Box and Fiddle
Year 46 No 02
November 2022
Price £3.00
40 Page Magazine
12 month UK subscription £49.45
Editor – Pia Walker, Cupar
B&F Treasurer – Scott Band
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
October is the Festival month. I do hope that someone will write something about them .…….
Pia
A Day for Derek……
by Ian Muir
Accordions, fiddles, drums, piano, moothie, whistle and vocals were all present to pay tribute to our friend and fellow musician, Derek Hamilton, who sadly passed away in April 2022. Derek was accomplished in most of the aforementioned instruments (well, maybe not the fiddle?!) and could turn his hand to help out in so many band line-ups.
A very versatile musician, he was always happy to play in his own inimitable style. He was largely self-taught, but always eager to learn from his contemporaries in the Scottish music world and beyond.
The day was hosted and organized by Mauchline & District A&F Club (run by Andy & Moira Rae) and was held in its usual venue of the Kilmarnock Supporters Club in Mauchline. Derek was an avid supporter of the A&F Club and often refused to take other gigs to provide piano accompaniment for the local players and sometimes the guests too.
Over 150 players and spectators attended, all enjoying a wonderful afternoon of music, stories and guid banter – not t mention an incredible buffet provided by Moira Rae and Eleanor Kerr; T-bone, steaks, sirloins……..sandwiches, sausage rolls and cakes.
A plethora of enthusiastic and accomplished musicians played throughout the afternoon which started at 1.30pm and finished with a grand stramash at 5.50pm!
Accordionists were, Alan Clarke, John Douglas, Stewart Faulds, Ewan Galloway, Alex & Ian Graham, Janet Graham, Marshall Harkness, Fin Hope, Jim Hutcheon, Charlie Kirkpatrick, Don MacDonald, Alasdair MacLeod, Ian Muir, Mike Murray, Sandy Nixon, Fiona Paul, Andy Philip, Gavin Pllu, Susan Power, Malcolm Rae, Allan Smith, Robin & Deryn Waitt and Dougie Watson.
Fiddle players in attendance were Graham Cooper, Alan Gifford, Andrew Knight, Shona MacFadyen and June Meikle.
Piano accompaniment was supplied by Marissa Bryce, Alex Graham, Alan Kitchen, Neil MacMillan, Billy McEwan, Cameron Muir, Fiona Paul and John Strachan.
Drummers were Duncan Burns, Ian Graham, Billy Hutton, Alex Lyle, Jock Thomson, Charlie Todd and Gordon Young.
We also had on moothie Jimmy Little, on whistle Willie Little and on vocals Linton McMillan.
The afternoon was compered jointly by Charlie Kirkpatrick and Ian Muir and a lovely speech was delivered by Derek’s son, Kevin, to thank everyone for their support. A charity box was circulated and made the grand total of £813.76 for Derek’s favourite charity, Guide Dogs for the Blind.
A fabulous afternoon of music and memories was enjoyed by all – Derek most certainly would have approved!
By Bryce Paton
It was a wet morning when we left home to travel to Mauchline to attend a memorial concert to honour one of Scotland’s unsung stars of the Scottish music and dance scene.
On our arrival in Mauchline with over an hour to spare the car park was already full. We met several friends and musicians that we knew and within a short space of time the hall was full. You could feel the buzz in the air as the start time drew near. People were talking about who might be there and how many would make it given family commitments on a Sunday.
We soon found out, when Andy Rae, Chairman of Mauchline & District A&F Club, thanked everyone for their attendance and hoped that we would enjoy our day before passing the microphone to our M.C., the ever popular Charlie Kirkpatrick.
Charlie, in his usual style, wasted no time and soon had everyone laughing before introducing our first band, The Ian Muir Sound. This was the first of many bands and musicians who had travelled from far and wide. One had ever travelled from Lewis, such was Derek’s popularity.
As the say went on and the music and the stories about Derek began to flow it was obvious that, apart from being an excellent musician and a man of many musical talents, he was also something of a comedian. A man who gave many people plenty to laugh about with his numerous antics, stories and little incidents.
The list of musicians seemed endless and we were treated to one extravaganza after another as they regaled us with some amazing sounds and tunes. The atmosphere was brilliant.
All too soon it was refreshment time and, thanks to Andy and Moira and their team of experienced bakers, tea ladies and sandwich makers, we were more than well catered for. Thanks go to all in that department.
After the short break and catch-up with friends, it was back to more excellent music from so many musicians who wanted to say thank you to Derek through music. Fun memories brought smiles and laughter about this man who gave so freely of his time and advice were shared. Charlie sometimes struggled to make himself heard over the applause and laughter from the audience when stories about Derek’s antics came to light.
Shortly before the end Ian Muir announced that Derek’s son, Kevin Hamilton, was in attendance and just before the last band played he came forward to thank everyone who had travelled to take part in the afternoon in memory of his father.
The afternoon then finished with a stramash involving all who had played throughout the afternoon as part of the 20 bands who had entertained us so well with their music and anecdotes about the man himself.
Derek would have enjoyed the afternoon, and would have commented loudly on some of the stories told!
Musical Memories – Part 23
by Denis Shepherd
………..
Centre Stage
Sarah Horne
IN MEMORY
Max Houliston – 1936 - 2022
Eulogy by Mark Jardine
Maxwell was the 4th son born to Robert and Elizabeth Houliston on the 4th of February 1936.
He was the brother of Billy, Bobby and Norman - who sadly passed away aged just 9 from complications with Diabetes.
They said the birth of Max actually brought his mother out of depression.
Max and his family grew up here at the Crichton where his father was head groundskeeper, and by all accounts he had a fun filled childhood in the Crichton community.
Max was educated at nearby Brownhall Primary where he became Dux of the School.
At the age of 10, he asked his parents for a musical instrument and allegedly he was hoping for a double base, but instead he was given an accordion from a family friend
He attended classes and actually strapped his accordion to the front of his bike before cycling across town!
Max practiced at home every day and also for events at the Crichton, - while listening with admiration to Bobby McLeod and Jimmy Shand, - whom he met of course!
After High school, Max completed his 2 years National Service at Catterick in the Signal Corps, where bizarrely, - he learned the alphabet backwards!
He continued to be able to recite it and even taught his grandchild Steven on a long train journey!
