Box and Fiddle
Year 25 No 02
October 2001
Price £1.75
44 Page Magazine
6 month subscription £13.70
Editor – Karin Ingram, Hawick
B&F Treasurer – Charlie Todd, Thankerton
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
Well, the postman is cursing me this month! What with the guest artiste forms and subscriptions as well as Club Reports and photos, he’s dropped about 50 letters a day into my post bin! He thinks I’m the most popular person in the valley!
In the past few weeks we have been saddened to learn of the deaths of two A&F club stalwarts – Alex Little and Jimmy Ritchie. Our sympathies go to their families. There is an obituary to Alex on Page 14, and next month’s issue will carry an article about Jimmy.
You will see we have updated the Guest Artiste List. Don’t panic if your favourite artiste’s name isn’t on it! Not everyone has had time yet to send in their details. We will be publishing a list again next month, so if you would like your name included please contact me at the usual address. A list is also now on our website.
I will be doing a lot of work on the web over the next couple of weeks. Some of our Guest Artistes have asked for pages on our site, so that’s what I’ll be concentrating on.
All Box and Fiddle articles, adverts, queries or payments should now come to myself. Due to family commitments, Sandra has had to take a back seat for a while. All of us on the B&F Sub Committee are greatly indebted to her for all the hard work she put in over the last year.
Please keep your articles, Club reports and photographs coming in. Remember this is your magazine, without your contributions it would be meaningless.
We have a packed issue again this month, with articles from Jim Balneaves, Maggie Smith and Sandy Tulloch to name but three ‘well-kent’ faces.
Big thank-yous to Nicol and Charlie for their infinite patience, and to proof reader Alison Riddell who finds most of my mistakes!
Several of our articles including the one about the Traditional Music Degree course at the R.S.A.M.D. are being held over until,next month. We shall also be introducing some regular columnists – with widely differing views!
Karin Ingram
Mickie Ainsworth
by Jim Balneaves
Mickie Ainsworth was brought up in Auchterarder, Perthshire, and was determined, from an early age, to play the accordion. The result of this determination was that he had to practice in a byre – as the noise was not tolerated in the house! “The cows never objected, to the best of my knowledge,” says Mickie. At the age of 18 Mickie formed a group in Auchterarder known as ‘The Skyliners’. This was a modern band, as jazz was his first love. He was at the same time apprenticed to be a painter.
Mickie moved to Perth when he was 21, and teamed up with Al Waters (a Senior Scottish Championship winner in the early days of the Wilkie Festival). He was now playing mostly Scottish Dance Music. He followed this by joining the Jack Guthrie Band for a short period. Mickie then became a member of the Angus Fitchet Band, which included Jimmy Stephen, and Mickie states, “I learned a great deal playing with Angus and Jimmy.”
The Fitchet Band played throughout the Borders and Northumberland. The band was a 5-piece for gigs, and this was augmented to a 6-piece for broadcasts. Mickie was 2½ years with Angus’s Band.
Ian Powrie then approached Mickie, with a view to him joining the Powrie Band. The carrot that Ian dangled was, “That TV appearances are likely.”
This of course proved to be true, as the Powrie Band appeared many times on ‘The White Heather Club’ and others.
The band personnel during the TV appearance period were : Ian Powrie (fiddle), Jimmy Blue (Shand Morino), Pam Brough (piano), Dave Barclay (double bass), Arthur Easson (drums) and Mickie on piani accordion.
Jimmy Blue and Mickie also became well-known accordion duettists, and are particularly remembered for ‘Band Boys’ (a German tune originally). The writer recalls that the last time he heard Band Boys live was at the Perth Club’s 21st Birthday Party in 1991. It was mooted at Jimmy’s 70th Birthday Party in 1999, but drink had been taken, so it did not materialize. Mickie enjoyed Band Boys, but he personally preferred The Beer Barrel Polka Duet.
During Mickie’s time with the Powrie Band they twice toured Australia and New Zealand with Andy Stewart. Mickie started recording initially in 1949. He recorded on many Ian Powrie Band LPs, and as a duettist with Jimmy Blue.
The recordings were under the control of producer George Martin (now Sir George) who was later to become famous as The Beatles record producer.
Mickie also toured America and Canada with Jimmy Blue in 1967.
Mickie then left the full-time playing scene to become a sales representative with Hohner Accordions. His area was all of Scotland and south to a line across from York. If you asked what he did at that time, he answered “Drive a car.”
Mickie’s part-time playing included a period in The Salutation Hotel, Perth, with our mutual friend, fiddler Jim Brown of Kintillo, Bridge of Earn. Stephane Grappelli visited one Saturday night when Mickie and Jim were playing, and he was extremely pleased with the sound and blending of accordion and fiddle.
Mickie and Jim also played at The Grange Hotel, Balbeggie, on Sunday afternoons – this was a very popular venue. Mull and Tighnabruaich etc were also visited along with accordionist Ian Cameron (of Pomander Jig fame). Jazz sessions on piano at Murrayshall Hotel, Scone, were also undertaken in the early eighties.
Mickie has been involved with the Bill Wilkie Festival from the beginning, and it is now in its 52nd year. Mickie started by turning the music in the classical section, then leading the accordion band, and he has been compere of the all-day competitions in The City Hall for the last 30 years.
Mickie is now 71 years old, still goes out to play, and teaches the accordion – which in the words of his grand-daughter makes him, “A pretty cool Grandad for an old duffer.”
Newtongrange Competitions
by Margaret Smith
Sunday, 8th April
All roads led to the Dean Tavern for the ….
