Editorial

March 2026 (Vol. 49, Number 09)

Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder

The Forth Bridge stands as one of Scotland’s greatest engineering achievements, a symbol of Victorian ambition and ingenuity. Spanning the Firth of Forth between Edinburgh and Fife, it was designed as a railway bridge to create a continuous East Coast route from London to Aberdeen.

The story of this iconic bridge, however, begins centuries earlier. A ferry crossing between North and South Queensferry operated as far back as the 12^th century, serving pilgrims travelling to St Andrews. By the 18^th century, this ancient crossing was Scotland’s busiest ferry route, linking the northeast with the capital.

Made from Girders

The arrival of the railway age prompted calls for a fixed crossing. Early attempts included a train ferry introduced in 1850 and a proposed suspension bridge designed by Sir Thomas Bouch in the 1870s. However, after the Tay Bridge disaster in Dundee in1879, a bridge also designed by Bouch—confidence in suspension designs ceased and so did his design plans, and a new approach was required. Bouch sadly became a recluse and died the following year from stress at just age 58.

Engineers Sir John Fowler and Sir Benjamin Baker proposed a revolutionary cantilever structure made of steel—the first major British structure to use the material.  Made from Girders is the phrase often used, not just by Irn Bru, which highlights the massive, industrial scale of the structure, which used over 50,000 tonnes of steel. Construction began in 1882 and continued until 1889, involving thousands of workers and pioneering safety measures. The bridge opened on 4 March 1890, it was immediately hailed as a marvel of modern engineering. At the time, its two 1,700‑foot cantilever spans were the longest in the world, and its distinctive red silhouette quickly became iconic.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Today, the Forth Bridge carries around 200 trains per day and remains a vital part of Scotland’s transport network. The bridge still today looks incredible, and many would say better than anything that has come since. In 2015, it was designated a UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Site, recognising its global significance and enduring influence on bridge engineering. It is one of seven Scottish sites recognised by UNESCO.

There are many jokes that have been told about the painting of the bridge being a never-ending job. For over a century, workers used traditional paint, and due to the harsh Scottish weather, by the time they reached the end of the 1.5-mile bridge, it was time to start over. A major restoration project, completed in 2011 involved stripping the bridge back to bare metal and applying a 3-layer, high-performance paint like that used on oil rigs. The modern techniques and paint used means the bridge will not require a full paint for at least 20 years, finally putting an end to the myth that ‘painting the Forth Bridge’ is a never-ending task.

In this issue

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has just wrapped up some incredible performances in Australia and New Zealand. This event too is a Scottish icon and to get Highland dancers and pipe band members at the end of a runway at an international airport does not happen every day. I went to the Tattoo in Brisbane and still have the sound of the pipes and drums in my mind and loved every minute of it.

James Bond films blend of adventure, travel, glamour and gadgets. The world’s most famous spy has many connections to Scotland and this month we highlight how a Glaswegian helped keep Mr Bond safe and also inspired one the franchises most loved characters.

This month is International Women’s Day. We are delighted to share just some of the great Scottish women who have made their mark on the nation. I know there are so many incredible women who have helped shaped not just the nation but most of us and we are so happy to honour them this month. 

Magnificent structure

The management plan for the Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is currently being updated and people with an interest in the bridge and surrounding area have been invited to comment on the draft plan. UNESCO requires that all World Heritage Sites maintain a management plan to support the future management needs of a World Heritage Site, to coordinate the interests of associated organisations, groups and individuals, and to maximise the benefits and minimise any negative impacts from the World Heritage Site status.

The Forth Bridge’s Management Plan is now ten years old and is being updated for the next decade. People are encouraged to have their say by completing an online questionnaire by 31 March 2026 at: www.fife.gov.uk/forthbridge

I have travelled across the Forth Bridge several times and always know it is something special to do. Last year I was fortunate to spend a beautiful evening having dinner next to the bridge and did have a hard time looking at my food as I took in this magnificent structure as the sunset over it. No wonder this bridge, which has stood the test of time, has been hailed as Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder. Its legacy is not only structural but cultural—a testament to human ambition, resilience, innovation and Scotland’s built heritage.

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

Support the Scottish Banner! To donate to assist with production of our publication  and website visit: The Scottish Banner

February 2026 (Vol. 49, Number 08)

Scotland’s City of Love

Some look at February not only as the shortest month of the year, but also a month of love. However, most would not connect the notion of love with the Glasgow suburb of the Gorbals. Glasgow’s connection to Valentine’s Day is one of those fantastic and unexpected pieces of history that gives Scotland’s largest city a unique claim to romance.

While Paris, Vienna and Venice may market themselves as capitals of love, Glasgow holds something far more tangible-some of the physical relics of Saint Valentine himself and it sits in one of the city’s most infamous suburbs. In the Gorbals, at the Blessed John Duns Scotus Church, a casket is believed to contain part of the martyr’s remains, specifically a forearm, making the city an unlikely pilgrimage site for lovers and the curious alike.

The story begins in 1868, when a wealthy French family donated a small wooden box, labelled ‘Corpus Valentini Martyris’ which translates to ‘the body of Saint Valentine’, to the Franciscan order in Glasgow. The relics were housed first in the early Franciscan chapel and later in the grander St Francis’ Church in the Gorbals, where they remained until 1999. Those remains rest today in the Blessed John Duns Scotus Church, where each 14 February the casket is adorned with flowers and a special Mass is held to honour the saint’s legacy.

Today couples from around the world visit the Glasgow relics of St Valentine, light candles, leave flowers, and take quiet moments to pray for their relationship or future together. Many also take photos beside the casket containing the saint’s forearm, treating the church as a small but meaningful pilgrimage of love.

Patron saint of lovers

The Gorbals, on Glasgow’s south bank, began as the small medieval settlement of Bridgend (named for a wooden bridge that linked the south to the city) and grew rapidly with industry in the 19th century to house the industrial workforce. It became known for dense housing, poverty, vibrant immigrant communities and was considered one of Europe’s worst slums. The Gorbals was not a place synonymous with St Valentine and love and most certainly was a place where a ‘Glasgow Kiss’ was not the meeting of lips but more of a strike to the face or nose using the forehead!

This unusual connection has led some to affectionately call Glasgow a “City of Love,” a playful counterpoint to its tougher reputation. Yet the presence of the relics of St Valentine has genuinely played its part in local tradition. Couples will no doubt again visit the church this month on Valentine’s Day to again light candles, offer prayers, or simply enjoy the symbolism of standing before the patron saint of lovers and maybe giving a card to their special someone signed “from your Valentine”.

There is some question of course if these remains are in fact those of St Valentine. Other locations also claim to have some of St Valentine’s body parts such as Rome and Venice, Italy; Birmingham, England; Roquemaure, France; Chełmno, Poland and Dublin in Ireland.

In this issue

Keeping with our Valentine’s theme this month we get the heart of some of Scotland’s history with how both literal and symbolic hearts are part of Scotland’s landscape and folklore today.

Scottish folklore is full of intriguing tales from across the country. The mysterious Fin Men in the Northern Isles are just one of these tales that has passed through generations of Scots. These sealskinwearing, small boat-paddling travellers were occasionally spotted off Scottish shores, with many theories abounding on their origins and intentions. In Orkney and Shetland these Fin Men became mystical and magical creatures and part of local history and storytelling.

I remember as a teenager one of my first overseas trips with friends to Scotland. It was a huge adventure, and we purchased our BritRail pass to get around. Today rail travel links communities across Scotland and takes both locals and visitors to all parts of the country. Scotland is full of great rail journey’s, including the less obvious ones which are highlighted this month, which still provide some adventure to those who are looking to ride the Scottish rails.

A real historical quirk

I have a strong family connection to Glasgow, I have lived there and it is a city I love. Glasgow is a city of many layers and scratch under the surface a bit and you will find an incredible spirit, people and history. Glasgow’s link to Valentine’s Day is not some marketing invention but a real historical quirk—one that blends faith, folklore, and is no doubt a source of pride to Glaswegians.

It’s a reminder that romance often appears in the most unexpected places, and that even a city famed for its grit can hold a tender secret at its heart. I wish your heart a wonderful month ahead.