At Catterick, Max enjoyed playing in front of Military officers, -Corporate Lieutenants and their wives, and after completing his service, he formed his own band.
The first broadcast of Max Houliston and his Scottish Dance Band was in 1963, - and thereafter he recorded 10 albums and produced quite a number of broadcasts for the BBC’s ‘Take The Floor’.
Their broadcasts were noted for their lift and swing of Scottish music and the innovative band arrangements of the non-Scottish pieces.
Around this time, Max was working at Rickerby as an Engineer but his older brother Billy, - one of Scotland’s finest centre forwards and publicans introduced Max and his brother Bobby to the Scottish Brewery.
Together, Bobby and Max opened the Hole I the Wa pub in 1963, - when a pint of Pale was just one shilling and a whisky two bob.
The pub was established in 1620, and was regularly frequented by Robert Burns in his day.
Max liked to tell people he wasn’t the first publican to open the pub!
When he told his mother he was going to take on a pub she said: “I suppose that’ll do until you get a better job!”
Bobby left the pub to pursue other interests and Max began performing accordion music for the customers 5 nights a week with accompanying singers.
He placed an advertisement in the local newspaper to invite local accordion players to join him and improve their skills in front of a live audience.
This was the beginning of the first accordion and fiddle club in Scotland and today, there are over 50 clubs across the country.
One of Max’s highlights was recording one of his LP’s live from the pub in 1975.
Max met Dorothy Robertson and started courting after meeting each other at Niagara Falls whilst he was touring Canada with the Band.
They were married at the Nith Hotel in 1967 and in the following year, - they were blessed with their first child Elizabeth whilst living in Kelton.
Max loved to tell the story of driving around Glencaple in the wee small hours of the morning trying to get baby Elizabeth to sleep, only returning home to find her wide awake!
As the pub licencing hours involved closing between 2 and 5pm Max decided he needed a hobby.
Others in the area had small fishing boats, but, with the River Nith being tidal, it wasn’t always possible for him to get on the water during that small window, - so the idea of a hovercraft came to him.
His first venture was a 2 seater craft which he moored at his home in Kelton.
In 1971, Max and Dorothy’s son Alan was born and they moved into the town, - buying Chapelmount on Laurieknowe, - a historical house which he helped to renovate into their family home for over 20 years.
Max saw the potential to improve and extend the Hole I the Wa by purchasing an old garage behind the pub in which they created the lounge bar.
With Dorothy’s help, they built a kitchen and started meals - which along with accordion sing-a-longs, made the Hole in the Wa’ one of the busiest pubs in town.
Never able to sit still, Max pursued other ventures in the town which included the ever popular ‘Oughtons’, and the ‘Bandwagon,’ - before opening the Laurieknowe Leisure Centre.
At Oughtons he brought many of the stars of the day, - performing everything from pop to jazz.
All the while, - he was still composing music and playing the accordion at events.
He continued to enjoy his hobby of hovercrafts which were increasing in size and which Dorothy used to call his Hovercraft Overdraft!
He enjoyed nothing better than getting away from the businesses with his family on ventures up and down the Nith and around the Solway coast, - and many of you will remember the noise when he set off!
One of his last hovercrafts was a 20 seater which actually made an appearance in the James Bond movie Die Another Day, starring Pierce Brosnan where it was driven off a cliff in the opening scene!
That scene broke his heart, but he wasn’t done with hovercrafts just yet, as he then bought the stand in for the movie and renamed it MH 006, - with more than a nod to 007!
~
After Elizabeth emigrated to Melbourne in 1989, Max and Dorothy enjoyed holidays ‘down under’ to visit her.
On the plane over Dorothy used to joke: “Max and the pilot were the only ones wearing a collar and tie!”
They then had the delight of becoming grandparents to Andrew, Steven and Amy.
Max continued to travel annually to Australia to visit his family and he was guaranteed to have his nose burned and as bright as a beacon by day three!
Everyone used to tell Max that Australia was such a long way away, - but he used to remind them it was only a day on a plane!
His granddaughter Amy missed him so much one year that she actually flew over from Australia and surprised him with a visit.
Max then became a Papa for the 4th time when his son Alan had a son, Jack.
Sadly, Dorothy passed away very suddenly in 1998, and Max was completely devastated by the loss, but always kept her in his heart.
Max began to slow down with his business ventures but he continued to entertain people with his accordion music and dry witty sense of humour.
Indeed, he loved entertaining and supporting Dumfries Rotary Club with Tea Dances, - while he looked forward to the Friday lunches with the rest of his fellow members, - many of whom are here today.
Max was overjoyed by the arrival of grandchildren Cairn and Scott and he always said one of his highlights in the pub was playing the accordion with his granddaughter Cairn whom he had taught to play.
Scott loved to keep his papa updated on all things football, but most importantly, Queen of the South.
When Max retired from the pub, - he handed the reigns over to his son Alan and ultimately his grandson Jack.
Under their ownership, the pub continues to thrive and be one of the most popular in the town.
10 years ago, Max was recognised for his dedication to the Hole in the Wa’ when he was selected from 1,300 other publicans to receive a life time achievement award by the Heineken owned Star Pubs and Bars, - which is quite an accolade!
In 2019 Max’s daughter Elizabeth returned from Australia with her children.
He always said: “having his family together brought him so much happiness.
Elizabeth was delighted to return home to be with her father and take care of him.
Among her fond memories are taking him on outings, - to tea dances and sitting in the Crichton grounds playing his favourite music and reminiscing about his favourite times as a youngster.
His grandson Andrew had the most important job of keeping Max updated with the FTSE 100 shares!
Then last year, Max was very proud to became a great grandfather to Olivia.
His smile lit up the room and he chuckled with joy when she came to visit him.
He watched with admiration at how quickly she was growing and you often heard him say “She’s a Bonnie wee thing.”
A back injury and diabetes slowed him down in the last few years, but his love of listening to Scottish music and attending tea dances never waned.
Even in the last year he was pursuing new methods of transport, purchasing a mobility scooter, - and he found great pleasure in zooming around the Edinburgh Road and accompanying the family on dog walks!
Max is quoted as saying “he would do it all again if he had the choice to live his life over.”
…………………………………. Now that’s a life well lived.
