Box and Fiddle
Year 10 No 07
March 1987
Price 30p
12 pages
8 month subscription £3.75
Joint Editors – Tom Clark, 55 Sutherland Crescent, Dundee, DD2 2HP or Douglas Adamson, 22 Westfield Drive, Forfar, DD8 1EQ
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Cathy Andrew, 22 Lochinver Crescent, Foxbar, Paisley Tele 2824
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
You may feel that you’ve heard this somewhere before and be tempted to comment ‘not again’, but in the interests of trying to improve on the material presented to you each month, I think that the appeal is well worth repeating. Suitable material for articles (outwith the club reports) is at times difficult to come by. I am convinced that it would be a tremendous help if we had a ‘reporter’ in each area who would be willing to gather items of interest and send them to me for following up. Any volunteers?
Charles Magnante
Accordionists in the 40+ age group, and possibly many in the younger group, will remember the recording of Charles Magnante as well as his numerous arrangement which were part of the standard repertoire in earlier days. Magnante died on the 30th December, 1986, in the U.S.A. Apart from his brilliant performances over a generation, Magnante dedicated himself to the advancement of the accordion and was highly respected by musicians generally. The news of his death was passed to Malcolm Gee by Mr Anthony Galla-Rini.
Outstanding Accounts
The Treasurer, Miss Cathy Andrew, would be pleased if all outstanding accounts to the B&F could be settled as soon as possible (by end of March).
Subscribers
Please note that all subscriptions are renewable for the year commenting 1st September. Payment should be made in time for list to be drawn up for the first issue, September 1st.
Tom Clark
John Ellis - The Wellbank Fiddler
by Tom Clark
The Highland Country Band has been around for a very long time. Their first broadcast was in 1957 – 30 years ago and still going very strongly, regarded by many as one of the top bands in the country. When I phoned John Ellis the other night to suggest that we have a chat, he was keen and very enthusiastic. The following night we settled in front of a big open fire in John’s lounge out at Wellbank.
“At the start away back” said John, “I wanted to play the button key accordion. It was only when listening to Jimmy Shand’s Band on night in the Kellas Hall that I first realised what a contribution the fiddle made to the band sound. Anyway, fiddles were easier to come by in those days and I started playing the fiddle around the age of 16.”
In 1947 John was involved in the formation of the “Blue Bonnets” Dance Band, with Jimmy Scott, John Philip, Adalene McLeavy and Ron Howie (two fiddles, accordion, piano and drums). That lasted for a while until John went off for a two year spell of National Service in the Army from 1953-55. “During my spell in the army, I was at the War Office in London. I was living in digs and was fortunate in being able to organise my free time. I went along one night to Fetter Lane to hear how Scottish music sounded down there and became involved with the McBain Band. I started playing with the band at dances and functions around London and the South of England. The Porchester Hall was a great venue in those days, as it is now. I remember making a television appearance with the McBain Band.”
Then came the time to come back home. “By the time I got out of the army, the Scottish music scene was on the move and I decided to start my own band” said John. “In those early days there were many players involved before we settled into a regular outfit.” Apart from john there were the following : Adalene McLeavy (piano), John Philip (fiddle), Eileen McIntosh (accordion), Irene Dear (accordion), Willie Duthie (drums), Jimmy Boal (accordion) and Doug Proctor (bass). The band did its first broadcast in 1957. After a few changes in personnel, the front-line settled to the now familiar line-up of Douglas Muir (lead accordion), John on fiddle and Irene Dear (second accordion).
Douglas joined the band in 1960 and has been a regular ever since. In the rhythm section Doug Cargill on bass has been a regular for many years. Drummer and pianists have changed from time to time over the years but the Ellis sound always remains clear and distinctive, easily recognisable. George Boath (drums) and Chick Bonnar (piano) complete the line up.
When I asked John what he thought gave his band its sound, he was in no doubt that it was the combination of the two Ranco accordions of Douglas and Irene together with the fiddle. “Douglas Muir does all the arranging and this has been a big factor” said John.