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

Support the Scottish Banner! To donate to assist with production of our publication  and website visit: The Scottish Banner

January 2026 (Vol. 49, Number 07)

Scotland’s unique New Year celebrations

Welcome to 2026 and I hope the year ahead is filled with happiness, health and meaning. Though many attending Hogmanay celebrations may wake up a bit late, and possibly a tad worse for wear, on January 1st in one part of Scotland there is however no time for that.

The New Year’s Day Ba’ in Orkney is a centuries-old street football tradition played in Kirkwall, pitting two local teams—the Uppies and the Doonies—against each other in a fierce, rule-free contest.

A battleground for the Ba’

Every 1st of January, the narrow streets of Kirkwall transform into a battleground for the Ba’ game, a custom believed to date back to the Norse era. The match, which also takes place on Christmas Day, begins under the steeple of the stunning St Magnus Cathedral, where a handcrafted leather ball is thrown into a dense crowd of players. From there, chaos ensues: the Uppies aim to force the ball to Mounthoolie Lane at the town’s upper end, while the Doonies strive to reach Kirkwall Bay at the harbour. Victory is achieved when the ball touches the designated goal, often after many hours of pushing, grappling, and strategic smuggling through the throng.

The Ba’ is divided into two fixtures: the Boys’ Ba’ in the morning and the Men’s Ba’ in the afternoon, ensuring the tradition is passed down through generations. There are no time limits, no fixed team sizes, and virtually no rules, apart from the shared understanding of the goals. Men often wear the same shirt each year so fellow teammates can identify each other in the scrum.

High drama

Shops and homes along the route are barricaded in advance, as the surging scrum can spill into doorways and windows. Long periods of the scrum making little progress are interspersed with bursts of high drama, excitement, and thunderous stampedes when a player manages to make a break with the Ba’.

Beyond its physical intensity, the Ba’ embodies Orcadian culture. Players join sides based on family allegiance, birthplace, or tradition, reinforcing Kirkwall’s social fabric. Though there have been numerous injuries during this unique event, for locals the Ba’ is more than a game—it is a living link to Orkney’s unique Viking past, a celebration of resilience, rivalry, and belonging that continues to captivate islanders and visitors alike.

In this issue

As New Year is upon us there are many reasons to make 2026 your year to visit Scotland. In this issue we list a variety of new experiences, some great events and even how you can find a bit of Scotland on your screens no matter where you are. We also have a great overview how you can hear Scotland this year with the year in piping and drumming from The National Piping Centre.

Tom Weir was a beloved Scottish climber, writer, and broadcaster. Known for the Weir’s Way television series where he championed Scotland’s landscapes. Long time readers to the Scottish Banner may recall his older sister actress, broadcaster and author Mollie Weir was also a long-time contributor to these pages. Tom Weir was a son of Glasgow, but he inspired generations with his environmental passion, storytelling, and deep love for the hills and heritage of his homeland.

Scottish folklore is rich in stories and superstition. As Scotland plunges into the heart of winter this month we learn about Scotland’s goddess of winter Cailleach. The Cailleach is considered the divine hag of Celtic mythology. She made Scotland’s mountains and islands, brings about winter every year and many Highland stories tell of encounters with the Cailleach in the guise of an old woman.

Old Hogmanay

For some in Scotland however New Year traditions did not take place on January 1st. Old Scots Hogmanay is on January 11 which marks Scotland’s New Year under the Julian calendar,preserved in rural communities long after the Gregorian switch in 1600. It reflects deep-rooted traditions of fire, kinship, and renewal. Before calendar reform, Scots celebrated New Year on January 11. Even after Britain adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1752, many Highland and island communities clung to the old date, calling it “Old Hogmanay.” This was especially true in places like Shetland and the Outer Hebrides, where Norse influence and local custom ran strong.

If visiting Scotland this month you could enjoy two different Hogmanay’s and head to Burghead, Moray for when the Burning of the Clavie takes place. The townspeople of Burghead light a 100kg barrel of tar which is then carried around the town. Tradition dictates that members of the ‘Clavie Crew’ must be natives of the town.

If like me you will not be in a scrum with hundreds tearing down Kirkwall’s historic streets on New Year’s Day, I do hope you are still able to start the year off on the right foot.

Wishing all our readers, advertisers, followers and friends a wonderful year ahead-may it be a good one for all of us.

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

Support the Scottish Banner! To donate to assist with production of our publication  and website visit: The Scottish Banner

December 2025 (Vol. 49, Number 06)

Scotland’s Highland reindeer

I vividly remember going to bed with great excitement on Christmas Eve and placing some carrots, cookies and milk out for Santa and his nine-trusty reindeer. Of course I would as they have brought me presents; I even convinced myself I could hear the herd walking across our roof.

UK’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer

Those nine reindeer, led by Rudolph, travelled across the globe delivering presents to all the good, and those less so, kids who wrote their letters to Santa or visited him perhaps at a local shopping mall in the lead up to the big day. Today we may be used to Amazon or Temu home deliveries but back then this was a very big thing!

Today there are estimated to be about 9 million reindeer in the world. Some may be interested to learn Scotland is home to the UK’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer, a remarkable population that roams the Cairngorm Mountains in the Highlands.

Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

Twenty-five reindeers were introduced in 1952 by Swedish herder Mikel Utsi and his wife Dr. Ethel Lindgren, these reindeer were reintroduced after being extinct in Scotland for nearly 800 years. Their successful re-establishment is a testament to both ecological vision and cultural curiosity. What makes the Scottish reindeer truly unique is their adaptation to the rugged, often harsh Highland environment.

Unlike their Arctic cousins, these reindeer have acclimatised to Scotland’s temperate climate and varied terrain and have coats which suit the Highland winter weather. Reindeer have a dense undercoat and a thick outer coat of hollow “guard hairs”. The hollow hairs trap air, creating an insulating layer that keeps out the cold and keeps the reindeer warm. They graze on heather, berries, mushrooms, lichen, and grasses, and are well-suited to the mountainous landscape, often seen silhouetted against snow-dusted peaks or wandering through misty glens.

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, now numbering around 150, is carefully managed but allowed to roam freely across a vast expanse of some of Scotland’s finest scenery. This semiwild existence offers a rare opportunity for visitors to observe reindeer in a naturalistic setting—something not easily found elsewhere in the UK.

A beloved symbol of the Highlands

Culturally, the reindeer have become a beloved symbol of the Highlands, especially during the winter months when they feature in festive parades and events across Scotland. Their presence blends Scandinavian heritage with Scottish wilderness, creating a unique fusion of folklore and conservation.

Moreover, the herd plays a vital role in environmental education and eco-tourism. Guided hill trips led by rangers allow people to engage directly with the animals, fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the fragile ecosystems of the Highlands. Scotland’s reindeer are more than just a curiosity—they are a living link between past and present, wilderness and wonder, and a great example of how thoughtful rewilding can enrich both landscape and community.

In this issue

Scotland’s reindeer are sure to not feel crowded as they live in The Cairngorms, the UK’s biggest National Park. I have been to this park, and seen its roaming reindeers, and its beauty is evident around every corner. I have also visited in winter when it is cold but still stunning and in this issue we highlight just some of the things you can do at this year-round destination should you be visiting over the quieter winter months.

We may be hitting some of the darkest months to be in Scotland but there are still lots of opportunities to see the light. This month we shine a light on some of Scotland’s fire-based winter festivities and traditions which take place across the country.

Scotland is known for its incredible Hogmanay celebrations and less so for Christmas. In fact, Christmas was virtually banned in Scotland for hundreds of years and Christmas day did not become a public holiday in Scotland until 1958. However, Scotland has leant itself to various Christmas traditions. Perhaps you will be celebrating this year with a tradition handed to us by a Scot?

Adapted to Scottish life

Reindeer were once native to Britain, but it is thought both climate change and over hunting were causes to their great decline. It is fantastic to know that a healthy and stable population of reindeer have adapted to Scottish life over the last seventy years.

The vision of Mikel Utsi and his wife Dr. Ethel Lindgren thankfully not just lives on today, but thrives. Should you find yourself in the beautiful Scottish Highlands any time of year consider visiting them in the Cairngorms. December is no doubt a very busy month for Scotland’s reindeer as they have just a few public appearances to make. On Christmas eve they will also likely be very busy and I may just leave some carrots out just in case…

I wish you and your clan a wonderful Christmas and Hogmanay season!