Max’s role down here is done
Unfortunately, he couldn’t stay.
His soul has touched us all,
And he has sailed away.
We all know people arrive on earth
With special roles to fill,
And Max has fully played his part,
His memory guides us still.
His spirit touched each one of us,
Like no other ever could.
Forever we will cherish him
He was one of the truly good.
We head shortly to the High Cemetery and we ask that you take to your cars as soon as possible, as we have assistance from the police at the roundabout at the 24 hour garage.
The family extend an invitation to you all to join them at the Cairndale Hotel, - where refreshments will be served and you will all be made most welcome.
As you leave, there will be an opportunity to place a donation in memory of Max for Diabetes UK.
We are going to close our service by listening to one of Max’s favourite songs, - What a Wonderful World……….
COMMITTAL
For everything there is a season for every purpose under the sun;
A time to laugh and a time to weep;
A time to dance and a time to mourn;
A time to be born and a time to die.......
And for as much as it hath pleased Almighty God, to take unto himself the soul of our brother MAX here departed, we therefore commit his body to the ground,…………….earth to earth………….
Ashes to ashes..........and dust to dust......... in the strong hope of the resurrection to an eternal life
An honest man here lies at rest,
As ere God with his image blest,
The friend of man, the friend of truth;
The friend of age, and guide of youth;
Few hearts like his with virtue warmed,
Few heads with knowledge so informed;
If there’s another world, - he lives in bliss;
If there is none, - MAX made the best of this.
Letters to the Editor
Dear Pia
At the age of 11 I started going with my auntie to see Max play. I was then inspired to learn the accordion after much time watching Max and listening to his music.
Through the years I was lucky enough to play the only three tunes I knew in The Hole in the Wa’ with Max backing me. Later I got to cover for Max when he was away, or to start the Sunday night sing-along before he came in to play for all the singers.
It has always been so special not only to play with my idol and hero but also t be at functions etc with him.
In 2020 I started a project with Max to collate all Max’s compositions and to publish a book with them all. Max agreed for me to look into this but was of the belief that there were only a few and not enough for a book. He had also given away all the original sheet music over the years.
As I investigated, I son found more and more names of tunes. Some I have found the music for, but not all, and I am currently trying to track down recordings and broadcasts on radio and on Border TV.
I would be grateful if anyone has videos or recordings of Max and the Band at Accordion Clubs or elsewhere, or who has knowledge of specific tunes that Max Houliston has written, could contact me by phone 07715 214 556 or via e-mail at [email protected]
Furthermore, the FB page The sound of Houliston would be grateful for any photos, recordings or stories of Max and the Band.
It will take me a bit of time to complete the project, but I have assured the family that I will carry on and finish it. I hope some of your readers can help me.
Thanks again for any help and suggestions.
Lee McQueen
See Hear! with Bill Brown
CD Reviews
Live & Kicking – David Stewart SDB – DSCD002
Stronger than Before – Luthrie Lockdown – LL22001CD
Take the Floor – Saturday Evenings 19.05 – 21.00 with Gary Innes
05/11/2022 Archive Session in Tribute to Max Houliston + Perth All Scotland Senior Accordion Championship
12/11/2022 – Neil Barron SDB + 40th Anniversary Session
19/11/2022 – New – Peter Wood SDB
26/11/2022 – Repeat – Clyde Valley C.B.
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Old Machar RBL) –
Alnwick (The Jubilee Hall, Newton-on-the Moor)
Arbroath (Arbroath Artisan Golf Club) - 6th November 2022 – Scott Band
Banchory (Royal British Legion) – November 2022 -
Banff & District (The Fife Lodge Hotel) – November 2022 -
Biggar (Biggar Bowling Club) – 13th November 2022 – David Kennedy SDB
Blairgowrie (Rattray Bowling Club) - 8th November 2022 – John Morgan + AGM
Button Key (Greig Institute, Windygates) – 9th November 2022 – Sandy Nixon SDB
Campsie (Glazert Country House Hotel) - 1st November 2022 – James Coutts SDB
Canderside (Stonehouse Bowling Club) - 10th November 2022 – Stewart Cameron Trio
Carlisle (St Margaret Mary Social Club) - 10th November 2022 - tbc
Castle Douglas (Threave Rovers Football Club) – 8th November 2022 – Alex Ross
Clydesdale (St Mary’s Club Rooms, Lanark) - November 2022 – no meeting
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 27th November 2022 – Richard smith Duo
Crieff & District (British Legion) 3rd November 2022 – Iain MacPhail SDB
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 2nd November 2022 – Ewan Galloway Trio
Dunblane (Victoria Hall) – 16th November 2022 – Alasdair MacLeod SDB
Dunfermline (Masonic Hall, Rosyth) – 8th November 2022 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Dumfries (Crichton Royal Golf Club) - 1st November 2022 – Iain Anderson Duo
Forfar (Forfar RBL) - 27th November 2022 – Dave Husband Trio
Forres (Forres Golf Club) – 14th November 2022 – Glencraig SDB
Galashiels (Clovenfords Hotel) - 3rd November 2022 – Matthew MacLennan Trio
Glendale (The Glendale Hall, Wooler) - 24th November 2022 – Wayne Robertson & Malcolm Ross
Glenfarg (Glenfarg Village Hall) - 2nd November 2022 – John Stuart SDB
Glenrothes (Queen Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) - 29th November 2022 – Leonard Brown
Gretna (The Richard Greenhow Centre) - 6th November 2022 – Gary Blair
Hidden Toun (Haddington Bowling Club) - 13th November 2022 – Steven Carcary & Malcolm Ross
Highland (Waterside Hotel) – 21st November 2022 – Lindsay Weir Duo
Inveraray (Inveraray Inn) - 9th November 2022 – Ian Anderson Trio
Isle of Skye – (The Royal Hotel, Portree) - 3rd November 2022 – Addie Harper Band
Kelso (Kelso Rugby Club) – 30th November 2022 – Marian Anderson SDB
Langholm (Langholm Social Club) – November 2022 -
Lewis & Harris (Caladh Inn, Stornoway) - 18th November 2022 - tbc
Macmerry (Miners Social Club) - 27th November 2022 – Duncan Black
Mauchline (Harry Lyle Suite, Mauchline & District Kilmarnock FC Supporters Club) - 15th November 2022 – Leonard Brown & Malcolm Ross
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 2nd November 2022 – Leonard Brown & Malcolm Ross
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 28th November 2022 – Leonard Broan
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – November 2022 -
Oban (The Royal Hotel ) – 3rd November 2022 – Robert Nairn
Orkney (The Reel, Kirkwall) – November 2022 -
Peebles (Rugby Social Club) – 24th November 2022 – John & Muriel Morgan
Perth & District (Salutation Hotel) – 13th November 2022 - Hjaltibonhoga
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) - November 2022 -
Seghill (Old Comrades Club) - 1st 8th 15th 22nd 29th November 2022 – Club Nights
Shetland (Shetland Hotel, Lerwick) - 10th November 2022 – Club Night
Sutherland (Rogart Village Hall) – 12th November 2022 – James Corbett CB
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – November 2022 -
TMSA (Aberdeen) – Sportmans Club - 15th Nov 2022 – Session 27th November 2022 – St Andrews Ceilidh
Turriff (Royal British Legion, Fyvie) – 3rd November 2022 – Leonard Brown Duo
Tynedale (Tynedale Farmers Function Suite) – 17th November 2022 – Graeme whitehead
Uist & Benbecula (C of S Hall, Griminish) - 12th & 26th November 2022 - tbc
Wick (MacKay’s Hotel) – 15th November 2022 – Susie Simpson Trio
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Blairgowrie
2. Buttonkey
3. Campsie
4. Castle Douglas
5. Coalburn
6. Dingwall & District