Graham Laurie Paisley Accordion Orchestra
Canadian Tour 2001
By Tom Allan
Friday 29th June
16.40 hrs. A party of 24 people from the Graham Laurie Paisley Accordion Orchestra………
A Grand Day Out
The United Kingdom Accordion Championships
Scarborough 5th/6th May 2001
by Charlie Todd
For a number of years now the Spa complex, located on Scarborough’s South Bay, has played host to the UK Accordion Championships. This year competitors displayed their talents in 55 categories spread over 5 venues, namely
The Grand Hall
The Regency Room
The Spa Theatre
The Vitadome and
The Ocean Ballroom,
All more or less under the one roof, together with adequate refreshment and catering facilities. Despite my Yorkshire inspired ‘Wallace and Gromit’ title above the competitions actually last all day Saturday and most of the following morning when many of the Scottish traditional sections, which are quite well represented, take place.
On the subject of ‘well represented’ it’s worth mentioning that at least four Schools of Music from north of the Border are enthusiastic supporters of these Championships, namely those of Brian Laurie, Graham Laurie, Keith Dickson and Jean and Ronnie Brown. Many other Scottish competitors appear under their own steam and here I’ll perhaps mention two – namely ace 5-row accordionist from Edinburgh Jan Kowalski and ex Borderer Paul chamberlain, presently domiciled in Manchester but taking lessons from ex World champion Djordie Gajic, in Glasgow – you can work out the logistics of that one for yourself.
Friday evening sees an informal gathering in the Ocean Ballroom with entertainment provided by Gina and Romany Rye but with everyone else welcome to take the stage. Inevitably with competitions starting at 9.00 a.m. the following day this is a low-key affair.
On Saturday you are spoilt for choice with the various classes, virtuoso, solo, entertainment, duet, group, showband and orchestra all taking place. Saturday evening is given over to the first round of prize-giving followed by a ceilidh in the very capable hands of the Gary Blair Trio namely, Gary, Richard Wong and at the back Stevie Burns (who I note is also on the back rank of the Grade 1 ‘Strathclyde Police Pipe Band’). The cabaret spot was taken by KODA – Keith Dickson’s senior orchestra.
My first surprise was that the Ocean Ballroom was packed to capacity – and it’s a big place. As a first timer at this event I had expected a rater tame affair with half the tables emptying after the prize-giving and the remainder trickling away as the night wore on. Gary’s playing and patter kept the dance floor full up until it was time to hand over to KODA and their half hour spot, which lasted fully an hour with encores, practically lifted the roof off – the atmosphere was truly electric. There are ever rumours of mass emigration from the Emerald Isle to Dolphinton because this is what young Irish accordionists want to play. Anyway, with KODA finally allowed to leave the stage it was back to Gary for the final thundering hour to take us up to 1 a.m. (at which point, of course, Scots and Irish retreat back to their darkened lairs, talk about Celtic music, get their boxes out and have a tune for what’s left of the night).
Sunday morning gets off to a slow start due to sleepy heids and sair heids but gradually momentum picks up for the final round of competitions, Scottish, polka and musette followed by more prizes, a vote of thanks and final goodbyes. The final results for the weekend reveal a good showing for the Scottish contingent but I haven’t space to list all the results (my new boss/Editor is such a misery) and if I try to be selective I’ll end up offending someone so I’ll just say well done to everyone who took the time and trouble to participate whether you were on that list or not.
One of the benefits of the location of this event, Scarborough, is that for those not interested in spending all their time listening there is much else on offer in the shape of excellent shopping facilities, a stroll along the Prom or a leisurely walk around the Victorian part of the town. There’s plenty of accommodation available, with the tourist season not fully up and running.
Alex Little - Obituary
by Max Houliston
A respected and familiar figure in Scottish music circles will be sadly missed when Alex Little passed away peacefully at Dumfries Infirmary on 16th August, 2001, aged 73 years.
Alex was a valued Committee member of the N.A.A.F.C. and, indeed, he was “instrumental in co-founding the totally new concept of an Accordion Club and introduced the first ever Club Night of its kind at The Hole I’ the Wa’, Dumfries in 1965. He served on the Committee and as MC at the Musselburgh Accordion and Fiddle Festival for over 20 years, visited the Shetland Isle competitions on numerous occasions to act as compere, regularly attended the Clubs at Langholm, Gretna, Lockerbie and Islesteps and formed his own Club in the village of Torthorwald (near Dumfries) for a time, encouraging local players and those from farther afield to come along and entertain.
‘Distance no object!’ could have been his motto – during the Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh he made the round trip from Dumfries on 14 nights in a row to take part in the ceilidhs arranged for the competitors and visitors from around the world. He was always in great demand and also took part in BBC programmes along with Robbie Shepherd at various music festivals across the country.
In his hometown of Dumfries, Alex was a popular ‘weel-kent’ face and willingly gave of his time and talent on a regular basis to bring a bit of cheer and goodwill to residential homes and also at many local events. An all-round entertainer – singer, raconteur and compere – in 1994 he was honoured by Dumfries Regional Council with an award to mark his substantial contribution to entertainment in the area and beyond.
St Mary’s Church in Dumfries was filled to capacity when his family and many friends from both far and near gathered to bid farewell to this larger than life character! Alex Little’s unique personality will be much missed by all who knew him, and our sympathy is extended to his daughter, Margo, son-in-law, John, and his grand-children Hazel and David.
Happy 25th Birthday, Wick
by Jim Collie
The Allan McIntosh Band were providing the music for our 25th Anniversary Ceilidh and consisted of Allan on lead accordion, Ricki Franci on second box, Jim Clark on piano, and our very own drummer ‘fae Week’ Willie Lyall. They broke us in gently with an old time waltz, gradually moving up a gear or two to The Dashing White Sergeant to really get everyone moving. All in all a very good dancing crowd, but of course with the standard of playing from the band who could remain seated?
A good rousing Strip the Willow took us up to buffet time, beautifully prepared by the staff at Mackays. A lovely celebration cake baked an decorated by Committee member Irene MacKay was cut by founder Chairman Bobby Coghill and his wife Mairi. The wine to accompany the cake was donated by present Chairman Bill MacKay and his wife Isla. Mairi Coghill drew the raffle with the prizes donated by the Committee and Club members.