And what about the scene today? “I think I am generally happy with the sounds being produced today” said John. “I like some of the younger bands but I feel that they should concentrate more on building up their own bands with players in their own age groups and try hard to keep them together. Changes can’t be avoided at times but these can usually be overcome. Young band leaders who recruit well-known, established players for broadcasts etc can’t really miss, but they are not creating anything new or different. One cloud on the accordion and fiddle scene, as far as I am concerned, is the emergence of the fiddle orchestras and rallies. I just hope that the young bandleaders don’t lose hope because of them.”
So far as the Highland Country Band is concerned, John is delighted with the success it has achieved and hopes to continue enjoying his music for many years to come, playing the same style that has served him so well over the years. “We like researching new material. I think that broadcasting bands have a duty to keep the standard up.” Mind you, John confesses to liking the old favourites as well.
Ovewr the years John and his band have made many fine recordings, which always seem to be in demand. The first recording was in 1967 on C.B.S. Then followed others on Emerald in 1974 and 75, Polador in 76, BBC in 77 and Lismor in 1980 and 82. A new recording is due out soon on Lismor called “Fire in the Kilt”. John tells me he has tried a blend of some old favourites together with some brand new material. Emerald are planning a re-release called “The Best of John Ellis” in the near future.
John doesn’t play quite as much these days. “there isn’t the same demand for big bands these days” he told me “but we still play many big occasions. I often augment the band by bringing Bill McNeil from Perth on saxophone and clarinet. I sometimes have problems with Club Guest Spots because Douglas Muir lives so far away but we try to make it to as many as possible.”
John feels that the success of the music scene today is in many ways due to the work of the Accordion and Fiddle Clubs, and wishes them continuing success in the future. “I also appreciate the part played by the Box and Fiddle” said John “and would like to wish all connected with the paper every success in the future.”
Fans of the Ellis sound will be pleased to know that the Band will be seen on BBC TV this year in a recording from Blair Castle in the series “The Visit”.
Judging by John’s enthusiasm during my visit, I am sure that the Highland Country Band will be around for many years to come.
Charles Duncan – An Appreciation
by Neil Rowan
The death, in October 1986, robbed the accordion world of one of its quietest yet most influential ambassadors.
Such was the modesty of Mr Duncan's own personal achievements as a player and band-leader that it is only now - despite a 20 years + association with the gentleman - that I learned of his triumphs in the Band Section of the British Championships before he decided to concentrate on the solo side of tuition.
As a teacher, I have never heard him raise his voice to a pupil and such was his enthusiasm that more often than not our half-hour session would only cease when his wife Nettie, herself an accomplished musician, told him one-and-a-half hours after we began that his supper was ready!
He had many successes at Scottish and National Championships with Junior, Senior and Virtuoso titles being won by his pupils over the years. Such was his regard on a national scale, that the authorities appointed him Great Britain's adjudicator at the 'World championships' - Coupe Mondiale. Both players and teachers alike sought his freely-given advice and to whom he always gave an honest answer - sometimes not to their liking, but the truth can hurt!
He campaigned fervently for the 'Free Bass' cause, introducing contemporary music to pupils at all levels, and laying the sound foundations upon which the reputation of the Free Bass Accordion is now being firmly established by others.
To those who knew Mr Duncan personally it was their good fortune to be able to associate with a gentleman whose insight, awareness, communicative ability to all ages and understanding of the accordion world in particular and musical world in general approached the level on genius.
Thankfully, I am one of the privileged.
Readers Letters
Sir – Just a few lines to say the £1,000 cheque was presented to Mr Alex Duguid from the Guide Dog Association offices, Glasgow, on 3rd January.
We had a ‘hang-over’ party in the Station Hotel, where 150 friends joined in with party hats, balloons, crackers and music from Jim Muir (Kippen), Robert Turner (Bannockburn) and the Recycled Youth Group + Veteran. Thank you Robert and Jim and my other friends.