7. Dumfries
8. Dunblane
9. Forfar
10. Forres
11. Glenfarg
12. Kelso
13. Lewis & Harris
14. North East
15. Shetland
16. Turriff & District
17. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT DEC 2022
(Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Aug 1975 – present)
3. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
4. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
5. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
6. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
7. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
8. Button Key A&F Club (
9. Campsie A&F Club (Nov 95 – present)
10. Canderside A&F Club (Stonehouse) (Feb 2019 – present)
11. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
12. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
13. Clydesdale A&F Club (Sept 2016 – present)
14. Coalburn A&F Club (
15. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
16. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
17. Dumfries A&F Club (1965 renamed Islesteps Jan 1981 – 2021 then back to Dumfries)
18. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
19. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
20. Forfar A&F Club (1984 – present)
21. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
22. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
23. Glendale A&F Club (Jan 1973 – present)
24. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
25. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Gretna when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
26. Hidden Toun A&F (Haddington) (Jan 2022 – present)
27. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
28. Inveraray A&F Club (Feb 1991 - present)
29. Isle of Skye A&F Club (June 1983 – present)
30. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
31. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
32. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 – present)
33. Macmerry A&F Club (Feb 2016 – present)
34. Mauchline A&F Club (Sept 1983 - present)
35. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
36. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
37. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
38. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
39. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
40. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
41. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
42. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
43. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
44 Sutherland A&F Club (Nov 1982 - ?
45 Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
46 Turriff A&F Club (1st April 1982 - present)
47 Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
48 Uist & Benbecula A&F Club (Dec 2007 but formed 1994 -
49 Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership, closed due to Covid or omitted in error?)
50. Annan A&F Club (joined Assoc in 1996 but started 1985 – Covid 19 – March 2020)
51. Araharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
52. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Last meeting May 2010
53. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
54. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – restarted ? till Covid 19 in March 2020)
55. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
56. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
57. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
58. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
59. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
60. Britannia B&F Club (joined 07-08 but much older
61. Bromley A&F Club (joined 95-96 – closed early 08-09)
62. Buchan A&F Club
63. Callander A&F Club (
64. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980 – 1997?)
65. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
66. Club Accord
67. Coldingham A&F Club (Nov 2008 – cFeb 2014)
68 Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
69. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
70. Crathes (aka Scottish Accordion Music – Crathes) (Nov 1997 -
71. Cults A & F Club (
72. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
73. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981 - ?)
74. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
75. Derwentside A&F Club
76. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
77. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughton’s) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
78. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
79. Dundee & District A&F Club (January 1971 – 1995?)
80. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
81. Duns A&F Club (formed 20th Sept 04 – April 2020 – Covid19)
82. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980 – Closed 04/05)
83. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
84. Ellon A&F Club (1984 – April 2020 Covid19)
85. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
86. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – ?)
87. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F - later The Railway Club, Inverlochy )
88. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
89. Glasgow A&F Club (Aug 2017 – March 2018)
90. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93? – left the Assoc c2013)
91. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
92. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
93. Haddington A&F Club (formed Feb 2005 – 6th December 2015)
94. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
95. Kintore A&F Club (
96. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
97. Ladybank A&F Club (joined Apr 98 but formed earlier -
98. Lanark A&F Club (joined Sept 96 – closed March 2015)
99. Lauder A&F Club (May 2010 -
100. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
101. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – March 2020 - Covid)
102. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 – Covid 19 – March 2020)
103. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
104. Maine Valley A&F Club (
105. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
106. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
107. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
108. Mull A&F Club
109. Newcastleton Accordion Club
110. Newburgh A&F Club (joined 2002 but founded much earlier – closed April 2011 when venue closed)
111. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
112. Newmill-on-Teviot (Hawick) (Formed late 1988 joined Assoc 1999 - closed March 2016)
113. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
114. Northern A&F Club (Sept 2011 -
115. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
116. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
117. Phoenix A&F Club, Ardrishaig (Dec 2004 -
118. Reading Scottish Fiddlers (cMarch 1997
119. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984 – closed at Covid 19 in March 2020)
120. Selkirk A&F Club (
121. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 – closed 20000/01?)
122. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
123. Stonehouse A&F Club (Opened 2003 - first report June 05 – Closed April 2018)
124. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
125 Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
126. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
127. Tranent A&F Club
128. Vancouver Fiddle Orchestra
129. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
130. Wellbank A&F Club
131. West Barnes (1981? - April 2016?)
132. Yarrow (prev known as Etterick & Yarrow) (Jan 1989 – closed 2001/02)
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B&F Treasurer – Scott Band
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
October is the Festival month. I do hope that someone will write something about them .…….