A Committee photo was taken and hopefully it will be in ‘memorabilia corner’ for the 50th. There was a good display of photos, Club mementos and other various items taken in by members and it brought much interest from the company.
A few drams were downed in the course of our celebrations. The night (with many more dances) was very much enjoyed by all, and I am sure will be recalled by many well into the next 25 years!
Twenty-five successful years must be attributed to many people. The dedication of our local players, a good working Committee, an excellent venue and the loyalty of our audience. Thank you all.
Take the Floor – Saturdays with Robbie Shepherd
6th Oct 01 – Archie McVicar Trio + feature on Calvin Vollrath
13th Oct 01 – Fergie MacDonald – OB from the Mod in Stornoway
20th Oct 01 – Kenny Thomson & the Wardlaw SDB
27th Oct 01 – Jimmy Lindsay SDB - + feature on The Glendaruel Band
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Westburn Park Lounge) – 30th Oct 01 – The Reel Thing
Alnwick (The Farrier’s Arms – Shilbottle)
Annan (St Andrew’s Social Club) - 21st Oct 01 – Garioch Blend
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 7th Oct 01 – Ian Cruickshanks SDB
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 4th Oct 01 – Give Way
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Church Hall) – 21st Oct 01 – John Renton SDB
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 24th Oct 01 – Wayne Robertson SDB
Beith & District (Anderson Hotel) – 15th Oct 01 – Colin Garvin
Belford (Community Centre) –
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 14th Oct 01 – Richard Smith & Friends
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 9th Oct 01 – Lomond Ceilidh Band
Bromley (Trinity United Reform Church) - 9th Oct 01 – Ian McKenzie
Button Key (Windygates Institute) – 11th Oct 01 – Fraser McGlynn Duo
Campsie (Glazert Country House Hotel) - 2nd Oct 01 – Jimmy Cassidy
Carlisle (St Margaret Mary’s Social Club) - 4th Oct 01 – Archie Duncan
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Country House Hotel) – 16th Oct 01 – Jim McDonald Duo
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 18th Oct 01 – Richard Smith & Friends
Crathes (Crathes Hall, Banchory) - 14th Oct 01 – All players welcome
Crieff & District (Crieff Hotel) 4th Oct 01 – Allan McIntosh Trio
Cults (Culter Sports & Social Club) 10th Oct 01 - tbc
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead) 16th Oct 01 – Michael Garvin Trio
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 3rd Oct 01 – Colin Dewar Trio
Dunblane (Victoria Hall) – 17th Oct 01 – Ian Cruickshanks SDB
Dunfermline (Headwell Bowling Club) – 9th Oct 01 – Gavin Piper
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Torrance Hotel) – 25th Oct 01 – Gordon Pattullo
Ellon (Station Hotel) – 23rd Oct 01 – Marian Anderson SDB
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 22nd Oct 01 – West Telferton SDB
Forfar (Plough Inn) -
Forres (Victoria Hotel) – 10th Oct 01 – Jean McConnachie Sound
Galashiels (Abbotsford Arms Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) – 8th Oct 01 – Sandy Legget Trio 29th Oct 01 – Jack Emblow (joint night with Mauchline Club)
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel, Wooler) – 18th Oct 01 – Stuart Adamson SDB
Glenfarg (Lomond Hotel) - 3rd Oct 01 – Patsy Reid Duo
Glenrothes (Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) - 30th Oct 01 – Johnny Duncan
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 7th Oct 01 – Iain Lockhart
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 15th Oct 01 – John Ellis SDB
Inveraray (Argyll Hotel) - 10th Oct 01 - tbc
Isle of Skye – (The Royal Hotel, Portree) - 4th Oct 01 – Sandy Legget Trio
Islesteps (The Embassy Hotel) – 2nd Oct 01 – Donald MacLeod Trio
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 31st Oct 01 – Seamus O’Sullivan
Kintore (Torryburn Hotel) – 3rd Oct 01 – Scott Gordon Trio
Lanark (Ravenstruther Hall) - 22nd Oct 01 – Jimmy Cassidy
Langholm (Crown Hotel) – 10th Oct 01 – Ian Muir
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 11th Oct 01 – Gary Blair Duo
Lewis & Harris (Stornoway Legion) - 4th Oct 01 – Angus MacPhail Trio 18th Oct 01 – Dance to Allan McIntosh
Livingston (Hilcroft Hotel, Whitburn) 16th Oct 01 – Raymond Carse
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) - 30th Oct 01 – David Scott Band
Mauchline (Harry Lyle Suite) - 16th Oct 01 – James Coutts Trio
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 3rd Oct 01 – Marian Anderson SDB
Newmill-on-Teviot (Newmill Country Inn) - 3rd Oct 01 – Nicol McLaren SDB
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 29th Oct 01 – Raymond Carse
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – 2nd Oct 01 – 30th Birthday Ceilidh with Dick Black
Oban (McTavish’s Kitchen) –
Orkney (Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) –
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 16th Oct 01 – Donald McLeod 27th Oct 01 – Dance to Graeme Mitchell (After the Festival)
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) - 2nd Oct 01 – Bill Black SDB
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 9th Oct 01 – Andrew Gordon Trio
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) - 4th Oct 01 – Alister Wood Band
Selkirk (Cricket Club) - 11th Oct 01 – Reel Thing
Shetland (Shetland Hotel, Lerwick) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) -
Sutherland (Rogart Hall) -
Thornhill (Masonic Hall) - 10th Oct 01 – Liam Stewart Duo
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 1st Oct 01 – John Morgan
Turriff (Royal British Legion) – 4th Oct 01 – Garioch blend
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) – 18th Oct 01 – Dick Black Band
Wick (MacKay’s Hotel) –
Yarrow (Gordon Arms) - 17th Oct 01 – Marian Anderson SDB
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Alnwick & District
2. Annan
3. Banchory
4. Banff & District
5. Beith & District
6. Biggar
7. Blairgowrie
8. Button Key
9. Campsie
10. Crathes
11. Crieff & District
12. Dingwall & District
13. Dunblane
14. Dunfermline & District
15. Dunoon & Cowal
16. Ellon
17. Forres
18. Gretna
19. Inveraray
20. Islesteps
21. Lesmahagow
22. Lewis & Harris
23. Montrose
24. Newmill (on-Teviot)
25. North East
26. Premier
27. Renfrew
28. Thornhill
29. Thurso
30. Turriff & district
31. Tynedale
32. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT OCT 1999
(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. Annan A&F Club (joined Assoc in 1996 but started 1985 – present)
4. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
5. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Closed
6. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
7. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
8. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
9. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
10. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
11. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
12. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
13. Bromley A&F Club
14. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Campbeltown A&F Club (
16. Campsie A&F Club (Nov 95 – present)
17. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
18. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
19. Coalburn A&F Club (
20. Crathes (aka Scottish Accordion Music – Crathes) (Nov 1997 -
21. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
22. Cults A & F Club (
23. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
24. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
25. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
26. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
27. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
28. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
29. Ellon A&F Club (
30. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – present)
31. Forfar A&F Club (
32. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
33. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
34. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
35. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
36. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
37. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93?