Best wishes
Kirsty Bisset
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Fleece Inn) – members only –
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) – 5th March 87 Dianne Armstrong
Ayr (Aftongrange Hotel) – 1st March Bobby Crowe SDB
Balloch (Bell Centre, Dumbarton) – 15th Mar 87 Paddy Neary
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith & District (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 26th Mar 87 Supper Dance with Tommy Pringle Trio
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) - 29th Mar 87 Tommy Kettles & Frank Henery
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) – 21st Mar 87 Colin Finlayson SDB
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 17th Mar 87 Bobby Torrance Band
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel) – 5th Mar 87 Simon Howie SDB
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 17th Mar 87 Iain MacPhail SDB
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) – 5th Mar 87 Forfar Club
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 26th Mar 87 The Oakbank Sound
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) –
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) –
Forres (Brig Motel) –
Fort William (Cruchan Hotel) – 9th Mar 87 Hebbie Gray
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) –
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) – 3rd Mar 87 Jim MacLeod SDB
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) –
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 25th Mar 87 Gordon Pattullo
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) –
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate)
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) -
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Restaurant) – 17th Mar 87 Tommy Walker Trio
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 30th Mar 87 Ian Holmes & Kenny Wilson
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Howard Arms) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Seafield Hotel, Keith) – 3rd Mar 87 Jennifer Forrest SDB
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 19th Mar 87 Gordon Pattullo
Peebles (County Hotel) –
Perth (Station Hotel) – 17th Mar 87 Open Night
Premier NI (Wilson’s of Crumlin) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall) – 10th Mar 87 Bobby Harvey Trio
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) -
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Railway Club) –
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Armadale
3. Ayr
4. Banchory
5. Banff
6. Belford
7. Crieff
8. Dingwall & District
9. Dundee
10. East Kilbride
11. Forres
12. Fort William
13. Galston
14. Highland
15. Islesteps
16. Kelso
17. Kinlochsheil
18. Mauchline
19. Newtongrange
20. North East
21. Perth
22. Renfrew
23. Shetland
24. Thurso
25. Tynedale
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1986 (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. Buchan A&F Club
12. Callander A&F Club (
13. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
14. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
15. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
16. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
17. Derwentside A&F Club
18. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
19. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
25. Ellon A&F Club (
26. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
27. Fintry A&F Club
28. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
29. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
30. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
31. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
32. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
33. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
34. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
35. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
36. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
37. Kintore A&F Club
38 Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
39 Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
40. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
41 Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
42 M.A.F.I.A. (early)
43 Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986?)
44. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
45. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
46. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
47. 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)
48. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
49. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
50. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
51. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
52. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
53. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
54. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
55. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
56. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
57. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
58. Sutherland A&F Club (
59. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
60. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
61. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
62. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
63. 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?)
64. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
65. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
66. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
67. Club Accord
68. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
69. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
70. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
71. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
72. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
73. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
74. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
75. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
76. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
77. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
78. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
79. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
80. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
81. Newcastleton Accordion Club
82. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
83. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
84. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
85. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
86. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £92
Half Page - £46
Quarter Page - £23
B&F Treasurer – Mrs Cathy Andrew, 22 Lochinver Crescent, Foxbar, Paisley Tele 2824
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
You may feel that you’ve heard this somewhere before and be tempted to comment ‘not again’, but in the interests of trying to improve on the material presented to you each month, I think that the appeal is well worth repeating. Suitable material for articles (outwith the club reports) is at times difficult to come by. I am convinced that it would be a tremendous help if we had a ‘reporter’ in each area who would be willing to gather items of interest and send them to me for following up. Any volunteers?
Charles Magnante
Accordionists in the 40+ age group, and possibly many in the younger group, will remember the recording of Charles Magnante as well as his numerous arrangement which were part of the standard repertoire in earlier days. Magnante died on the 30th December, 1986, in the U.S.A. Apart from his brilliant performances over a generation, Magnante dedicated himself to the advancement of the accordion and was highly respected by musicians generally. The news of his death was passed to Malcolm Gee by Mr Anthony Galla-Rini.
Outstanding Accounts
The Treasurer, Miss Cathy Andrew, would be pleased if all outstanding accounts to the B&F could be settled as soon as possible (by end of March).