Pia
A Day for Derek……
by Ian Muir
Accordions, fiddles, drums, piano, moothie, whistle and vocals were all present to pay tribute to our friend and fellow musician, Derek Hamilton, who sadly passed away in April 2022. Derek was accomplished in most of the aforementioned instruments (well, maybe not the fiddle?!) and could turn his hand to help out in so many band line-ups.
A very versatile musician, he was always happy to play in his own inimitable style. He was largely self-taught, but always eager to learn from his contemporaries in the Scottish music world and beyond.
The day was hosted and organized by Mauchline & District A&F Club (run by Andy & Moira Rae) and was held in its usual venue of the Kilmarnock Supporters Club in Mauchline. Derek was an avid supporter of the A&F Club and often refused to take other gigs to provide piano accompaniment for the local players and sometimes the guests too.
Over 150 players and spectators attended, all enjoying a wonderful afternoon of music, stories and guid banter – not t mention an incredible buffet provided by Moira Rae and Eleanor Kerr; T-bone, steaks, sirloins……..sandwiches, sausage rolls and cakes.
A plethora of enthusiastic and accomplished musicians played throughout the afternoon which started at 1.30pm and finished with a grand stramash at 5.50pm!
Accordionists were, Alan Clarke, John Douglas, Stewart Faulds, Ewan Galloway, Alex & Ian Graham, Janet Graham, Marshall Harkness, Fin Hope, Jim Hutcheon, Charlie Kirkpatrick, Don MacDonald, Alasdair MacLeod, Ian Muir, Mike Murray, Sandy Nixon, Fiona Paul, Andy Philip, Gavin Pllu, Susan Power, Malcolm Rae, Allan Smith, Robin & Deryn Waitt and Dougie Watson.
Fiddle players in attendance were Graham Cooper, Alan Gifford, Andrew Knight, Shona MacFadyen and June Meikle.
Piano accompaniment was supplied by Marissa Bryce, Alex Graham, Alan Kitchen, Neil MacMillan, Billy McEwan, Cameron Muir, Fiona Paul and John Strachan.
Drummers were Duncan Burns, Ian Graham, Billy Hutton, Alex Lyle, Jock Thomson, Charlie Todd and Gordon Young.
We also had on moothie Jimmy Little, on whistle Willie Little and on vocals Linton McMillan.
The afternoon was compered jointly by Charlie Kirkpatrick and Ian Muir and a lovely speech was delivered by Derek’s son, Kevin, to thank everyone for their support. A charity box was circulated and made the grand total of £813.76 for Derek’s favourite charity, Guide Dogs for the Blind.
A fabulous afternoon of music and memories was enjoyed by all – Derek most certainly would have approved!
By Bryce Paton
It was a wet morning when we left home to travel to Mauchline to attend a memorial concert to honour one of Scotland’s unsung stars of the Scottish music and dance scene.
On our arrival in Mauchline with over an hour to spare the car park was already full. We met several friends and musicians that we knew and within a short space of time the hall was full. You could feel the buzz in the air as the start time drew near. People were talking about who might be there and how many would make it given family commitments on a Sunday.
We soon found out, when Andy Rae, Chairman of Mauchline & District A&F Club, thanked everyone for their attendance and hoped that we would enjoy our day before passing the microphone to our M.C., the ever popular Charlie Kirkpatrick.
Charlie, in his usual style, wasted no time and soon had everyone laughing before introducing our first band, The Ian Muir Sound. This was the first of many bands and musicians who had travelled from far and wide. One had ever travelled from Lewis, such was Derek’s popularity.
As the say went on and the music and the stories about Derek began to flow it was obvious that, apart from being an excellent musician and a man of many musical talents, he was also something of a comedian. A man who gave many people plenty to laugh about with his numerous antics, stories and little incidents.
The list of musicians seemed endless and we were treated to one extravaganza after another as they regaled us with some amazing sounds and tunes. The atmosphere was brilliant.
All too soon it was refreshment time and, thanks to Andy and Moira and their team of experienced bakers, tea ladies and sandwich makers, we were more than well catered for. Thanks go to all in that department.
After the short break and catch-up with friends, it was back to more excellent music from so many musicians who wanted to say thank you to Derek through music. Fun memories brought smiles and laughter about this man who gave so freely of his time and advice were shared. Charlie sometimes struggled to make himself heard over the applause and laughter from the audience when stories about Derek’s antics came to light.
Shortly before the end Ian Muir announced that Derek’s son, Kevin Hamilton, was in attendance and just before the last band played he came forward to thank everyone who had travelled to take part in the afternoon in memory of his father.
The afternoon then finished with a stramash involving all who had played throughout the afternoon as part of the 20 bands who had entertained us so well with their music and anecdotes about the man himself.
Derek would have enjoyed the afternoon, and would have commented loudly on some of the stories told!
Musical Memories – Part 23
by Denis Shepherd
………..
Centre Stage
Sarah Horne
IN MEMORY
Max Houliston – 1936 - 2022
Eulogy by Mark Jardine
Maxwell was the 4th son born to Robert and Elizabeth Houliston on the 4th of February 1936.
He was the brother of Billy, Bobby and Norman - who sadly passed away aged just 9 from complications with Diabetes.
They said the birth of Max actually brought his mother out of depression.
Max and his family grew up here at the Crichton where his father was head groundskeeper, and by all accounts he had a fun filled childhood in the Crichton community.
Max was educated at nearby Brownhall Primary where he became Dux of the School.
At the age of 10, he asked his parents for a musical instrument and allegedly he was hoping for a double base, but instead he was given an accordion from a family friend
He attended classes and actually strapped his accordion to the front of his bike before cycling across town!
Max practiced at home every day and also for events at the Crichton, - while listening with admiration to Bobby McLeod and Jimmy Shand, - whom he met of course!
After High school, Max completed his 2 years National Service at Catterick in the Signal Corps, where bizarrely, - he learned the alphabet backwards!
He continued to be able to recite it and even taught his grandchild Steven on a long train journey!
At Catterick, Max enjoyed playing in front of Military officers, -Corporate Lieutenants and their wives, and after completing his service, he formed his own band.
The first broadcast of Max Houliston and his Scottish Dance Band was in 1963, - and thereafter he recorded 10 albums and produced quite a number of broadcasts for the BBC’s ‘Take The Floor’.