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner #NewsForGlobalScots

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

Support the Scottish Banner! To donate to assist with production of our publication  and website visit: The Scottish Banner

November 2025 (Vol. 49, Number 05)

The Woman with the Torch

The city of Edinburgh has recently approved a new statue for the city’s iconic Royal Mile. This statue is surprisingly unique as it is the very first depicting a woman.

That woman is Dr Elsie Inglis who was a pioneering Scottish doctor, suffragist, and humanitarian who transformed women’s healthcare and wartime medicine.

Committed suffragist

Born in 1864 in British India, Inglis trained at the Edinburgh School of Medicine for Women and qualified in 1892. She was appalled by the poor standards of care for women and became a tireless advocate for improved maternity services. In 1901, founded a women-staffed maternity hospital in Edinburgh, a radical move that challenged the male-dominated medical establishment. Dr Inglis had female staff from not just across Scotland working at her sites, but women from as far as Australia, Canada and New Zealand taking up the cause.

A committed suffragist, Inglis was active in the Scottish Federation of Women’s Suffrage Societies. When World War I broke out, she offered her services to the British War Office—only to be told, “Go home and sit still.” Undeterred, she launched the Scottish Women’s Hospitals for Foreign Service, establishing medical units staffed entirely by women. These hospitals operated in France, Serbia, and Russia, treating thousands of soldiers and civilians under extreme conditions.

Inspiring life

Her work in Serbia was especially heroic. Despite illness, she continued to lead medical efforts and was awarded the Serbian Order of the White Eagle and was the first woman to receive the country’s highest honour. She returned to Britain gravely ill with cancer and died on November 26, 1917, just one day after arriving home.

Dr Inglis’s legacy lives on as a symbol of compassion, courage, and defiance. Her contributions not only advanced medical care for women but also proved that female professionals could excel in the most demanding circumstances. Inglis is buried in Dean Cemetery, Edinburgh, and is today remembered as “The Woman with the Torch” and her inspiring life which helped so many.

In this issue

A cast of over 1,000 is preparing to dazzle Australian and New Zealand audiences as The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo gets ready to head overseas in celebration of their incredible 75th anniversary. We include just some of the world class performers in this issue, and for those who cannot make the trip Edinburgh is calling for the 2026 shows also well into development.

Viking invasions and Norse legacy are part of the Scottish story. In this issue we delve into how these fierce raiders went on to build communities and trade and became part of Scotland’s history.

St Andrews is a historic coastal town in Fife, famed as the “Home of Golf” and for its prestigious university (which is Scotland’s oldest). If like me, you may have enjoyed the seaside charm and history the town boasts and if not, you should plan to when visiting Scotland. Some may be surprised St Andrews is not a city but a town, which is full of history, beauty and a place named after Scotland’s patron saint.

Lest We Forget

The following poem was written by a Canadian Medical Corps doctor, Major John McCrae, who was serving with a Field Artillery Brigade in Ypres. The death of one of his friends in May 1915, buried in the cemetery outside his dressing station, affected him severely and he wrote his poem as a way of expressing his anguish at the loss.

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, the guns of the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare during the First World War. Tuesday November 11th marks the 107th anniversary of the Armistice which ended the First World War (1914–18). Every year at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, millions around the world pause in silence to remember the sacrifices many have made so we can enjoy life today.

Remember those who gave their lives in the two world wars and all who have died in combat since. Regardless of where you find yourself this month, I hope you have time to pause and remember all the men and women who gave their all, for all of us. Lest we forget.

This month is also St Andrew’s Day, celebrated on November 30th, which is Scotland’s official national day honouring its patron saint, Saint Andrew the Apostle. Perhaps our events page will have an event you can attend, if you find yourself celebrating, I wish you a wonderful time.

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner #NewsForGlobalScots

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

Support the Scottish Banner! To donate to assist with production of our publication  and website visit: The Scottish Banner

October 2025 (Vol. 49, Number 04)

The Banner Says…

Glasgow City Chambers-A proud symbol of Glasgow

On a recent visit to Glasgow, I had the opportunity to again visit Glasgow City Chambers, one of the most iconic buildings to be found in the city. Whilst there I was given a private tour of just some of the incredible spaces found in this historic and amazing building. Glasgow City Chambers stands proudly on the eastern edge of George Square and is one of Scotland’s most magnificent civic buildings and a powerful symbol of Glasgow’s historical wealth, ambition, and civic pride.

Completed in 1888 and opened by Queen Victoria herself, the building reflects the city’s meteoric rise during the Victorian era, when Glasgow was known as the “Second City of the Empire” due to its booming trade, shipbuilding, and industrial prowess. The need for a grand municipal headquarters had been growing since the 18th century, as Glasgow’s population and political responsibilities expanded. Earlier council meetings were held in modest locations like the Tolbooth at Glasgow Cross and later in various buildings near the Saltmarket and Ingram Street.

Glasgow’s growing status

But by the 1880s, the city’s leaders sought a purpose-built structure that would reflect Glasgow’s growing status and accommodate its administrative needs. A design competition attracted over 100 entries, and the winning design by Paisley born architect William Young was chosen for its opulent Victorian style and practical layout.

Construction began in 1882, and the foundation stone was laid in 1883 by the then Lord Provost John Ure during a public holiday attended by an astonishing 600,000 people. The building was completed five years later, and its grandeur was immediately apparent. The building cost £552,028 which as you may be able to imagine was considerable for that time.

Whilst the outside of the building is spectacular you really need to go inside to fully understand not just how incredible this building is, but to understand Glasgow’s political strength and historical wealth. The interior boasts a sweeping Carrara marble staircase—reputedly the largest of its kind in the world— vaulted mosaic ceilings, and pillars made from Aberdeen granite and polished red Scottish granite topped with green marble. The building incredibly features more marble than what is found at the Vatican. These lavish materials showcase an Italian influence and were deliberately chosen to highlight Glasgow’s prosperity and craftsmanship.

In this issue

A trip to the Scottish Highlands is not complete without visiting Inverness and Loch Ness. Go for the scenery, history, Highland culture and friendly locals. There is an unquestionable timeless drama about the region which makes it a must on your next Scottish adventure.

Some love them, and some not so much, but stroll around a graveyard and there are many stories to be told. Scottish graveyards are rich in history and fascinating, I have visited many and am drawn to the stories the stones tell and the oftenlovely natural setting that those who came before us rest in.

East Linton is a small country village, located on the banks of the River Tyne between Haddington and Dunbar in East Lothian, with a lot of history. The village and surrounding area not only offer beauty but also centuries of history which is quite easily accessible when looking for something different when next in Scotland.

Glasgow’s civic spirit

Glasgow City Chambers today remains a working municipal building. Council meets regularly and meetings are open to the public. As you would imagine the staff working here are immensely proud of this building. The building has hosted royalty, heads of state, sporting greats, and countless everyday great people.

You can, and really should, take the free tour of this building, these run Monday to Friday twice a day. Public tours allow visitors to explore its ornate rooms and learn about Glasgow’s civic legacy, making it not just a seat of power but a living museum of the city’s identity. Outside George Square is currently undergoing a lengthy redevelopment, but the City Chambers are still in full operation.

Glasgow City Chambers is more than a municipal building—it’s a monument to the city’s industrial might, artistic heritage, and celebrates Glasgow’s civic spirit. Its history mirrors Glasgow’s transformation from medieval burgh to what is today’s Scotland’s largest city which this year is celebrating 850 years, and its continued use underscores the city’s commitment to honouring its past while shaping its future.

Have you visited Glasgow City Chambers? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner #NewsForGlobalScots

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

September 2025 (Vol. 49, Number 03)

The Banner Says…

The Scots combining passion with purpose

Earlier this year we featured the incredible story of the Maclean brothers who are currently rowing their way from Peru across the Pacific Ocean to Australia. Long time readers may also recall we also featured the brother’s incredible Atlantic row in 2020 where they spent 35 days crossing the ocean and setting three world records in the process (the first three brothers to row any ocean and the fastest and youngest trio to ever row the Atlantic Ocean).

Innovative spirit

The Maclean brothers are Ewan, Jamie, and Lachlan and they are not just a trio of Scottish adventurers, whose feats in ocean rowing are nothing short of extraordinary. What makes them so incredible is not just their physical endurance, but the sheer scale of their ambition, their innovative spirit, and their unwavering commitment to a cause  far greater than themselves. The brothers are rowing for clean water projects in Madagascar and have an ambitious target of raising £1 million to help tens of thousands of people to have clean water. Something that should be every human’s right.