38. 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)
39. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
40. Inveraray A&F Club (Feb 1991 - present)
41. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
42. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
43. Isle of Skye A&F Club (June 1983 – present)
44. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
45. Kintore A&F Club (
46. Ladybank A&F Club (joined Apr 98 but formed
47. Lanark A&F Club (joined Sept 96 – present)
48. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
49. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
50. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 -
51. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
52. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
53. Mauchline A&F Club (Sept 1983 - present)
54. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
55. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
56. Newmill-on-Teviot (Hawick) (Formed late 1988 joined Assoc 1999
57. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
58. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
59. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
60. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
61. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
62. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
63. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
64. Renfrew A&F Club (1984 -
65. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
66. Selkirk A&F Club (
67. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
68. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
69. Sutherland A&F Club (
70. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
71. Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
72. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
73. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
74. Vancouver
75. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
76. Yarrow (prev known as Etterick & Yarrow) (Jan 1989 – )
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
77. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
78. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
79. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
80. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
81. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
82. Buchan A&F Club
83. Callander A&F Club (
84. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
85. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
86. Club Accord
87. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
88. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
89. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
90. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
91. Derwentside A&F Club
92. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
93. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
94. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
95. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? – 1995?)
96. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
97. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
98. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
99. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
100. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
101. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
102. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
103. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
104. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
105. Mull A&F Club
106. Newcastleton Accordion Club
107. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
108. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
109. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
110. Reading Scottish Fiddlers (cMarch 1997
111. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
112. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
113. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
114. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
115. Tranent A&F Club
116. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
117. Wellbank A&F Club
Advertising rates
Full Page - £120
Half Page - £60
Quarter Page - £30
B&F Treasurer – Charlie Todd, Thankerton
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
Well, the postman is cursing me this month! What with the guest artiste forms and subscriptions as well as Club Reports and photos, he’s dropped about 50 letters a day into my post bin! He thinks I’m the most popular person in the valley!
In the past few weeks we have been saddened to learn of the deaths of two A&F club stalwarts – Alex Little and Jimmy Ritchie. Our sympathies go to their families. There is an obituary to Alex on Page 14, and next month’s issue will carry an article about Jimmy.
You will see we have updated the Guest Artiste List. Don’t panic if your favourite artiste’s name isn’t on it! Not everyone has had time yet to send in their details. We will be publishing a list again next month, so if you would like your name included please contact me at the usual address. A list is also now on our website.
I will be doing a lot of work on the web over the next couple of weeks. Some of our Guest Artistes have asked for pages on our site, so that’s what I’ll be concentrating on.
All Box and Fiddle articles, adverts, queries or payments should now come to myself. Due to family commitments, Sandra has had to take a back seat for a while. All of us on the B&F Sub Committee are greatly indebted to her for all the hard work she put in over the last year.
Please keep your articles, Club reports and photographs coming in. Remember this is your magazine, without your contributions it would be meaningless.
We have a packed issue again this month, with articles from Jim Balneaves, Maggie Smith and Sandy Tulloch to name but three ‘well-kent’ faces.
Big thank-yous to Nicol and Charlie for their infinite patience, and to proof reader Alison Riddell who finds most of my mistakes!
Several of our articles including the one about the Traditional Music Degree course at the R.S.A.M.D. are being held over until,next month. We shall also be introducing some regular columnists – with widely differing views!
Karin Ingram
Mickie Ainsworth
by Jim Balneaves
Mickie Ainsworth was brought up in Auchterarder, Perthshire, and was determined, from an early age, to play the accordion. The result of this determination was that he had to practice in a byre – as the noise was not tolerated in the house! “The cows never objected, to the best of my knowledge,” says Mickie. At the age of 18 Mickie formed a group in Auchterarder known as ‘The Skyliners’. This was a modern band, as jazz was his first love. He was at the same time apprenticed to be a painter.
Mickie moved to Perth when he was 21, and teamed up with Al Waters (a Senior Scottish Championship winner in the early days of the Wilkie Festival). He was now playing mostly Scottish Dance Music. He followed this by joining the Jack Guthrie Band for a short period. Mickie then became a member of the Angus Fitchet Band, which included Jimmy Stephen, and Mickie states, “I learned a great deal playing with Angus and Jimmy.”
The Fitchet Band played throughout the Borders and Northumberland. The band was a 5-piece for gigs, and this was augmented to a 6-piece for broadcasts. Mickie was 2½ years with Angus’s Band.
Ian Powrie then approached Mickie, with a view to him joining the Powrie Band. The carrot that Ian dangled was, “That TV appearances are likely.”
This of course proved to be true, as the Powrie Band appeared many times on ‘The White Heather Club’ and others.