Their broadcasts were noted for their lift and swing of Scottish music and the innovative band arrangements of the non-Scottish pieces.
Around this time, Max was working at Rickerby as an Engineer but his older brother Billy, - one of Scotland’s finest centre forwards and publicans introduced Max and his brother Bobby to the Scottish Brewery.
Together, Bobby and Max opened the Hole I the Wa pub in 1963, - when a pint of Pale was just one shilling and a whisky two bob.
The pub was established in 1620, and was regularly frequented by Robert Burns in his day.
Max liked to tell people he wasn’t the first publican to open the pub!
When he told his mother he was going to take on a pub she said: “I suppose that’ll do until you get a better job!”
Bobby left the pub to pursue other interests and Max began performing accordion music for the customers 5 nights a week with accompanying singers.
He placed an advertisement in the local newspaper to invite local accordion players to join him and improve their skills in front of a live audience.
This was the beginning of the first accordion and fiddle club in Scotland and today, there are over 50 clubs across the country.
One of Max’s highlights was recording one of his LP’s live from the pub in 1975.
Max met Dorothy Robertson and started courting after meeting each other at Niagara Falls whilst he was touring Canada with the Band.
They were married at the Nith Hotel in 1967 and in the following year, - they were blessed with their first child Elizabeth whilst living in Kelton.
Max loved to tell the story of driving around Glencaple in the wee small hours of the morning trying to get baby Elizabeth to sleep, only returning home to find her wide awake!
As the pub licencing hours involved closing between 2 and 5pm Max decided he needed a hobby.
Others in the area had small fishing boats, but, with the River Nith being tidal, it wasn’t always possible for him to get on the water during that small window, - so the idea of a hovercraft came to him.
His first venture was a 2 seater craft which he moored at his home in Kelton.
In 1971, Max and Dorothy’s son Alan was born and they moved into the town, - buying Chapelmount on Laurieknowe, - a historical house which he helped to renovate into their family home for over 20 years.
Max saw the potential to improve and extend the Hole I the Wa by purchasing an old garage behind the pub in which they created the lounge bar.
With Dorothy’s help, they built a kitchen and started meals - which along with accordion sing-a-longs, made the Hole in the Wa’ one of the busiest pubs in town.
Never able to sit still, Max pursued other ventures in the town which included the ever popular ‘Oughtons’, and the ‘Bandwagon,’ - before opening the Laurieknowe Leisure Centre.
At Oughtons he brought many of the stars of the day, - performing everything from pop to jazz.
All the while, - he was still composing music and playing the accordion at events.
He continued to enjoy his hobby of hovercrafts which were increasing in size and which Dorothy used to call his Hovercraft Overdraft!
He enjoyed nothing better than getting away from the businesses with his family on ventures up and down the Nith and around the Solway coast, - and many of you will remember the noise when he set off!
One of his last hovercrafts was a 20 seater which actually made an appearance in the James Bond movie Die Another Day, starring Pierce Brosnan where it was driven off a cliff in the opening scene!
That scene broke his heart, but he wasn’t done with hovercrafts just yet, as he then bought the stand in for the movie and renamed it MH 006, - with more than a nod to 007!
~
After Elizabeth emigrated to Melbourne in 1989, Max and Dorothy enjoyed holidays ‘down under’ to visit her.
On the plane over Dorothy used to joke: “Max and the pilot were the only ones wearing a collar and tie!”
They then had the delight of becoming grandparents to Andrew, Steven and Amy.
Max continued to travel annually to Australia to visit his family and he was guaranteed to have his nose burned and as bright as a beacon by day three!
Everyone used to tell Max that Australia was such a long way away, - but he used to remind them it was only a day on a plane!
His granddaughter Amy missed him so much one year that she actually flew over from Australia and surprised him with a visit.
Max then became a Papa for the 4th time when his son Alan had a son, Jack.
Sadly, Dorothy passed away very suddenly in 1998, and Max was completely devastated by the loss, but always kept her in his heart.
Max began to slow down with his business ventures but he continued to entertain people with his accordion music and dry witty sense of humour.
Indeed, he loved entertaining and supporting Dumfries Rotary Club with Tea Dances, - while he looked forward to the Friday lunches with the rest of his fellow members, - many of whom are here today.
Max was overjoyed by the arrival of grandchildren Cairn and Scott and he always said one of his highlights in the pub was playing the accordion with his granddaughter Cairn whom he had taught to play.
Scott loved to keep his papa updated on all things football, but most importantly, Queen of the South.
When Max retired from the pub, - he handed the reigns over to his son Alan and ultimately his grandson Jack.
Under their ownership, the pub continues to thrive and be one of the most popular in the town.
10 years ago, Max was recognised for his dedication to the Hole in the Wa’ when he was selected from 1,300 other publicans to receive a life time achievement award by the Heineken owned Star Pubs and Bars, - which is quite an accolade!
In 2019 Max’s daughter Elizabeth returned from Australia with her children.
He always said: “having his family together brought him so much happiness.
Elizabeth was delighted to return home to be with her father and take care of him.
Among her fond memories are taking him on outings, - to tea dances and sitting in the Crichton grounds playing his favourite music and reminiscing about his favourite times as a youngster.
His grandson Andrew had the most important job of keeping Max updated with the FTSE 100 shares!
Then last year, Max was very proud to became a great grandfather to Olivia.
His smile lit up the room and he chuckled with joy when she came to visit him.
He watched with admiration at how quickly she was growing and you often heard him say “She’s a Bonnie wee thing.”
A back injury and diabetes slowed him down in the last few years, but his love of listening to Scottish music and attending tea dances never waned.
Even in the last year he was pursuing new methods of transport, purchasing a mobility scooter, - and he found great pleasure in zooming around the Edinburgh Road and accompanying the family on dog walks!
Max is quoted as saying “he would do it all again if he had the choice to live his life over.”
…………………………………. Now that’s a life well lived.
Max’s role down here is done
Unfortunately, he couldn’t stay.
His soul has touched us all,
And he has sailed away.
We all know people arrive on earth
With special roles to fill,
And Max has fully played his part,
His memory guides us still.
His spirit touched each one of us,
Like no other ever could.
Forever we will cherish him
He was one of the truly good.