In January I had the chance to meet the three brothers in Edinburgh as they were busily preparing for the journey and to send their 28-foot carbon fibre boat, Rose Emily (named in memory of their late sister) off to South America. During that meeting Jamie and Lachlan took me to see Rose Emily, which was built with Formula One materials and was in storage on land waiting to be driven off to the port.

The boat is small and the two cabins even smaller and I was only on board for a few minutes and wondered how anyone could spend a great deal of time aboard. I did not need to ask the brothers what their bond is like, as for anyone to venture on a vessel of that size you really must like your crew!

If like me you may have been following their journey online, you can visit either their website or social media accounts for all kinds of information on how they are doing day to day. There you can also see how they handle sea sickness, how they eat and drink (they survive on rehydrated meals and desalinated water), sleep and even use the loo. Beneath their boat, the depths of the Pacific Ocean have plunged to around 6,000 metres, or nearly four miles straight down, which is deeper than Ben Nevis stacked five times over. The nights have been dark, and wind has pushed them back, but they keep going.

It has been wonderful to see a list of celebrities reach out and help raise the profile of the mission. Ewan McGregor, Mark Wahlberg, Sam Heughan are just some of the names that have given the Maclean’s the encouragement to keep going. And though their arrival into Sydney Harbour may not go to plan as they now look to come ashore in Cairns in Queensland, and will hopefully have done so by the time many read this, regardless they will have accomplished a tour de force in every possible sense of that phrase.

In this issue

Glasgow has again hosted the pipe bands from across the world at the 2025 World Pipe Band Championships. We feature this iconic event in this issue and congratulations to all the bands which took part.

We are also thrilled to feature Jacqueline McLaren, the Lord Provost of Glasgow, whose passion for Scotland’s largest city is clear. The city is celebrating its 850th anniversary this year, and the Lord Provost is rightfully proud of Glasgow’s incredible history and exciting future ahead.

I recently again visited Culloden Battlefield. Culloden Moor marks the brutal 1746 defeat of the Jacobites, ending their uprising and triggering cultural suppression across the Scottish Highlands. The somber site is a war grave, and archaeologists will soon be scouring the site to look for more artifacts and pieces of this brutal story and sacred site in the Highlands.

Brotherly unity

As we complete this issue the Maclean brothers are at over 130 days of rowing unsupported. They have no engine, no sail, and no support crew and the brother’s row in shifts around the clock. They have faced months of challenging conditions such as salt sores, sleep deprivation, inclement weather and technical failures and they have shown resilience, creativity, and brotherly unity.

But their journey is not just about athleticism and creating records. It’s a mission to raise £1 million for clean water projects in Madagascar through their charity, The Maclean Foundation. Their story is a testament to what’s possible when adventure meets purpose. They’re not just rowing oceans—they are reshaping what it means to take on a monumental challenge for the greater good. As Lachlan said to me earlier this year “we are looking to combine passion with purpose”, well that they truly have and we are all cheering them on with every stroke of their oars.

If any of our readers and followers can help, please do so. You can track their progress and donate to their £1 million fundraising target at: www.themacleanbrothers.com.

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

August 2025 (Vol. 49, Number 02)

The Banner Says…

The evacuation from the ‘Edge of the World’

Ninety-five years ago this month one of Scotland’s most famous island stories took place as the last St Kildans took their final steps across the island of St Kilda. The evacuation of St Kilda on 29 August 1930 remains one of the most poignant episodes in Scottish history. This remote archipelago, located 40 miles west of the Outer Hebrides, had been inhabited for over two millennia. Its evacuation marked not just the end of a community, but the conclusion of a distinctive way of life shaped by isolation, resilience, and a deep connection to nature.

For centuries, the people of St Kilda lived in near-total seclusion. The islanders developed a unique culture, language dialect, and set of traditions adapted to their environment. Life was dictated by the rhythm of the sea, the availability of birds and fish, and the limited arable land. They harvested seabirds, built stone houses resistant to Atlantic storms, and used bartering with passing vessels to acquire basic necessities.

Hirta, the largest island, was the site of the only settlement on St Kilda, which never had more than 200 residents at a time. The smaller islands of Soay, Boreray and Dun offered additional crop and cattle farming for the island community.

A cultural dislocation

However, by the early 20th century, signs of fragility emerged. The population had declined steadily due to disease, infant deaths, emigration, and the hardships of maintaining life in such a hostile environment. The islands lacked a resident doctor, and supplies were increasingly inconsistent leading to the depopulation of the islands. A tragic outbreak of influenza in 1927 intensified the crisis, with just 43 residents left, prompting calls for government intervention. By 1930, the final remaining 36 islanders— facing famine, medical neglect, and social isolation—petitioned for evacuation.

Their request was granted, and they were relocated to the Scottish mainland with some ending up in more far-flung places like Australia and Canada. The departure from St Kilda wasn’t merely a logistical move—it was a cultural dislocation. Islanders were transplanted into a world vastly different from their own, struggling to adapt to industrial Scotland. Traditional skills were suddenly obsolete, and the social fabric that had bound the community unravelled.

While the evacuation offered safety and resources, it also brought disorientation and loss of identity for many. Many of the men were offered jobs in forestry, however due to the extreme weather there were no trees on St Kilda so this was so foreign to them. The evacuation of St Kilda underscores the fragility of isolated
cultures when faced with modernity.

In this issue

Scotland’s standing stones are uniquely mysterious, often arranged in circles aligned with celestial events. Dating back over 5,000 years, they blend ritual, astronomy, and folklore. From the Ring of Brodgar to Calanais, each site evokes ancient ceremonies, seasonal markers, and legend. Today we can still walk amongst these timeless symbols of Scotland’s spiritual and cultural heritage on our next visit to Scotland.

The Highland Clearances were forced evictions of Scottish Highlanders from the 18th to 19th centuries. Landowners replaced tenants with sheep farming for profit, dismantling clan society. Thousands emigrated or faced poverty and famine. The Clearances reshaped Scotland’s demographics, culture, and landscape, leaving a legacy of loss whilst creating Scottish diaspora worldwide. This month we look at one of Scotland’s most
raumatic events.

The Border Reivers were fierce raiders from the Anglo-Scottish frontier, active between the 13th and 17th centuries. Known for cattle rustling, feuds, and blackmail, they defied law and national allegiance. Living in fortified towers, they shaped border culture with their loyalty to kin, guerrilla tactics, and enduring legacy in folklore. However, they were also cursed as we discover in this issue.

St Kilda today

Today, St Kilda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for both its natural and cultural significance. Making it the UK’s only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of only 39 in the world, this rare designation highlights its global value. St Kilda is managed by the National Trust for Scotland and though the people may have left it is today home to the UK’s largest colony of Atlantic puffins and nearly a million seabirds, including gannets and fulmars.

The Ministry of Defence has also had a presence on the island since the 1950s. Visitors to Scotland can visit the island and there are yearround day boat trips to St Kilda available, something I hope to be able to do one day.

For historians however the story of St Kilda isn’t just about geography— it’s about people, choices, and legacy. A tale of resilience, but also one of farewell. And as the seabirds still circle the cliffs of St Kilda, known as the island on the edge of the world, the island remains a powerful symbol of Scotland’s deep and layered history.

Have you visited St Kilda?  Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

July 2025 (Vol. 49, Number 01)

The Banner Says…

‘Coastodians’ of Scotland’s Solway Coast

On the southwest border between Scotland and England lies the stunning Solway Coast. The Solway Firth hugs the Dumfries & Galloway coastline and is the third largest estuary in the UK, which was listed in 1964 as a Special Area of Conservation, and boasts coastal dunes, salt marshes, raised mires and agricultural land.

The region is home to an abundant variety of wildlife and is rich in natural heritage. The area is certainly one of the lesser visited parts of Scotland and those who are lucky enough to explore the region, just over 2 hours from Glasgow, can take in so much natural wonders from sea cliffs and sandy beaches to sheltered coves and also visit Scotland’s most Southerly point the Mull of Galloway. Visitors to Scotland can take in the region by driving the South West Coastal 300, one of the country’s newest driving routes.

Nature takes centre stage

Dumfries and Galloway is home to Scotland’s last wild native oyster fishery on Loch Ryan and people have harvested the native oyster for centuries. Sadly, native oyster beds have declined by 95% in the UK since the 19th century. The region also has 25% of Scotland’s saltmarshes, which are rich in food for both bird and marine life. Nature takes centre stage in this part of southern Scotland and the unique seascape needs to be protected for future generations to enjoy.