The band personnel during the TV appearance period were : Ian Powrie (fiddle), Jimmy Blue (Shand Morino), Pam Brough (piano), Dave Barclay (double bass), Arthur Easson (drums) and Mickie on piani accordion.
Jimmy Blue and Mickie also became well-known accordion duettists, and are particularly remembered for ‘Band Boys’ (a German tune originally). The writer recalls that the last time he heard Band Boys live was at the Perth Club’s 21st Birthday Party in 1991. It was mooted at Jimmy’s 70th Birthday Party in 1999, but drink had been taken, so it did not materialize. Mickie enjoyed Band Boys, but he personally preferred The Beer Barrel Polka Duet.
During Mickie’s time with the Powrie Band they twice toured Australia and New Zealand with Andy Stewart. Mickie started recording initially in 1949. He recorded on many Ian Powrie Band LPs, and as a duettist with Jimmy Blue.
The recordings were under the control of producer George Martin (now Sir George) who was later to become famous as The Beatles record producer.
Mickie also toured America and Canada with Jimmy Blue in 1967.
Mickie then left the full-time playing scene to become a sales representative with Hohner Accordions. His area was all of Scotland and south to a line across from York. If you asked what he did at that time, he answered “Drive a car.”
Mickie’s part-time playing included a period in The Salutation Hotel, Perth, with our mutual friend, fiddler Jim Brown of Kintillo, Bridge of Earn. Stephane Grappelli visited one Saturday night when Mickie and Jim were playing, and he was extremely pleased with the sound and blending of accordion and fiddle.
Mickie and Jim also played at The Grange Hotel, Balbeggie, on Sunday afternoons – this was a very popular venue. Mull and Tighnabruaich etc were also visited along with accordionist Ian Cameron (of Pomander Jig fame). Jazz sessions on piano at Murrayshall Hotel, Scone, were also undertaken in the early eighties.
Mickie has been involved with the Bill Wilkie Festival from the beginning, and it is now in its 52nd year. Mickie started by turning the music in the classical section, then leading the accordion band, and he has been compere of the all-day competitions in The City Hall for the last 30 years.
Mickie is now 71 years old, still goes out to play, and teaches the accordion – which in the words of his grand-daughter makes him, “A pretty cool Grandad for an old duffer.”
Newtongrange Competitions
by Margaret Smith
Sunday, 8th April
All roads led to the Dean Tavern for the ….
Graham Laurie Paisley Accordion Orchestra
Canadian Tour 2001
By Tom Allan
Friday 29th June
16.40 hrs. A party of 24 people from the Graham Laurie Paisley Accordion Orchestra………
A Grand Day Out
The United Kingdom Accordion Championships
Scarborough 5th/6th May 2001
by Charlie Todd
For a number of years now the Spa complex, located on Scarborough’s South Bay, has played host to the UK Accordion Championships. This year competitors displayed their talents in 55 categories spread over 5 venues, namely
The Grand Hall
The Regency Room
The Spa Theatre
The Vitadome and
The Ocean Ballroom,
All more or less under the one roof, together with adequate refreshment and catering facilities. Despite my Yorkshire inspired ‘Wallace and Gromit’ title above the competitions actually last all day Saturday and most of the following morning when many of the Scottish traditional sections, which are quite well represented, take place.
On the subject of ‘well represented’ it’s worth mentioning that at least four Schools of Music from north of the Border are enthusiastic supporters of these Championships, namely those of Brian Laurie, Graham Laurie, Keith Dickson and Jean and Ronnie Brown. Many other Scottish competitors appear under their own steam and here I’ll perhaps mention two – namely ace 5-row accordionist from Edinburgh Jan Kowalski and ex Borderer Paul chamberlain, presently domiciled in Manchester but taking lessons from ex World champion Djordie Gajic, in Glasgow – you can work out the logistics of that one for yourself.
Friday evening sees an informal gathering in the Ocean Ballroom with entertainment provided by Gina and Romany Rye but with everyone else welcome to take the stage. Inevitably with competitions starting at 9.00 a.m. the following day this is a low-key affair.
On Saturday you are spoilt for choice with the various classes, virtuoso, solo, entertainment, duet, group, showband and orchestra all taking place. Saturday evening is given over to the first round of prize-giving followed by a ceilidh in the very capable hands of the Gary Blair Trio namely, Gary, Richard Wong and at the back Stevie Burns (who I note is also on the back rank of the Grade 1 ‘Strathclyde Police Pipe Band’). The cabaret spot was taken by KODA – Keith Dickson’s senior orchestra.
My first surprise was that the Ocean Ballroom was packed to capacity – and it’s a big place. As a first timer at this event I had expected a rater tame affair with half the tables emptying after the prize-giving and the remainder trickling away as the night wore on. Gary’s playing and patter kept the dance floor full up until it was time to hand over to KODA and their half hour spot, which lasted fully an hour with encores, practically lifted the roof off – the atmosphere was truly electric. There are ever rumours of mass emigration from the Emerald Isle to Dolphinton because this is what young Irish accordionists want to play. Anyway, with KODA finally allowed to leave the stage it was back to Gary for the final thundering hour to take us up to 1 a.m. (at which point, of course, Scots and Irish retreat back to their darkened lairs, talk about Celtic music, get their boxes out and have a tune for what’s left of the night).
Sunday morning gets off to a slow start due to sleepy heids and sair heids but gradually momentum picks up for the final round of competitions, Scottish, polka and musette followed by more prizes, a vote of thanks and final goodbyes. The final results for the weekend reveal a good showing for the Scottish contingent but I haven’t space to list all the results (my new boss/Editor is such a misery) and if I try to be selective I’ll end up offending someone so I’ll just say well done to everyone who took the time and trouble to participate whether you were on that list or not.
