going strong. As Alex says he “doesn’t need to tune them”.
Davy Ross and Jimmy Henderson, two friends from Galston also play button key boxes, as does Ben Murray who joins Bob Torrance, our moothie player and produces a lovely mellow sound.
I mentioned Scott Gordon earlier, who bring his dad Joe along, and he joins Scott on banjo. This makes a different sound again.
A few years ago a Trio was formed with Bill Cunningham on fiddle, his wife Irene, who used to play accordion but is now back to playing keyboard, and Lena MacLennan on accordion. They play very much in the pipe idiom. All three compose music and now have a fair collection and Lena does the arranging.
Jim Fleming comes over from Cumnock regularly – a fine player and composer.
One of our older members, Jimmy Cunningham from Maybole, who played faithfully from the beginning is unfortunately not well enough to come and join us nowadays.
A feature we hold at out March meeting every year is our ‘Own Composition’ competition. We usually have about 9 entries and the winner is given a small shield to keep. This is confined to Mauchline players.
Three years ago, Kenny and Elizabeth Nairn found that owing to family and work commitments they would have to leave the Club. Bill Cunningham then became chairman, Irene stayed as Secretary and Margaret Davidson took over the Treasurer’s job. We then asked two of the younger members, Kenny Cumming and Malcolm Rae to join the Committee. We believe in encouraging the younger ones to take part in the running of the Club as it will be in their hands in the future. Kenny and Malcolm share the M.C.s job and are doing fine.
Our hosts over the years were Hugh and Myra Campbell, who looked after us very well. They retired last March and our new hostess is Mrs Catherine Grant, who is carrying on the good work providing hot, home-made soup, pies and peas at the interval. This has always been a ‘highlight’ of the Mauchline club.
I am told that we are known as ‘The Friendly Club’. I do hope this is true, for that is what we aim to be. Pay us a visit sometime – we are always pleased to see players and listeners from all ‘airts and pairts’.
Highland Showtime
by Graham Wilson
Saturday, 9th November, 1990 saw a full house (yet again) at Eden Court, for the H.A.F.C.’s Annual concert, ‘Highland Showtime’. Our own orchestra opened the evening.
The ever popular Elizabeth Fraser Dancers delighted the audience with their dance routines accompanied by Craig Watson on the pipes. The orchestra continued with a lively set of reels and this was followed by some lovely Gaelic songs by Dena Graham. Dean’s originally from the Outer Hebrides, but fortunately now living locally.
Young Robert MacKay played some smashing stuff on the box next and another of our Club members gave some more foot-tapping selections on the fiddle, in the shape of Morag Menzies.
Pete Carson was our M.C. for the night and a few gags from Pete took us up nicely to guest band time. This was the first time I’d heard James Coutts and his Band and myself and everyone else were most impressed by their slick, tight sound and had us all waiting for the next half.
Interval over and the orchestra opened with a couple of good heavy 2/4 pipe tunes. The Elizabeth Fraser Dancers and Craig Watson on the pipes kept the feet tapping again.
My old mate, Jimmy Smith, manager to free himself of his afternoon nerves and gave some rousing sets on the moothie.
James Gunn followed with some more lively Gaelic songs. My Gaelic is, unfortunately, limited to a couple of choice phrases – so all I can say is, thanks James.
Judith MacKenzie looked calm and collected and gave some lively music on the box. Judith is another regular Club member and it was great to see her playing so well.
Lindsay Weir (accordion), Mark MacDougall (fiddle) and Ena Anderson (keyboard) played some brilliant stuff next, including the lovely ‘Miss rowan Davies’ and some fast moving fiddle tunes by Mark. They really put it over that they were enjoying themselves and we certainly enjoyed them.
A few more gags from Pete Carson took us up to guest time again. One of the tunes James played was a slow air/slow march which I composed myself called ‘A Tribute to the late Mrs Helen Shepherd’. I wrote this tune for Allen Shepherd and his sister, Helen, for their mother who sadly died shortly after the 1990 concert.
All too soon, the Show came to an end and special thanks must go to Allen Shepherd who not only produced the Show, but booked the artistes, organized the clothes and much more besides. Special thanks also to Julie Drummond, who does such a splendid job in leading the orchestra, arranging the music, seating etc. Thanks also to Pete Carson who did a great job as M.C. and link man. Finally, thanks to the audience who came from far and near, without you it wouldn’t have worked.
A Livingston Stalwart
by Murdo McLeod
This month we have pleasure in featuring Ian Allan, one of our resident drummers at Livingston A&F Club.
Richard John Allan, to give him his full title, was born in Longformacus, Berwickshire, where dad was a shepherd for Pate of Redpath. Ian went to school there until the age of 8 when his dad moved to Duns, to Castlemains Farm, then another move to Dunbar and Meikle Pinkerton and finally to Boonslie Farm.
In 1948, Ian followed dad to Hardiesmill at Gordon as a shepherd in his own right, but fate was to strike a nasty blow, for Ian was injured in an accident which finished his beloved shepherding. He then came to Buteland near Balerno and finished up at Grants of Westfield factory making furniture.
Ian now stays in Currie. His oldest son plays accordion and Ian took up the drums to help him out at local dances.
A regular drummer with the John Rae Band, he has also played with the Alick MacKenzie Band. He got part of his love of music from his dad who, like many other Scottish shepherds, played the fiddle.
Asked who his favourite band is, the quick reply was ‘The Wallochmor’ and the most memorable Club night was Fintan Stanley who played for us at the Cameron Iron Works Social Club in 1978. Incidentally, won’t the Clubs co-operate to bring Fintan back from New York for a tour?
Ian thinks that the Club is a very friendly one. We, the punters think that Ian is also similarly disposed and thank him for his services over the many years, CEUD TAING!