This diverse and stunning 210-mile stretch of precious coastline and coastal waters will benefit from a ten-year large-scale funding awarded to SCAMP (Solway Coast and Marine Project) by The National Lottery Heritage Fund Landscape Connections. Up to £8million will be used to create 120 miles of new coastal trails which will be created to improve and better link the existing coastal path network, while also making the paths more accessible for more users of varying abilities.

Ten coastal gateway sites will also be enhanced; these improved facilities will allow more people to take in and learn about the incredible Solway Firth and greater coastline. Five key habitats will be targeted for improvements including seagrass meadows, native oyster reef, saltmarsh, coastal woodland and sand dunes.

Protecting our natural heritage

Not only in Scotland but across the world protecting our natural heritage is so very important. As climate change causes impacts to communities and economies, helping our planet whilst celebrating the beauty of this part of Scotland is a huge win for the region. The Solway Firth has played a role in shaping Scotland’s history, biodiversity, economy and culture, as a gateway to the world and an important natural resource.

With rising sea levels and storm surges taking place across the globe as well as natural heritage under threat both on land and under the water we need to protect or coastal regions and take on nature-based solutions to make sure our seascape, and the communities which live amongst them, thrive well into the future.

The Solway Coast is the first area in the UK to benefit from The National Lottery Heritage Fund’s Landscape Connections, and this is a testament to the rich, diverse and precious natural region this part of Scotland has. I look forward to learning how these projects will benefit the Solway land and seascape and hope many more of us get to experience this great region for years, and generations, to come.

In this issue

On Thursday 22nd May 1975 PS (Paddle Steamer) Waverley carried her very first passengers in her new career operating for her own company – Waverley Steam Navigation Co Ltd. Waverley originally entered service in 1947 and is without doubt one of Scotland’s most famous vessels. This year marks 50 incredible years since the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer was preserved and saved for generations of Scots to enjoy. We are so thrilled to have Douglas McGowan MBE, who has been instrumental in the ship’s longevity and shares some of the ships history and his relentless passion with us.

Thousands of years ago the powerful and mighty Romans thought Scotland, or Caledonia, was literally at the end of the world. But did they ever conquer the lands which we all know, and love, as Scotland? This month we look at some of the history of the Roman invasions of Scotland and what impact they had and the story they left behind.

Argyll has a long history in whisky production, going all the way back to the 17th century. The area is home to 15 world class distilleries which celebrate the regions rich whisky heritage, which was once known as the ‘whisky capital of the world’. The region’s fertile soil, extensive peat bogs, and pure water—create ideal conditions for crafting exceptional whisky and I am sure many will say cheers to that!

Happy Birthday tae us!

This issue marks the commencement of our 49th year of monthly publication. With so many publications being lost during the global pandemic it really is the incredible support of our readers, advertisers, followers and friends that got us here. Without it, reaching this anniversary would not have been possible in such a challenging operating environment, so thank you so very much and I do hope you enjoy this edition.

Have you visited the Dumfries & Galloway coastline?  Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

June 2025 (Vol. 48, Number 12)

The Banner Says…

Celebrating 200 years of train travel

Should you be visiting Scotland, and the UK,  this year there is a good chance you may find yourself on a train or at least seeing one. This year marks the 200th anniversary of rail travel in the UK. In the coal region of County Durham the Stockton & Darlington Railway opened in September 1825 and was the beginning of what would completely revolutionise how people connected with communities and each other.

That first twenty-six-mile train journey carrying over 400 people did not just set the stage to transform Britain but the entire planet.

Scotland’s oldest railway

Our ancestors were using horse and cart to transport people and goods prior to this, and the thought of a passenger train ignited the imagination of the world. The first rail line built in Scotland was the Kilmarnock and Troon Railway which opened in June 1812 and was constructed to transport coal from pits around Kilmarnock. The railway initially used horses to pull the carriages. On June 27, 1812, the historic journey marked the beginning of regular railway passenger services in Scotland. It also became the first railway in Scotland powered by a steam locomotive in 1816. Scotland’s first steam locomotive was called “The Duke” which pulled a passenger service, nine years before its use on the Stockton to Darlington Railway being celebrated this year.

Scotland can trace railways even further in history as the Tranent Waggonway in East Lothian was first constructed in 1722 and considered to be Scotland’s oldest railway. Tracks were made for horses to pull coal and salt filled wooden wagons and are a unique part of Scotland’s industrial history. The railway has quite a history as in 1745 the opening skirmish between the English army and Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Highlanders took place at Prestonpans on the Waggonway line. Scotland’s first railway fatality also took place on the Waggonway when in 1762 James Paterson was hit by the train and later succumbed to his injuries. This is reported to also be the first death on a railway anywhere in the world.

Railway Mania

By the 1840’s ‘Railway Mania’ had swept across the UK with thousands of new railway lines being planned. In 2022/23 the UK railway carried 1.4 billion passengers on 9,864 miles of route between 2,578 stations. It also moved more than 15.7 billion tonnes of freight, taking 6.4 million trucks off the nation’s busy road network. In Scotland you can of course take a train to get from A to B but there are some great rail experiences on offer.

The West Highland Line is widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest train journeys. The route leads from Glasgow to Mallaig on the west coast, passing over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and offering breathtaking views of locations such as Loch Shiel, Loch Eilt and Ben Nevis. The West Highland Line is also known to millions as the railway that took Harry Potter from Platform 9 ¾ all the way to Hogwarts.

The Far North Line is Britain’s most rural railway and connects Inverness with Thurso (the UK’s most northerly station) and Wick at the northern limits of the Highlands. The full journey takes around four hours and follows hundreds of miles of beautiful varied landscapes, from peatland bogs and minuscule hamlets to the gates of the magnificent Dunrobin Castle.

The Belmond Royal Scotsman train offers a truly glamorous oncein- a-lifetime trip with fine dining and five-star hospitality. The Royal Scotsman whisks travellers around Scotland on unforgettable luxury breaks, stopping off for day trips along the way.

Strathspey Steam Railway takes in the majestic Cairngorm mountains which can be seen from the comfort of a plush carriage on a trip along the route. Visitors travelling from England can catch the Caledonian Sleeper at London Euston and be swept up to the Highlands overnight, waking up to stunning views of Rannoch Moor before arriving in Fort William. Other options include waking up in Edinburgh, Inverness, Aberdeen or Glasgow before continuing your Scottish adventure.

No Scottish rail experience is complete without a trip across the Forth Rail Bridge. Connecting Edinburgh with Fife, this remarkable structure has the second-longest single cantilever span of any bridge in the world and has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

In this issue

Scotland is blessed with an incredible history and part of that story has to be the many castles found across the nation. These fortresses of power and wealth have an amazing and often bloody history and castles have changed over time incorporating different styles and uses. Who better to do a ‘Scottish castles 101’ than our very own Castle Hunter- David C. Weinczok.

Last month the 80th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day took place. Celebrations were marked across the world. Jim Stoddart reflects on his family’s history in Clydebank during the war and the celebration that followed.

Rail adventures

One of my favourite rail trips in Scotland is Glasgow to Oban, full of incredible scenery and a great way to travel. Without question my favourite station in all of the UK is Glasgow Central Station, the architecture draws me in every time. My grandfather made rivets used in the station, so maybe that draws me in closer. If you ever have time do the amazing station tour on offer, it is incredible to do, and you will not be disappointed.

I am looking forward to experiencing some Scottish rail adventures myself this summer and will no doubt reflect just how far down the rails we have evolved in the last couple of hundred years. Happy travels to those doing the same…

Have you travelled by train in Scotland? Do you have a favourite rail adventure? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

May 2025 (Vol. 48, Number 11)

The Banner Says…

Big news for Scotland in Miniature

I remember the very first time I stepped foot on the Isle of Arran, it was a misty autumn morning when I got off the ferry to explore the island which sits just off the Ayrshire coast. Many travelling around the Ayrshire mainland will have no doubt have seen Arran in the not too far distance. Getting there is really easy, and close, but at the same time it really is a world away from many other parts of Scotland.