Subscribers
Please note that all subscriptions are renewable for the year commenting 1st September. Payment should be made in time for list to be drawn up for the first issue, September 1st.
Tom Clark
John Ellis - The Wellbank Fiddler
by Tom Clark
The Highland Country Band has been around for a very long time. Their first broadcast was in 1957 – 30 years ago and still going very strongly, regarded by many as one of the top bands in the country. When I phoned John Ellis the other night to suggest that we have a chat, he was keen and very enthusiastic. The following night we settled in front of a big open fire in John’s lounge out at Wellbank.
“At the start away back” said John, “I wanted to play the button key accordion. It was only when listening to Jimmy Shand’s Band on night in the Kellas Hall that I first realised what a contribution the fiddle made to the band sound. Anyway, fiddles were easier to come by in those days and I started playing the fiddle around the age of 16.”
In 1947 John was involved in the formation of the “Blue Bonnets” Dance Band, with Jimmy Scott, John Philip, Adalene McLeavy and Ron Howie (two fiddles, accordion, piano and drums). That lasted for a while until John went off for a two year spell of National Service in the Army from 1953-55. “During my spell in the army, I was at the War Office in London. I was living in digs and was fortunate in being able to organise my free time. I went along one night to Fetter Lane to hear how Scottish music sounded down there and became involved with the McBain Band. I started playing with the band at dances and functions around London and the South of England. The Porchester Hall was a great venue in those days, as it is now. I remember making a television appearance with the McBain Band.”
Then came the time to come back home. “By the time I got out of the army, the Scottish music scene was on the move and I decided to start my own band” said John. “In those early days there were many players involved before we settled into a regular outfit.” Apart from john there were the following : Adalene McLeavy (piano), John Philip (fiddle), Eileen McIntosh (accordion), Irene Dear (accordion), Willie Duthie (drums), Jimmy Boal (accordion) and Doug Proctor (bass). The band did its first broadcast in 1957. After a few changes in personnel, the front-line settled to the now familiar line-up of Douglas Muir (lead accordion), John on fiddle and Irene Dear (second accordion).
Douglas joined the band in 1960 and has been a regular ever since. In the rhythm section Doug Cargill on bass has been a regular for many years. Drummer and pianists have changed from time to time over the years but the Ellis sound always remains clear and distinctive, easily recognisable. George Boath (drums) and Chick Bonnar (piano) complete the line up.
When I asked John what he thought gave his band its sound, he was in no doubt that it was the combination of the two Ranco accordions of Douglas and Irene together with the fiddle. “Douglas Muir does all the arranging and this has been a big factor” said John.
And what about the scene today? “I think I am generally happy with the sounds being produced today” said John. “I like some of the younger bands but I feel that they should concentrate more on building up their own bands with players in their own age groups and try hard to keep them together. Changes can’t be avoided at times but these can usually be overcome. Young band leaders who recruit well-known, established players for broadcasts etc can’t really miss, but they are not creating anything new or different. One cloud on the accordion and fiddle scene, as far as I am concerned, is the emergence of the fiddle orchestras and rallies. I just hope that the young bandleaders don’t lose hope because of them.”
So far as the Highland Country Band is concerned, John is delighted with the success it has achieved and hopes to continue enjoying his music for many years to come, playing the same style that has served him so well over the years. “We like researching new material. I think that broadcasting bands have a duty to keep the standard up.” Mind you, John confesses to liking the old favourites as well.
Ovewr the years John and his band have made many fine recordings, which always seem to be in demand. The first recording was in 1967 on C.B.S. Then followed others on Emerald in 1974 and 75, Polador in 76, BBC in 77 and Lismor in 1980 and 82. A new recording is due out soon on Lismor called “Fire in the Kilt”. John tells me he has tried a blend of some old favourites together with some brand new material. Emerald are planning a re-release called “The Best of John Ellis” in the near future.