One of the benefits of the location of this event, Scarborough, is that for those not interested in spending all their time listening there is much else on offer in the shape of excellent shopping facilities, a stroll along the Prom or a leisurely walk around the Victorian part of the town. There’s plenty of accommodation available, with the tourist season not fully up and running.
Alex Little - Obituary
by Max Houliston
A respected and familiar figure in Scottish music circles will be sadly missed when Alex Little passed away peacefully at Dumfries Infirmary on 16th August, 2001, aged 73 years.
Alex was a valued Committee member of the N.A.A.F.C. and, indeed, he was “instrumental in co-founding the totally new concept of an Accordion Club and introduced the first ever Club Night of its kind at The Hole I’ the Wa’, Dumfries in 1965. He served on the Committee and as MC at the Musselburgh Accordion and Fiddle Festival for over 20 years, visited the Shetland Isle competitions on numerous occasions to act as compere, regularly attended the Clubs at Langholm, Gretna, Lockerbie and Islesteps and formed his own Club in the village of Torthorwald (near Dumfries) for a time, encouraging local players and those from farther afield to come along and entertain.
‘Distance no object!’ could have been his motto – during the Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh he made the round trip from Dumfries on 14 nights in a row to take part in the ceilidhs arranged for the competitors and visitors from around the world. He was always in great demand and also took part in BBC programmes along with Robbie Shepherd at various music festivals across the country.
In his hometown of Dumfries, Alex was a popular ‘weel-kent’ face and willingly gave of his time and talent on a regular basis to bring a bit of cheer and goodwill to residential homes and also at many local events. An all-round entertainer – singer, raconteur and compere – in 1994 he was honoured by Dumfries Regional Council with an award to mark his substantial contribution to entertainment in the area and beyond.
St Mary’s Church in Dumfries was filled to capacity when his family and many friends from both far and near gathered to bid farewell to this larger than life character! Alex Little’s unique personality will be much missed by all who knew him, and our sympathy is extended to his daughter, Margo, son-in-law, John, and his grand-children Hazel and David.
Happy 25th Birthday, Wick
by Jim Collie
The Allan McIntosh Band were providing the music for our 25th Anniversary Ceilidh and consisted of Allan on lead accordion, Ricki Franci on second box, Jim Clark on piano, and our very own drummer ‘fae Week’ Willie Lyall. They broke us in gently with an old time waltz, gradually moving up a gear or two to The Dashing White Sergeant to really get everyone moving. All in all a very good dancing crowd, but of course with the standard of playing from the band who could remain seated?
A good rousing Strip the Willow took us up to buffet time, beautifully prepared by the staff at Mackays. A lovely celebration cake baked an decorated by Committee member Irene MacKay was cut by founder Chairman Bobby Coghill and his wife Mairi. The wine to accompany the cake was donated by present Chairman Bill MacKay and his wife Isla. Mairi Coghill drew the raffle with the prizes donated by the Committee and Club members.
A Committee photo was taken and hopefully it will be in ‘memorabilia corner’ for the 50th. There was a good display of photos, Club mementos and other various items taken in by members and it brought much interest from the company.
A few drams were downed in the course of our celebrations. The night (with many more dances) was very much enjoyed by all, and I am sure will be recalled by many well into the next 25 years!
Twenty-five successful years must be attributed to many people. The dedication of our local players, a good working Committee, an excellent venue and the loyalty of our audience. Thank you all.
Take the Floor – Saturdays with Robbie Shepherd
6th Oct 01 – Archie McVicar Trio + feature on Calvin Vollrath
13th Oct 01 – Fergie MacDonald – OB from the Mod in Stornoway
20th Oct 01 – Kenny Thomson & the Wardlaw SDB
27th Oct 01 – Jimmy Lindsay SDB - + feature on The Glendaruel Band
CLUB DIARY
Aberdeen (Westburn Park Lounge) – 30th Oct 01 – The Reel Thing
Alnwick (The Farrier’s Arms – Shilbottle)
Annan (St Andrew’s Social Club) - 21st Oct 01 – Garioch Blend
Arbroath (Viewfield Hotel) - 7th Oct 01 – Ian Cruickshanks SDB
Armadale (Masonic Hall) – 4th Oct 01 – Give Way