Arran is in fact the largest island in the Firth of Clyde and the seventh largest island in all of Scotland and has the unique and fitting nickname as ‘Scotland in Miniature’. Arran offers a blend of the Scottish Lowlands and Highlands as it sits on the Highland Boundary Fault and provides a diverse range of topography, fauna and flora. From rugged mountains to lush valleys, a stunning coastline, wildlife and even quite a bit of historical sites there is much to keep any visitor busy.

Arran is Scotland’s only island which has the ‘Big Five’ wildlife (red squirrel, red deer, golden eagle, otter and harbour seal), an array of bird life with over 150 different species calling it home, as well as a huge variety of marine life from basking sharks to dolphins and whales.

UNESCO Global Geopark

The Isle of Arran has recently been recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and awarded as the UK’s 10th Global Geopark, and only the third in Scotland. As a UNESCO Global Geopark, the Isle of Arran will focus on promoting geotourism, environmental awareness and community engagement.

The Arran Geopark will offer visitors a range of activities and educational programs and also initiatives to maintain and protect this beautiful natural environment for generations to come. Arran Geopark joins the North West Highlands Geopark and Geopark Shetland in Scotland as places of outstanding geological heritage value and its benefit to local people through tourism and education. Scotland is known the world over for its natural beauty and Arran certainly punches above its weight in that as the island offers not just rich biodiversity, but it is set amongst dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches and rugged landscapes.

In this issue

A follow on from last month’s interview with the CEO of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo as this iconic event celebrates its 75th anniversary. A team from The Tattoo last month travelled to the US to feature in some Tartan Day events and share our incredible Scottish culture and traditions with US audiences which we are featuring in this edition.

I have done quite a bit of train travel around Scotland and one of my favourite things to do as I roll across the rural landscape is to take in the many sheep which can be found across the countryside. They stand out across the green fields of Scotland but what do we know of the background of sheep in Scotland? This unique topic has been highlighted in this edition, and we hope you enjoy learning about their unique role in Scottish history.

Glasgow Art School graduate Dudley D Watkins may not be a name which jumps out for many, however he has had a big impact on many Scottish children. Known as a pioneer for modern British comics Watkins created Scottish classics such as The Broons, The Dandy and Oor Wullie. Dudley D Watkins worked at Dundee’s DC Thompson for 40 years and entertained and inspired generations of kids, and adults, and it is our pleasure to highlight him in this issue.

Arranach’s

Whilst the Isle of Arran has rightly been recognised by UNESCO for its rich biodiversity and incredible landscapes it also offers some outstanding visitor attractions. As you would expect from a place called ‘Scotland in Miniature’ the island boasts castles (a visit to Brodick Castle is a must), whisky distilleries, the prehistoric standing stones of Machrie Moor, Neolithic chambered cairns and the Arran Heritage Museum which showcases the social history of this incredible island.

It is often mentioned Arran is a great day trip from Glasgow, which can be done, but a few days on the island can also be filled quite easily. The island’s cultural traditions are also maintained by the locals, known as Arranach’s, who enjoy a slower pace of life amid a temperate climate and known for their friendliness. The local paper on the island of course strikes a chord for me as The Arran Banner last year celebrated its incredible 50th anniversary in keeping locals and visitors up to date.

I also recall a lady telling me she went to Arran to specifically purchase a sweater and only then realised Aran Sweaters come from the islands off the Irish coast, not Scotland. However, the various villages around the island will offer great and fresh produce and food, pubs and businesses and a welcoming smile. Perhaps if you choose to visit you too will get a smile from experiencing all that ‘Scotland in Miniature’ offers…

Have you been to the Isle of Arran or would like to visit? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

April 2025 (Vol. 48, Number 10)

The Banner Says…

Scottish dog breeds under threat

One of many recognisable symbols of Scotland include bagpipes, tartan, whisky and the beautiful Scottish Terriers (known also as a Scottie dog). You will find Scottie dogs on all kinds of Scottish tourist products from tins of shortbread, tea towels, magnets and even a piece on the iconic Monopoly board.

Dog lovers

Scotland is certainly a nation of dog lovers with nearly a quarter of the population having a four legged resident in their households. Having a dog, though not for everyone, offers so many benefits such as helping people with stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, blood pressure, encourages exercise, and general connection in the wider community. I am a lifelong dog lover  however currently do not have a dog, but make sure I connect with dogs at every opportunity I get.

The Kennel Club is a UK organisation which puts out a list ofdog breeds of British and Irish origin that are considered to be vulnerable due to their declining registration numbers. Some classic Scottish breed populations are struggling, not only in Scotland but across the UK and globally and being placed on ‘At Watch’ or ‘Vulnerable’ lists.

The Scottish Terrier, which is likely the dog most would connect with Scotland was added to The Kennel Club’s ‘At Watch’ list last year. This highly intelligent breed had less than 400 births in the UK last year which was lowest on record. Originally bred to hunt, the breed was also thought to be Queen Victoria’s favourite dog.

At risk

Another breed at risk is the Skye Terrier, which takes its name from the Isle of Skye and with less than 100 UK wide births puts it in the ‘Vulnerable’ list. The breed is known to be the oldest terrier breed in Scotland, going back to the 14th century. The Skye breed is thought to have started after a Spanish shipwreck off the coast of Skye and Rassay and the canine survivors bred with local terriers, producing a strain with a long, silky coat. The most famous Skye Terrier is without question Greyfriars Bobby. The faithful dog who stood by his owner’s grave in Edinburgh has been immortalised with one of the city’s most famous statues, as well as books, movies and merchandise.

Also, on the ‘Vulnerable” list are the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, a breed that even has its very own tartan and is the only dog breed named after a fictional character. Sir Walter Scott published in 1814, Guy Mannering, which featured a character called ‘Dandie Dinmont’ who was a farmer from the Borders, along with his pack of pepper and mustard terriers. These fictional characters were in fact based on historical fact and these dogs are now in danger as only a few hundred are born each year around the world and less than 100 in the UK.

With less than 200 births in the UK also on the ‘Vulnerable” list are Gordon Setters. Named after the Duke of Gordon, Gordon Setters were originally called black-and tan setters and are the largest of the setter breeds. The 4th Duke of Gordon played a major role in developing the modern breed of this large hunting dog. The Duke of Gordon began breeding these setters in the early 19th century. By the early 20th century, most Gordon Setters could be traced back to the kennels at Gordon Castle.

Some may not realise that certain dog breeds can go ‘out of fashion’ for various reasons, and I hope these iconic Scottish breeds can turn around their numbers for generations of people to enjoy these unique versions of ‘man’s best friend’ for many years to come.

In this issue

2025 marks 75 years of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of Scotland’s most iconic and internationally recognised events. In 1949 a performance entitled Something About a Soldier was performed at the beautiful Ross Bandstand in Princes Street Gardens, followed by The King’s Men on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade. Sir Andrew Murray, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, was so impressed by these productions that he invited the General Officer Commanding the Army in Scotland to produce a military show called the Edinburgh Tattoo, to take place annually as part of the Edinburgh International Festival. Since 1950 millions of people have seen the Tattoo live and many millions more on their screens. I have been fortunate to attend the Tattoo three times (and only once in the rain!) and we are delighted to have Jason Barrett, Chief Executive, of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo tell us more about this year’s production.

One piper who is getting ready for a performance of a lifetime must be Lady Jane MacRae, a maths teacher from Aberdeen, who is playing the pipes at the VE Day 80th commemoration in front of the King in London in May. The former concert pianist not only will have a royal audience but will have the incredible honour of piping to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day and Nazi Germany’s surrender in the Second World War.

Though a bit more planning may be involved, a visit to Orkney is well worth the effort when visiting Scotland. Some may think Orkney is a single island, but it is in fact an archipelago of around 70 islands, of which just 20 are inhabited, and located just 20 miles/32 km off the north coast of the Scottish mainland. The area has so much natural attractions, an incredible neolithic history and rich Viking culture. This month we look at some of the less well-known historic sites in Orkney that may help you decide to take that trip and explore the place the ancient Romans used to call the Orcades.

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner #NewsForGlobalScots

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

March 2025 (Vol. 48, Number 09)

The Banner Says…

Pipes and Drums for all

In the lead up to International Women’s Day, on March 8th, I was recently interested to read about a ground-breaking study that was undertaken by The National Piping Centre in Glasgow, in collaboration with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

I wrote about this six-month study just under two years ago when it was announced an online survey would be made available to women in the piping and drumming community designed to gain a better understanding of a female’s perspectives and experiences within piping and drumming in Scotland.