We head shortly to the High Cemetery and we ask that you take to your cars as soon as possible, as we have assistance from the police at the roundabout at the 24 hour garage.
The family extend an invitation to you all to join them at the Cairndale Hotel, - where refreshments will be served and you will all be made most welcome.
As you leave, there will be an opportunity to place a donation in memory of Max for Diabetes UK.
We are going to close our service by listening to one of Max’s favourite songs, - What a Wonderful World……….
COMMITTAL
For everything there is a season for every purpose under the sun;
A time to laugh and a time to weep;
A time to dance and a time to mourn;
A time to be born and a time to die.......
And for as much as it hath pleased Almighty God, to take unto himself the soul of our brother MAX here departed, we therefore commit his body to the ground,…………….earth to earth………….
Ashes to ashes..........and dust to dust......... in the strong hope of the resurrection to an eternal life
An honest man here lies at rest,
As ere God with his image blest,
The friend of man, the friend of truth;
The friend of age, and guide of youth;
Few hearts like his with virtue warmed,
Few heads with knowledge so informed;
If there’s another world, - he lives in bliss;
If there is none, - MAX made the best of this.
Letters to the Editor
Dear Pia
At the age of 11 I started going with my auntie to see Max play. I was then inspired to learn the accordion after much time watching Max and listening to his music.
Through the years I was lucky enough to play the only three tunes I knew in The Hole in the Wa’ with Max backing me. Later I got to cover for Max when he was away, or to start the Sunday night sing-along before he came in to play for all the singers.
It has always been so special not only to play with my idol and hero but also t be at functions etc with him.
In 2020 I started a project with Max to collate all Max’s compositions and to publish a book with them all. Max agreed for me to look into this but was of the belief that there were only a few and not enough for a book. He had also given away all the original sheet music over the years.
As I investigated, I son found more and more names of tunes. Some I have found the music for, but not all, and I am currently trying to track down recordings and broadcasts on radio and on Border TV.
I would be grateful if anyone has videos or recordings of Max and the Band at Accordion Clubs or elsewhere, or who has knowledge of specific tunes that Max Houliston has written, could contact me by phone 07715 214 556 or via e-mail at [email protected]
Furthermore, the FB page The sound of Houliston would be grateful for any photos, recordings or stories of Max and the Band.
It will take me a bit of time to complete the project, but I have assured the family that I will carry on and finish it. I hope some of your readers can help me.
Thanks again for any help and suggestions.
Lee McQueen
See Hear! with Bill Brown
CD Reviews
Live & Kicking – David Stewart SDB – DSCD002
Stronger than Before – Luthrie Lockdown – LL22001CD
Take the Floor – Saturday Evenings 19.05 – 21.00 with Gary Innes
05/11/2022 Archive Session in Tribute to Max Houliston + Perth All Scotland Senior Accordion Championship
12/11/2022 – Neil Barron SDB + 40th Anniversary Session
19/11/2022 – New – Peter Wood SDB
26/11/2022 – Repeat – Clyde Valley C.B.
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Old Machar RBL) –
Alnwick (The Jubilee Hall, Newton-on-the Moor)
Arbroath (Arbroath Artisan Golf Club) - 6th November 2022 – Scott Band
Banchory (Royal British Legion) – November 2022 -
Banff & District (The Fife Lodge Hotel) – November 2022 -
Biggar (Biggar Bowling Club) – 13th November 2022 – David Kennedy SDB
Blairgowrie (Rattray Bowling Club) - 8th November 2022 – John Morgan + AGM
Button Key (Greig Institute, Windygates) – 9th November 2022 – Sandy Nixon SDB
Campsie (Glazert Country House Hotel) - 1st November 2022 – James Coutts SDB
Canderside (Stonehouse Bowling Club) - 10th November 2022 – Stewart Cameron Trio
Carlisle (St Margaret Mary Social Club) - 10th November 2022 - tbc
Castle Douglas (Threave Rovers Football Club) – 8th November 2022 – Alex Ross
Clydesdale (St Mary’s Club Rooms, Lanark) - November 2022 – no meeting
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 27th November 2022 – Richard smith Duo
Crieff & District (British Legion) 3rd November 2022 – Iain MacPhail SDB
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 2nd November 2022 – Ewan Galloway Trio
Dunblane (Victoria Hall) – 16th November 2022 – Alasdair MacLeod SDB
Dunfermline (Masonic Hall, Rosyth) – 8th November 2022 – Charlie Kirkpatrick Trio
Dumfries (Crichton Royal Golf Club) - 1st November 2022 – Iain Anderson Duo
Forfar (Forfar RBL) - 27th November 2022 – Dave Husband Trio
Forres (Forres Golf Club) – 14th November 2022 – Glencraig SDB
Galashiels (Clovenfords Hotel) - 3rd November 2022 – Matthew MacLennan Trio
Glendale (The Glendale Hall, Wooler) - 24th November 2022 – Wayne Robertson & Malcolm Ross
Glenfarg (Glenfarg Village Hall) - 2nd November 2022 – John Stuart SDB
Glenrothes (Queen Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) - 29th November 2022 – Leonard Brown
Gretna (The Richard Greenhow Centre) - 6th November 2022 – Gary Blair
Hidden Toun (Haddington Bowling Club) - 13th November 2022 – Steven Carcary & Malcolm Ross
Highland (Waterside Hotel) – 21st November 2022 – Lindsay Weir Duo
Inveraray (Inveraray Inn) - 9th November 2022 – Ian Anderson Trio
Isle of Skye – (The Royal Hotel, Portree) - 3rd November 2022 – Addie Harper Band
Kelso (Kelso Rugby Club) – 30th November 2022 – Marian Anderson SDB
Langholm (Langholm Social Club) – November 2022 -
Lewis & Harris (Caladh Inn, Stornoway) - 18th November 2022 - tbc
Macmerry (Miners Social Club) - 27th November 2022 – Duncan Black
Mauchline (Harry Lyle Suite, Mauchline & District Kilmarnock FC Supporters Club) - 15th November 2022 – Leonard Brown & Malcolm Ross
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 2nd November 2022 – Leonard Brown & Malcolm Ross
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 28th November 2022 – Leonard Broan
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – November 2022 -
Oban (The Royal Hotel ) – 3rd November 2022 – Robert Nairn
Orkney (The Reel, Kirkwall) – November 2022 -
Peebles (Rugby Social Club) – 24th November 2022 – John & Muriel Morgan
Perth & District (Salutation Hotel) – 13th November 2022 - Hjaltibonhoga
Rothbury (Queen’s Head Hotel) - November 2022 -
Seghill (Old Comrades Club) - 1st 8th 15th 22nd 29th November 2022 – Club Nights
Shetland (Shetland Hotel, Lerwick) - 10th November 2022 – Club Night
Sutherland (Rogart Village Hall) – 12th November 2022 – James Corbett CB
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – November 2022 -
TMSA (Aberdeen) – Sportmans Club - 15th Nov 2022 – Session 27th November 2022 – St Andrews Ceilidh
Turriff (Royal British Legion, Fyvie) – 3rd November 2022 – Leonard Brown Duo
Tynedale (Tynedale Farmers Function Suite) – 17th November 2022 – Graeme whitehead
Uist & Benbecula (C of S Hall, Griminish) - 12th & 26th November 2022 - tbc
Wick (MacKay’s Hotel) – 15th November 2022 – Susie Simpson Trio
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Blairgowrie
2. Buttonkey
3. Campsie
4. Castle Douglas
5. Coalburn
6. Dingwall & District
7. Dumfries
8. Dunblane
9. Forfar
10. Forres
11. Glenfarg
12. Kelso
13. Lewis & Harris
14. North East
15. Shetland
16. Turriff & District
17. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT DEC 2022
(Clubs didn’t necessarily notify the Assoc when they closed so the following may not be entirely correct. Only the clubs submitting the reports or in the Club Diary above were definitely open.)