John doesn’t play quite as much these days. “there isn’t the same demand for big bands these days” he told me “but we still play many big occasions. I often augment the band by bringing Bill McNeil from Perth on saxophone and clarinet. I sometimes have problems with Club Guest Spots because Douglas Muir lives so far away but we try to make it to as many as possible.”
John feels that the success of the music scene today is in many ways due to the work of the Accordion and Fiddle Clubs, and wishes them continuing success in the future. “I also appreciate the part played by the Box and Fiddle” said John “and would like to wish all connected with the paper every success in the future.”
Fans of the Ellis sound will be pleased to know that the Band will be seen on BBC TV this year in a recording from Blair Castle in the series “The Visit”.
Judging by John’s enthusiasm during my visit, I am sure that the Highland Country Band will be around for many years to come.
Charles Duncan – An Appreciation
by Neil Rowan
The death, in October 1986, robbed the accordion world of one of its quietest yet most influential ambassadors.
Such was the modesty of Mr Duncan's own personal achievements as a player and band-leader that it is only now - despite a 20 years + association with the gentleman - that I learned of his triumphs in the Band Section of the British Championships before he decided to concentrate on the solo side of tuition.
As a teacher, I have never heard him raise his voice to a pupil and such was his enthusiasm that more often than not our half-hour session would only cease when his wife Nettie, herself an accomplished musician, told him one-and-a-half hours after we began that his supper was ready!
He had many successes at Scottish and National Championships with Junior, Senior and Virtuoso titles being won by his pupils over the years. Such was his regard on a national scale, that the authorities appointed him Great Britain's adjudicator at the 'World championships' - Coupe Mondiale. Both players and teachers alike sought his freely-given advice and to whom he always gave an honest answer - sometimes not to their liking, but the truth can hurt!
He campaigned fervently for the 'Free Bass' cause, introducing contemporary music to pupils at all levels, and laying the sound foundations upon which the reputation of the Free Bass Accordion is now being firmly established by others.
To those who knew Mr Duncan personally it was their good fortune to be able to associate with a gentleman whose insight, awareness, communicative ability to all ages and understanding of the accordion world in particular and musical world in general approached the level on genius.
Thankfully, I am one of the privileged.
Readers Letters
Sir – Just a few lines to say the £1,000 cheque was presented to Mr Alex Duguid from the Guide Dog Association offices, Glasgow, on 3rd January.
We had a ‘hang-over’ party in the Station Hotel, where 150 friends joined in with party hats, balloons, crackers and music from Jim Muir (Kippen), Robert Turner (Bannockburn) and the Recycled Youth Group + Veteran. Thank you Robert and Jim and my other friends.
Best wishes
Kirsty Bisset
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Dee Motel) –
Alnwick (Fleece Inn) – members only –
Armadale (Masonic Arms Hotel) – 5th March 87 Dianne Armstrong
Ayr (Aftongrange Hotel) – 1st March Bobby Crowe SDB
Balloch (Bell Centre, Dumbarton) – 15th Mar 87 Paddy Neary
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Beith & District (Anderson Hotel) –
Belford (Community Club) – 26th Mar 87 Supper Dance with Tommy Pringle Trio
Biggar (Clydesdale Hotel) –
Bridge of Allan (Walmer Hotel) - 29th Mar 87 Tommy Kettles & Frank Henery
Buchan (Buchaness Hotel) –
Callander (Glengarry Hotel) –
Campbeltown (Royal Hotel) – 21st Mar 87 Colin Finlayson SDB
Castle Douglas (Ernespie Hotel) – 17th Mar 87 Bobby Torrance Band
Coupar Angus (Royal Hotel) –
Crieff & District (Drummond Arms Hotel) – 5th Mar 87 Simon Howie SDB
Dalriada (Royal Hotel, Lochgilphead) –
Derwentside (Working Men’s Club, Consett) –
Dingwall (venue? ) –
Dunblane (Westlands Hotel) – 17th Mar 87 Iain MacPhail SDB
Dundee (Queen’s Hotel, Nethergate) – 5th Mar 87 Forfar Club
Dunfermline (Northern Roadhouse) –
East Kilbride (King’s Park Hotel, Rutherglen) – 26th Mar 87 The Oakbank Sound
Edinburgh (Abbey Suite, Abbey Lane) –
Ellon (Ladbroke Hotel) –
Falkirk (Park Hotel) –
Fintry (Clachan Hotel) –
Forres (Brig Motel) –
Fort William (Cruchan Hotel) – 9th Mar 87 Hebbie Gray
Galashiels (Maxwell Hotel) –
Galston (Theo’s Restaurant, Galston) –
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel – Wooler) –
Gorebridge (Rangers FC Social Club) –
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) –
Islesteps (Cargenholm Hotel) – 3rd Mar 87 Jim MacLeod SDB
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) –
Kintore (Crown Hotel) – 25th Mar 87 Gordon Pattullo
Langholm (Crown Hotel) –
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) –
Livingston (Golden Circle Hotel, Bathgate)
Lockerbie (Bluebell Hotel) -
Mauchline (The Jean Armour Restaurant) – 17th Mar 87 Tommy Walker Trio
M.A.F.I.A. (Black Bull, Milngavie) –