Women in Piping and Drumming: Equality, Inclusivity, and Diversity

Results of the study have now been published. The research survey, entitled Women in Piping and Drumming: Equality, Inclusivity, and Diversity, was first launched in April 2023. It aimed to understand women’s perspectives and experiences and any obstacles they may find within the pipe band community, a community in which they make up 20-30% of. The study did not include members of the international piping community, rather it focused on piping and drumming within Scotland itself. Hundreds of women took part to have their say.

I have met people from the pipe band community all my life and I have witnessed what an incredible fraternity it is. The friendship and community pipe band life involves is something that is evident for any outsider to see. Being a part of a pipe band brings a wealth of experiences and opportunities to the band members, from being part of incredible events to travel all over the place.

I was however surprised to read over half of the respondents had noted they not only have experienced sexism within their piping and drumming community, but had felt their gender was a factor in them retiring from the community. Whilst a quarter of respondents had personally experienced behaviour they would consider to be inappropriate at a band event and also that a senior band member had used or tried to use their status to take advantage of them due to their gender.

New initiatives

I do not know if there may be similar perspectives outside of Scotland, but the survey findings have led to two new initiatives which aim to promote more equality, diversity and inclusion and take meaningful steps to help create a more equal and inclusive piping and drumming community. The Maket Collective and The Stand Project, each seek to place equality for women firmly on the agenda across the piping world in both Scotland and across the globe.

The Maket Collective is an online community which was launched last year and promotes women in piping. It is a place for women to share stories, videos, performance opportunities and more. The name for this project is inspired by the first named piper in history, Lady Maket, who lived in Egypt over 3,000 years ago and was buried with her pipes alongside her.

The other new initiative is The Stand Project. This is open to all people in the piping and drumming community and allows members to pledge to stand with all members of the community. It signals an acceptance for all people involved in the pipe band movement, regardless of their sex, race, religion or orientation. Free pin badges are available from the National Piping Centre which allows you to show your support for everyone having a place in the piping community.

In this issue

Some may not be aware that some incredible Scottish women where pioneers in the fields of archaeology and ethnology, without whom much crucial knowledge of places like Kilmartin Glen and Atholl would not exist. This month we highlight Marion Campbell, who discovered and excavated hundreds of sites in Mid Argyll; Lady Evelyn Stewart Murray, the youngest daughter of the Duke of Atholl who collected and wrote down, in many cases for the first time, hundreds of folk stories from Highland Perthshire in the local dialect of Perthshire Gaelic; and Dorothy Marshall, a naturalist and archaeologist who founded societies in Bute and was instrumental in uncovering much of that island’s historic past.

Scotland’s ‘Live Act of the Year’ recipients Skerryvore have evolved from their humble beginnings twenty years ago to become one of the country’s most popular bands. Skerryvore bring a modern sound to the world but keep their West Coast sound close to their core and have embraced their traditional roots, and have some great performances coming up in Australia, Scotland and the USA this year. We are fortunate to have spoken to the band’s singer-songwriter and guitarist Alec Dalglish as they embark on this incredible 20th anniversary year.

The mass breakout of Allied airmen from Stalag Luft III, a high security prison camp run by the Luftwaffe, during WW2 in March 1944 was made into a 1960s Hollywood film, which both became known as ‘The Great Escape’. A daring Scottish RAF pilot named Alistair Thompson McDonald was part of the plot which shook the Nazi regime to their core and was one of the few to make it back to Britain alive. On the anniversary of that extraordinary March night, we are so honoured to again share their incredible story.

Important part of our culture

Piping and drumming is still dominated by males across the world today, as it has been through history. There is however no doubt women not only have an important place in the pipe band world but also make it a better community (and I am proud to know many of them). So, it is welcoming to see the pipe band community looking inwards and creating ways for women to remain engaged in this important part of our culture, as thankfully they are here to stay.

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

February 2025 (Vol. 48, Number 08)

The Banner Says…

The lost streets of Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital is regarded as one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world, designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1995. The streets are full of history and Edinburgh is Scotland’s most visited city. Today any visit to the city will see visitors year-round taking photos at every corner and using their GPS to navigate the winding cobble stone streets. However, one street just may not come up on anyone’s map.

Libberton’s Wynd

Libberton’s Wynd ran from High Street in Lawnmarket down to Cowgate, just off the George IV Bridge and deep below where the National Library of Scotland now stands. This forgotten street was only rediscovered in the 1990s by library staff and is affectionately known as ‘The Void’. As Edinburgh grew during the 1800s several streets were demolished to make way for the George IV Bridge, this included Libberton’s Wynd. The wynd itself was a very packed street with crowded tenements full of families and businesses and not much natural light available. Those who used to walk this road had to contend with what occurred on many streets, residents tossing their latrines out the window to the call of “Gardylo”. It also housed some of the more interesting drinking establishments and was a favoured location for Robert Burns during his time in Edinburgh in the 1700s.

The street, though considered unsafe at night, would have been full of life with silversmiths, grocers, barbers and more. Libberton’s Wynd was also a popular throughfare to reach Edinburgh’s infamous gallows. Thousands of spectators would head to the nearby gallows and watch all kinds of people executed in a macabre public show, including that of the infamous body-snatcher and murderer William Burke which took place on 28th January 1829.

The first reference to Libberton’s Wynd can be traced back to the late 15th century, and the iconic street was demolished by 1835. In the 1990s staff from the National Library of Scotland opened up a hatch found behind a filing cabinet and discovered the remains of some of Libberton’s Wynd and a piece of Edinburgh’s history. ‘The Void’ is still not accessible to the public but the fact it has been discovered in modern times allows us to try and get a glimpse into what life was like in history.

Historic passageways

Anyone who has visited Edinburgh has no doubt walked the Royal Mile in the heart of the Old Town. Off the Royal Mile you will still today find closes, courts and wynds. So, what is the difference some might wonder? Most of the historic passageways which run off the Royal Mile are closes, and date back to Medieval times. The name was in connection to that they were often private property, with a gate and closed to the public and the ‘closeness’ of these narrow lanes being just a few feet or metre apart.

A wynd was a lane or alley leading off a major thoroughfare and open to the public. These passageways were wider, even able to accommodate horse and buggy, than closes and would wind and connect different parts of the town. Wynd’s like Libberton’s Wynd would have many people pass through it every day.

Courts were narrow passages off the Royal Mile which open into a larger courtyard area and used for access generally by more than one building.

In this issue

Regular readers of the Scottish Banner may remember when we highlighted three Scottish brothers who not only broke a world record by rowing across the Atlantic, they did it to help people have clean and safe drinking water. Ewan, Jamie and Lachlan Maclean will soon set off on a monumental row from South America to Sydney, Australia this year to again raise money for the cause close to their hearts. We will keep readers updated on this incredible journey and encourage anyone who can support their efforts to do so.

Have you ever wondered where the Highlands start in Scotland, or where the Lowlands end? The notion of Highlands or Lowlands goes beyond just geological features such as the Highland Boundary Fault but also entails social and agricultural history.

Many Scottish branch lines were lost in the 1960s as part of a major restructuring of the UK’s nationalized railway system and also rising car ownership. Today some of those rail lines are being used for recreational purposes, giving them a new lease of life. Cyclists along with two and four legged walkers can enjoy these unique outdoor spaces and connect with nature and themselves.

Valentine’s Day in Scotland

This month is also Valentine’s Day, a day to celebrate love. It is believed that the remains of St Valentine’s are found at the church of Blessed St John Duns Scotus in Glasgow. Each February 14th people gather at the Gorbals church, where his forearm is meant to be, and celebrate mass and love. Scotland’s reputation for romantic venues is already well known throughout the world.

For one small Scottish village love has been part of its history for hundreds of years. Gretna Green in the Scottish Borders is famous around the world as the place for weddings. It is the first village over the Scottish border on the road from England to Glasgow. It is renowned for being the place where young English couples in particular eloped; as English law said they could not marry until they were 18 years old (or 21 without their parents’ permission), whereas in Scotland marriage was allowed at 16.

Thus, making the town Britain’s ultimate wedding destination, and what’s not to love about that.