Record and Book Review
Charlie Cowie – ‘Unsquare Dance’ – Lismor LICE/LCOM 5207
The Box and Banjo Band – Dancing Party – Lismor – LICS/LCOM 5209
Take the Floor
4th Jan 92 – Shetland Mixture SDB
11th Jan 92 – Kenny Thomson & the Wardlaw SDB
18th Jan 92 – Gordon Shand SDB
25th Jan 92 – John Carmichael SDB
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) – 28th Jan 1992 – Mrs Gerrard’s Orchestra
Alnwick (Golden Fleece) – members only
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) -
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 31st Jan 1992 – Dance to Dick Black Band
Ayr (Gartferry Hotel) – 5th Jan 1992 – Donnie McGregor
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Hall) – 19th Jan 1992 – Black Rose Ceilidh Band
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Knowes Hotel, Macduff) –
Beith & District (Hotel de Croft, Dalry) – 20th Jan 1992 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Belford (Community Club) –
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 12th Jan 1992 – John Laidlaw Trio
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) -
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) -
Brigmill (Guardbridge Sports & Social Club)
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Button Key (Windygates Institute) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) –
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Hotel) – 21st Jan 1992 – Alistair McCulloch Trio
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 16th Jan 1992 – Alan Roy
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel)
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 8th Jan 1992 – Jock Fraser SDB
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 21st Jan 1992 – Joe Gordon Ceilidh Trio
Dundee (Invercarse Hotel) – 17th Dance to Bobby Crowe SDB
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Sweepers, Cambuslang) – 30th Jan 1992 – Kenny McLean & Glasgow Cale’ S&R Society
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Ettrick & Yarrow (The Gordon Arms) - 15th Jan 1992 – Bob Hobkirk & Friends
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 27th Jan 1992 – Jack Delaney Band
Forfar (Plough Inn) - 26th Jan 1992 – Jacqueline Dick Band
Forres (Brig Motel) – 8th Jan 1992 – Jennifer Wilson Accordion Group
Fort William (Alexandra Hotel) –
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) -
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 20th Jan 1992 – Norman Urquhart
Inveraray (Loch Fyne Hotel) - 7th Jan 1992 – John Renton SDB
Isle of Skye -
Islesteps (Mabie House Hotel) – 7th Jan 1992 – David Vernon
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 29th Jan 1992 – Gordon Shand SDB
Kinlochshiel (Strathcarron Hotel) - 13th Jan 1992 – Hugh Morrison
Kintore (Crown Hotel) –
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 9th Jan 1992 – Dochie McCallum SDB
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate) 21st Jan 1992 – Sandy Nixon SDB
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) - 28th Jan 1992 - Ceilidh
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Restaurant)
M.A.F.I.A. (Masonic Hall, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 27th Jan 1992 – Archie Duncan
North Cumbria (Golden Fleece, Ruleholme) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Seafield Hotel, Keith) –
Oban (Highlands Restaurant) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 16th Jan 1992 – Scott Leslie Band
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) – 30th Jan 1992 – Tommy Ford
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 21st Jan 1992 – Maureen Turnbull
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 14th Jan 1992 – Phoenix Ceilidh Band
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) -
Shetland (venue?) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) -
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 13th Jan 1992 – Addie Harper Jnr & Michael Farmer
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
Wooler ( ) -
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Arbroath
2. Armadale
3. Ayr
4. Banchory
5. Belford
6. Biggar
7. Blairgowrie
8. Button Key
9. Castle Douglas
10. Coalburn
11. Dingwall
12. Dunblane
13. Dundee
14. Dunfermline
15. East Kilbride
16. Etterick & Yarrow
17. Fintry
18. Forfar
19. Forres
20. Galston
21. Glendale
22. Gretna
23. Highland
24. Inveraray
25. Islesteps
26. Kelso
27. Kintore
28. Lesmahagow
29. Livingston
30. M.A.F.I.A.
31. Montrose
32. Newtongrange
33. Perth
34. Premier
35. Renfrew
36. Rothbury
37. Shetland
38, Stirling
39. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1990 (Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Sept 1976)
3. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months)
4. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition)
5. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue)
6. Banchory A&F Club (1978)
7. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973)
8. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition)
9. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
10. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974)
11. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
12. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990
13. Button Key A&F Club (
14. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
15. Coalburn A&F Club
16. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
17. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
18. Derwentside A&F Club
19. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
24. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
25. Ellon A&F Club (
26. Etterick & Yarrow (Jan 1989 -
27. Fintry A&F Club
28. Forfar A&F Club
29. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
30. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
31. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
32. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
33. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
34. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
35. Inveraray A&F Club (Oct 1991)
36. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
37. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
38. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
39. Kintore A&F Club
40. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
41. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
42. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
43. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
44. M.A.F.I.A. (early)
45. Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986?)
46. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
47. Mull A&F Club
48. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
49. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
50. North Cumbria A&F Club (originally Gretna started June 1966 – had to move to a venue in the North of England and changed name – eventually changed back when they returned to the Halcrow Stadium. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
51. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
52. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
53. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
54. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
55. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
56. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
57. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
58. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
59. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
60. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
61. Sutherland A&F Club (
62. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
63. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
64. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
65. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
66. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
67. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
68. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
69. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
70. Buchan A&F Club
71. Callander A&F Club (
72. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
73. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
74. Club Accord
75. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
76. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
77. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
78. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
79. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
80. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
81. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
82. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
83. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
84. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
85. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
86. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
87. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
88. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
89. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
90. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
91. Newcastleton Accordion Club
92. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
93. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
94. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
95. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
96. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
97. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
98. Wellbank A&F Club
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