Balloch (St. Kessog’s Church Hall) – 21st Oct 01 – John Renton SDB
Banchory (Burnett Arms Hotel) –
Banff & District (Banff Springs Hotel) – 24th Oct 01 – Wayne Robertson SDB
Beith & District (Anderson Hotel) – 15th Oct 01 – Colin Garvin
Belford (Community Centre) –
Biggar (Municipal Hall) – 14th Oct 01 – Richard Smith & Friends
Blairgowrie (Moorfield Hotel) - 9th Oct 01 – Lomond Ceilidh Band
Bromley (Trinity United Reform Church) - 9th Oct 01 – Ian McKenzie
Button Key (Windygates Institute) – 11th Oct 01 – Fraser McGlynn Duo
Campsie (Glazert Country House Hotel) - 2nd Oct 01 – Jimmy Cassidy
Carlisle (St Margaret Mary’s Social Club) - 4th Oct 01 – Archie Duncan
Castle Douglas (Urr Valley Country House Hotel) – 16th Oct 01 – Jim McDonald Duo
Coalburn (Miners’ Welfare) - 18th Oct 01 – Richard Smith & Friends
Crathes (Crathes Hall, Banchory) - 14th Oct 01 – All players welcome
Crieff & District (Crieff Hotel) 4th Oct 01 – Allan McIntosh Trio
Cults (Culter Sports & Social Club) 10th Oct 01 - tbc
Dalriada (Argyll Arms Hotel, Lochgilphead) 16th Oct 01 – Michael Garvin Trio
Dingwall (National Hotel) – 3rd Oct 01 – Colin Dewar Trio
Dunblane (Victoria Hall) – 17th Oct 01 – Ian Cruickshanks SDB
Dunfermline (Headwell Bowling Club) – 9th Oct 01 – Gavin Piper
Dunoon & Cowal (McColl’s Hotel)
East Kilbride (Torrance Hotel) – 25th Oct 01 – Gordon Pattullo
Ellon (Station Hotel) – 23rd Oct 01 – Marian Anderson SDB
Fintry (Fintry Sports Centre) – 22nd Oct 01 – West Telferton SDB
Forfar (Plough Inn) -
Forres (Victoria Hotel) – 10th Oct 01 – Jean McConnachie Sound
Galashiels (Abbotsford Arms Hotel) –
Galston (Barr Castle Social Club) – 8th Oct 01 – Sandy Legget Trio 29th Oct 01 – Jack Emblow (joint night with Mauchline Club)
Glendale (Black Bull Hotel, Wooler) – 18th Oct 01 – Stuart Adamson SDB
Glenfarg (Lomond Hotel) - 3rd Oct 01 – Patsy Reid Duo
Glenrothes (Victoria Hall, Coaltown of Balgownie) - 30th Oct 01 – Johnny Duncan
Gretna (Halcrow Stadium) - 7th Oct 01 – Iain Lockhart
Highland (Drumossie Hotel) – 15th Oct 01 – John Ellis SDB
Inveraray (Argyll Hotel) - 10th Oct 01 - tbc
Isle of Skye – (The Royal Hotel, Portree) - 4th Oct 01 – Sandy Legget Trio
Islesteps (The Embassy Hotel) – 2nd Oct 01 – Donald MacLeod Trio
Kelso (Ednam House Hotel) – 31st Oct 01 – Seamus O’Sullivan
Kintore (Torryburn Hotel) – 3rd Oct 01 – Scott Gordon Trio
Lanark (Ravenstruther Hall) - 22nd Oct 01 – Jimmy Cassidy
Langholm (Crown Hotel) – 10th Oct 01 – Ian Muir
Lesmahagow (Masonic Hall) – 11th Oct 01 – Gary Blair Duo
Lewis & Harris (Stornoway Legion) - 4th Oct 01 – Angus MacPhail Trio 18th Oct 01 – Dance to Allan McIntosh
Livingston (Hilcroft Hotel, Whitburn) 16th Oct 01 – Raymond Carse
Lockerbie (Queen’s Hotel) - 30th Oct 01 – David Scott Band
Mauchline (Harry Lyle Suite) - 16th Oct 01 – James Coutts Trio
Montrose (Park Hotel) – 3rd Oct 01 – Marian Anderson SDB
Newmill-on-Teviot (Newmill Country Inn) - 3rd Oct 01 – Nicol McLaren SDB
Newtongrange (Dean Tavern) – 29th Oct 01 – Raymond Carse
North East (Royal British Legion, Keith) – 2nd Oct 01 – 30th Birthday Ceilidh with Dick Black
Oban (McTavish’s Kitchen) –
Orkney (Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall) –
Peebles (Green Tree Hotel) –
Perth (Salutation Hotel) – 16th Oct 01 – Donald McLeod 27th Oct 01 – Dance to Graeme Mitchell (After the Festival)
Premier NI (Camlin Function Rooms) - 2nd Oct 01 – Bill Black SDB
Renfrew (Masonic Hall, Broadloan) – 9th Oct 01 – Andrew Gordon Trio
Rothbury (Queen’s Head) - 4th Oct 01 – Alister Wood Band
Selkirk (Cricket Club) - 11th Oct 01 – Reel Thing
Shetland (Shetland Hotel, Lerwick) -
Stirling (Terraces Hotel) -
Sutherland (Rogart Hall) -
Thornhill (Masonic Hall) - 10th Oct 01 – Liam Stewart Duo
Thurso (Pentland Hotel) – 1st Oct 01 – John Morgan
Turriff (Royal British Legion) – 4th Oct 01 – Garioch blend
Tynedale (Hexham Ex Service Club) – 18th Oct 01 – Dick Black Band
Wick (MacKay’s Hotel) –
Yarrow (Gordon Arms) - 17th Oct 01 – Marian Anderson SDB
THERE WERE CLUB REPORTS FROM :-
1. Alnwick & District
2. Annan
3. Banchory
4. Banff & District
5. Beith & District
6. Biggar
7. Blairgowrie
8. Button Key
9. Campsie
10. Crathes
11. Crieff & District
12. Dingwall & District
13. Dunblane
14. Dunfermline & District
15. Dunoon & Cowal
16. Ellon
17. Forres
18. Gretna
19. Inveraray
20. Islesteps
21. Lesmahagow
22. Lewis & Harris
23. Montrose
24. Newmill (on-Teviot)
25. North East
26. Premier
27. Renfrew
28. Thornhill
29. Thurso
30. Turriff & district
31. Tynedale
32. Wick
CLUB DIRECTORY AS AT OCT 1999
(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. Annan A&F Club (joined Assoc in 1996 but started 1985 – present)