1. Aberdeen A&F Club (1975 – present)
2. Alnwick A&F Club (Aug 1975 – present)
3. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
4. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
5. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
6. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
7. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
8. Button Key A&F Club (
9. Campsie A&F Club (Nov 95 – present)
10. Canderside A&F Club (Stonehouse) (Feb 2019 – present)
11. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
12. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
13. Clydesdale A&F Club (Sept 2016 – present)
14. Coalburn A&F Club (
15. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
16. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
17. Dumfries A&F Club (1965 renamed Islesteps Jan 1981 – 2021 then back to Dumfries)
18. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
19. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
20. Forfar A&F Club (1984 – present)
21. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
22. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
23. Glendale A&F Club (Jan 1973 – present)
24. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
25. Gretna A&F Club (1991) Known as North Cumbria A&F Club previously (originally called Gretna when started in June 1966 but later had to move to venues in the North of England and changed name. No breaks in the continuity of the Club)
26. Hidden Toun A&F (Haddington) (Jan 2022 – present)
27. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
28. Inveraray A&F Club (Feb 1991 - present)
29. Isle of Skye A&F Club (June 1983 – present)
30. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
31. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
32. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 – present)
33. Macmerry A&F Club (Feb 2016 – present)
34. Mauchline A&F Club (Sept 1983 - present)
35. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
36. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
37. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
38. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
39. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
40. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
41. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
42. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
43. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
44 Sutherland A&F Club (Nov 1982 - ?
45 Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
46 Turriff A&F Club (1st April 1982 - present)
47 Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
48 Uist & Benbecula A&F Club (Dec 2007 but formed 1994 -
49 Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership, closed due to Covid or omitted in error?)
50. Annan A&F Club (joined Assoc in 1996 but started 1985 – Covid 19 – March 2020)
51. Araharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
52. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Last meeting May 2010
53. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
54. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – restarted ? till Covid 19 in March 2020)
55. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
56. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
57. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
58. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
59. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
60. Britannia B&F Club (joined 07-08 but much older
61. Bromley A&F Club (joined 95-96 – closed early 08-09)
62. Buchan A&F Club
63. Callander A&F Club (
64. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980 – 1997?)
65. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
66. Club Accord
67. Coldingham A&F Club (Nov 2008 – cFeb 2014)
68 Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
69. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
70. Crathes (aka Scottish Accordion Music – Crathes) (Nov 1997 -
71. Cults A & F Club (
72. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
73. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981 - ?)
74. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
75. Derwentside A&F Club
76. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
77. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughton’s) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
78. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
79. Dundee & District A&F Club (January 1971 – 1995?)
80. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
81. Duns A&F Club (formed 20th Sept 04 – April 2020 – Covid19)
82. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980 – Closed 04/05)
83. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
84. Ellon A&F Club (1984 – April 2020 Covid19)
85. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
86. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – ?)
87. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F - later The Railway Club, Inverlochy )
88. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
89. Glasgow A&F Club (Aug 2017 – March 2018)
90. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93? – left the Assoc c2013)
91. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
92. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
93. Haddington A&F Club (formed Feb 2005 – 6th December 2015)
94. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
95. Kintore A&F Club (
96. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
97. Ladybank A&F Club (joined Apr 98 but formed earlier -
98. Lanark A&F Club (joined Sept 96 – closed March 2015)
99. Lauder A&F Club (May 2010 -
100. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
101. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – March 2020 - Covid)
102. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 – Covid 19 – March 2020)
103. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
104. Maine Valley A&F Club (
105. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
106. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
107. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
108. Mull A&F Club
109. Newcastleton Accordion Club
110. Newburgh A&F Club (joined 2002 but founded much earlier – closed April 2011 when venue closed)
111. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
112. Newmill-on-Teviot (Hawick) (Formed late 1988 joined Assoc 1999 - closed March 2016)
113. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
114. Northern A&F Club (Sept 2011 -
115. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
116. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
117. Phoenix A&F Club, Ardrishaig (Dec 2004 -
118. Reading Scottish Fiddlers (cMarch 1997
119. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984 – closed at Covid 19 in March 2020)
120. Selkirk A&F Club (
121. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 – closed 20000/01?)
122. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
123. Stonehouse A&F Club (Opened 2003 - first report June 05 – Closed April 2018)
124. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
125 Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
126. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
127. Tranent A&F Club
128. Vancouver Fiddle Orchestra
129. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
130. Wellbank A&F Club
131. West Barnes (1981? - April 2016?)
132. Yarrow (prev known as Etterick & Yarrow) (Jan 1989 – closed 2001/02)
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