Montrose (Park Hotel) –
New Cumnock (Crown Hotel) –
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 30th Mar 87 Ian Holmes & Kenny Wilson
Newton St Boswells (Railway Hotel) –
North Cumbria (Howard Arms) (prev called Gretna Club) –
North East (Seafield Hotel, Keith) – 3rd Mar 87 Jennifer Forrest SDB
Oban (Park Hotel) –
Orkney ( venue?) –
Ormiston (Miners’ Welfare Social Club) – 19th Mar 87 Gordon Pattullo
Peebles (County Hotel) –
Perth (Station Hotel) – 17th Mar 87 Open Night
Premier NI (Wilson’s of Crumlin) -
Renfrew (Masonic Hall) – 10th Mar 87 Bobby Harvey Trio
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) -
Shetland (venue?) -
Stranraer (Railway Club) –
Thornhill (?)
Thurso (McKay’s Hotel) –
Turriff (Royal Oak Hotel) –
Tynedale (The Royal Hotel, Hexham) –
Wick (McKay’s Hotel) –
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Aberdeen
2. Armadale
3. Ayr
4. Banchory
5. Banff
6. Belford
7. Crieff
8. Dingwall & District
9. Dundee
10. East Kilbride
11. Forres
12. Fort William
13. Galston
14. Highland
15. Islesteps
16. Kelso
17. Kinlochsheil
18. Mauchline
19. Newtongrange
20. North East
21. Perth
22. Renfrew
23. Shetland
24. Thurso
25. Tynedale
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT SEPT 1986 (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. Buchan A&F Club
12. Callander A&F Club (
13. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
14. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980)
15. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
16. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
17. Derwentside A&F Club
18. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
19. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
20. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971)
21. Dundee & District A&F Club
22. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
23. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
24. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
25. Ellon A&F Club (
26. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
27. Fintry A&F Club
28. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
29. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
30. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
31. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
32. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
33. Highland A&F Club (Inverness)
34. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981)
35. Isle of Skye A&F Club (
36. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976)
37. Kintore A&F Club
38 Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967)
39 Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
40. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – per first edition)
41 Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973)
42 M.A.F.I.A. (early)
43 Mauchline A&F Club (first mention 1986?)
44. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
45. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1979)
46. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
47. 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)
48. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971)
49. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975)
50. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978)
51. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club
52. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981)
53. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970)
54. Premier A&F Club NI (cNov 1980)
55. Rothbury Accordion Club (1987??)
56. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978)
57. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
58. Sutherland A&F Club (
59. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition)
60. Thurso A&F Club (cSept 1981)
61. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982)
62. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980)
63. 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?)
64. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
65. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
66. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
67. Club Accord
68. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2?)
69. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
70. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
71. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
72. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
73. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
74. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
75. Gretna A&F Club (June 1966)
76. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
77. Kinlochsheil A&F Club (
78. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
79. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
80. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
81. Newcastleton Accordion Club
82. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
83. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
84. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
85. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
86. Wellbank A&F Club
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