4. Arbroath A&F Club (1991? – present)
5. Armadale A&F Club (Oct 1978? or 80) originally called Bathgate Club (for 2 months) Closed
6. Balloch A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per January 1978 issue – present)
7. Banchory A&F Club (1978 – present)
8. Banff & District A&F Club (Oct 1973 – present)
9. Beith & District A&F Club (Sept 1972 – per first edition – present)
10. Belford A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
11. Biggar A&F Club (Oct 1974 – present)
12. Blairgowrie A&F Club (
13. Bromley A&F Club
14. Button Key A&F Club (
15. Campbeltown A&F Club (
16. Campsie A&F Club (Nov 95 – present)
17. Carlisle A&F Club (joined Sept 1993 -
18. Castle Douglas A&F Club (c Sept 1980 – present)
19. Coalburn A&F Club (
20. Crathes (aka Scottish Accordion Music – Crathes) (Nov 1997 -
21. Crieff A&F Club (cSept 1981)
22. Cults A & F Club (
23. Dalriada A&F Club (Feb 1981)
24. Dingwall & District A&F Club (May 1979 – per first report)
25. Dunblane & District A&F Club (1971 – present)
26. Dunfermline & District A&F Club (1974 – per first edition)
27. Dunoon & Cowal A&F Club (
28. East Kilbride A&F Club (Sept 1980)
29. Ellon A&F Club (
30. Fintry A&F Club (Dec 1972 – reformed Jan 1980 – present)
31. Forfar A&F Club (
32. Forres A&F Club (Jan 1978)
33. Galashiels A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
34. Galston A&F Club (Oct 1969 – per first edition – closed March 2006)
35. Glendale Accordion Club (Jan 1973)
36. Glenfarg A&F Club (formed 1988 joined Assoc Mar 95 -
37. Glenrothes A&F Club (Mar 93?
38. 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)
39. Highland A&F Club (Inverness) (Nov 1973 – present)
40. Inveraray A&F Club (Feb 1991 - present)
41. Islay A&F Club (23 Apr 93 -
42. Islesteps A&F Club (Jan 1981 – present – n.b. evolved from the original Dumfries Club)
43. Isle of Skye A&F Club (June 1983 – present)
44. Kelso A&F Club (May 1976 – present)
45. Kintore A&F Club (
46. Ladybank A&F Club (joined Apr 98 but formed
47. Lanark A&F Club (joined Sept 96 – present)
48. Langholm A&F Club (Oct 1967 - present)
49. Lesmahagow A&F Club (Nov 1979 – closed May 2005)
50. Lewis & Harris A&F Club (Aug 1994 -
51. Livingston A&F Club (Sept 1973 – present)
52. Lockerbie A&F Club (Nov 1973 - present)
53. Mauchline A&F Club (Sept 1983 - present)
54. Montrose A&F Club (joined Sept 1982 - present)
55. Muirhead A&F Club (Dec 1994 -
56. Newmill-on-Teviot (Hawick) (Formed late 1988 joined Assoc 1999
57. Newtongrange A&F Club (joined Sept 1977 - present)
58. North East A&F Club aka Keith A&FC (Sept 1971 - present)
59. Oban A&F Club (Nov 1975 - present)
60. Orkney A&F Club (Mar 1978 - present)
61. Peebles A&F Club (26 Nov 1981 - present)
62. Perth & District A&F Club (Aug 1970 - present)
63. Premier A&F Club NI (April 1980)
64. Renfrew A&F Club (1984 -
65. Rothbury Accordion Club (7th Feb 1974) orig called Coquetdale
66. Selkirk A&F Club (
67. Shetland A&F Club (Sept 1978 - present)
68. Stirling A&F Club (Oct 1991 - )
69. Sutherland A&F Club (
70. Thornhill A&F Club (joined Oct 1983 – see Nov 83 edition – closed April 2014)
71. Thurso A&F Club (Oct 1981 - present)
72. Turriff A&F Club (March 1982 - present)
73. Tynedale A&F Club (Nov 1980 - present)
74. Vancouver
75. Wick A&F Club (Oct 1975 - present)
76. Yarrow (prev known as Etterick & Yarrow) (Jan 1989 – )
Not on official list at the start of the season (closed, did not renew membership or omitted in error?)
77. Acharacle & District A&F Club (cMay 1988)
78. Ayr A&F Club (Nov 1983 – per Nov 83 edition) Closed
79. Bonchester Accordion Club (Closed?)
80. Bridge of Allan (Walmer) A&F Club (Walmer Hotel, Bridge of Allan) (c March 1982)
81. Brigmill A&F Club (Oct 1990) Closed
82. Buchan A&F Club
83. Callander A&F Club (
84. Campbeltown & District A&F Club (c Dec 1980)
85. Cleland (cNov 1981 – March 1985) originally called Drumpellier A&F Club (for 2 months)
86. Club Accord
87. Coquetdale A&F Club (Feb 1974 or c1976/77 – 1981/2? – became Rothbury?)
88. Coupar Angus A&F Club (cSept 1978 - ?)
89. Cumnock A&F Club (October 1976 - forced to close cDec 1982 - see Jan 83 Editorial)
90. Denny & Dunipace A&F Club (Feb 1981)
91. Derwentside A&F Club
92. Dornoch A&F Club (first mention in directory 1986)
93. Dumfries Accordion Club (Oughtons) (April 1965 at the Hole in the Wa’)
94. Dunbar Cement Works A&F Club (Closed?)
95. Dundee & District A&F Club (1970? – 1995?)
96. Edinburgh A&F Club (Apr 1981) prev called Chrissie Leatham A&F Club (Oct 1980)
97. Falkirk A&F Club (Sept 1978 - )
98. Fort William A&F Club (21st Oct 1980 – per Dec 1980 B&F)
99. Gorebridge (cNov 1981) originally called Arniston A&F Club (for 2 months)
100. Greenhead Accordion Club (on the A69 between Brampton and Haltwistle)
101. Kirriemuir A&F Club (cSept 1981)
102. M.A.F.I.A. (1966 – 1993?)
103. Monklands A&F Club (Nov 1978 – closed cApril 1983)
104. Morecambe A&F Club (joined Sept 1982)
105. Mull A&F Club
106. Newcastleton Accordion Club
107. New Cumnock A&F Club (cMarch 1979)
108. Newton St Boswells Accordion Club (17th Oct 1972 see Apr 1984 obituary for Angus Park)
109. Ormiston Miners’ Welfare Society A&F Club (closed April 1992 – per Sept Editorial)
110. Reading Scottish Fiddlers (cMarch 1997
111. Renfrew A&F Club (original club 1974/5 lapsed after a few years then again in 1984)
112. Straiton Accordion Club (c1968 – closed March 1979)
113. Stranraer & District Accordion Club (1974 – per first edition)
114. Torthorwald A&F Club (near Dumfries)
115. Tranent A&F Club
116. Walmer (Bridge of Allan) A&F Club
117. Wellbank A&F Club
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