Have you walked any of Edinburgh’s historic streets? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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January 2025 (Vol. 48, Number 07)

The Banner Says…

I Belong to Glasgow

As 2025 is now upon us not only do I wish all our readers and friends a very Happy New Year, but also a very happy 850th birthday to Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow. For some when they think of Glasgow they think of ship building, grit, working class and an accent that some struggle to understand. This is just part of a city that has evolved so much since I have known it, and was doing so long before I got to walk its streets.

Glasgow is a city that does not keep still and evolves. Whilst some ship building still takes place on the River Clyde, the city’s role as the pinnacle of shipbuilding excellence in the 20th century, or as it was known ‘Clydebuilt’, is now part of this city’s social and economic past.

Glaschu

The word Glasgow derives from the Gaelic word Glaschu (pronounced Glas-a-hoo) meaning ‘dear green place’. This is a term that has stuck with Glasgow for years as the city boasts nearly 100 parks and gardens. Another term the city has adopted is ‘People make Glasgow’. All you have to do is meet some Glaswegians to understand why this is not just a marketing executives’ creative inspiration, but fact. Glaswegians are full of character, passion, wit and humour. I have certainly found most from Glasgow take the city with them wherever they go. Some may have resettled across the oceans, but they create new lives as proud Scots and always the sons and daughters of Glasgow.

Although nearby Edinburgh gets many more visitors and is unmistakably beautiful, Glasgow has so much to offer the visitor. A wealth of world class and mostly free art galleries and museums are available across the city. Glasgow has a huge creative scene and was in fact the UK’s very first and world’s third city to be designated as a UNESCO City of Music. Glasgow today is a city still full of determination and creativity. A city that this year will celebrate not only its glorious past but its exciting future. Starting this month 850 years of progress will be celebrated with events taking place throughout 2025.

I hope we can share some of the program in future editions and I look forward to being in the ‘dear green place’ myself this month to learn more. The streets of Glasgow remain full of the past and present, I often say to people when in Glasgow look up as many buildings tell of a different Glasgow than the present and modern shopfronts. Glasgow itself is always looking up, and forward, and I look forward to celebrating with the city this year.

In this issue

It is not just Glasgow in the birthday mode, but an iconic Scot is also marking a milestone birthday. Annie Lennox has had a hugely successful music career for many decades and would be part of the soundtrack of many people’s lives. Annie is in fact the only Scottish woman inducted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. However, her catalogue of music success is just part of what makes her such a star. I am not one to gush over too many celebrities, but I do admire Annie Lennox quite a bit, she is a tireless activist and campaigner for human rights and social justice and has used her platform to help so many. Happy birthday Annie and thanks for all the great music and for being an all-round great human!

As we look at a new year perhaps you will make it your new year resolution to book that trip to Scotland? We are highlighting just some of the many things happening this year and that 2025 trip to Scotland really has never looked so good, I know I will be there!

If you happen to be planning a trip to Scotland this year, there is a high chance it will be by air. This month we look back at a unique part of Scottish history when John Damian, also known as ‘The Birdman of Stirling’, attempted a flying experiment using wings made of feathers at Stirling Castle in1507. And though not successful this is the first known flying attempt ever made in Scotland.

Electronic Travel Authorisation

A reminder to our readers who will be visiting Scotland/the UK this year. New for 2025 the UK government is phasing in a new travel scheme which starts this month. It will require people travelling to the UK without a visa to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). From January visitors travelling from Australia, Canada, New Zealand andthe USA (not using a British passport) will require an ETA. An ETA costs £10 per applicant. It will allow multiple journeys and will be valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.

Finally, Scotland’s most famous poet Robert Burns was born on January 25, 1759, in Alloway, Ayrshire, at what is now Burns Cottage. The day of his birth is celebrated today throughout the world as Burns’ Night, with Burns’ Suppers taking place across the globe. Robert Burns was born into a poor farming family and died at the young age of just 37, but the universal appeal of his works continues in 2025. Have a look at our events page in case there is a Burns event near you and to those celebrating I wish you a wonderful time.

Have you visited Glasgow? What is your favourite thing about Glasgow? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

December 2024 (Vol. 48, Number 06)

The Banner Says…

Scotland’s Winter Solstice: A celebration of dark and light

No matter what part of the world you find yourself in during December, this month will bring an extra element of light with Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations across the world. If you are however in Scotland, North America or across the Northern Hemisphere you will be experiencing the darkest, and possibly coldest, days of the year with the winter solstice. The word solstice formed by combining the Latin words sol for ‘sun’ and sistere for ‘to stand still’ and marks the shortest day of light of the year when half of the Earth is tilted the farthest away from the sun.

Meanwhile in the Southern Hemisphere the Earth is titled towards the sun, creating the longest day of the year with thoughts of white Christmas reserved for days at a white, and warm, beach.

New beginnings

In Scotland though the winter solstice (taking place this year on Sunday December 21st at 15:03 GMT) brings not even eight hours of daylight and has for thousands of years been a day of celebration and ritual. Our Celtic ancestors were ruled by the seasons and the shortest day of the year was celebrated as a time of renewal with food, fire and friendship. It was thought that when the midwinter sun goes down it marks the death of the previous year and the rebirth and start of a new year and new beginnings (like crops).

One of Scotland’s most famous historic sites during Winter Solstice must be the Maeshowe tomb in Orkney. For up to three weeks pre and post solstice, as the sun sets a ray of light shines through Maeshowe’s low, narrow passageway to reach the back wall of its inner chamber. The light entering this 5,000-year-old burial cairn has given countless people hope that light will again return on what is the darkest day of the year.

Experts today still are amazed how this was so accurately created and today this engineering marvel draws visitors from around the world. Solstice also meant cattle were slaughtered as food could be quite scarce in the depth of winter in Scotland and could see people through until the spring harvest. This period of time was also used to repair tools, clothing and even relationships, as neighbours and family had to work together to get through a harsh and bleak winter season.

In this issue

I remember vividly hearing the news of the explosion of Pan Am Flight 103 in 1988 over the Scottish town of Lockerbie. This surreal and tragic event remains one of the world’s worst terrorist attacks, which resulted in all 259 passengers and crew on board the Boeing 747 killed when the flight exploded just 38 minutes after take-off from London, with a further 11 Lockerbie residents on the ground losing their life as the plane exploded into their community. The scar for Lockerbie was profound and the impact from that disaster have rippled on for decades, our writer Neil Drysdale was one of the first journalists on the scene in 1988 and his contribution this month honours those victims and those who have worn the scars of grief for so long.

I dare say a few readers may be having a dram over the festive season to celebrate with family and friends. However, at one time in Scottish history this was not so straightforward as that is today. As the government wanted to tax ‘the water of life’ an illegal Scottish whisky trade developed, and smugglers carved out paths of the Scottish countryside to transport their whisky. This period became entrenched in Scottish folklore and song and in order to preserve historic events and we feature this month the story of the ‘Battle of Corrymuckloch’.

Scotland is known for its amazing Hogmanay celebrations and without doubt Edinburgh is the ‘Home of Hogmanay’. I have only been once on that night and know what an energy the night brings so many as Scotland’s historic capital brings a program of tradition and modern rhythm to one of the world’s best New Year celebrations.

A sacred ritual of hope and promise

The winter solstice, known in Gaelic as grian-stad geamhraidh (sun-stop winter), has been a centuries old celebration of the renewal of season and cycle of life. Today the day is marked for most as a celebration the days will soon get longer, but for our ancestors it was a sacred ritual of hope and promise. Something even today we can all draw from.

Several winter solstice customs have evolved to become Christmas traditions the world over such as decorating a tree, using mistletoe, gift giving, the use of light (fire) to create a festive flare and most importantly celebrating with those close to you.

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and Hogmanay season filled with rays of light no matter where, or how, you are celebrating.

Do you follow any solstice or Scottish Christmas or Hogmanay traditions? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

November 2024 (Vol. 48, Number 05)

The Banner Says…

Scots at War

November is often a busy month for many with St Andrews Day events taking place, US Thanksgiving, springtime and all the events coming on in the Southern Hemisphere and the festive season just about to start. However, for one minute on one day this month I always stop and reflect. On the 11th hour, on the 11th day, on the 11th month, I will join so many people around the world as they too pause and remember all those who gave their lives in service to their country.

Domestic battles

Scots have never been one to back down from conflict and Scotland itself has an incredible, tragic and mighty history of warfare. From years of ‘domestic battles’ where Scots fought on home ground with the English, or amongst themselves, to incredible acts of bravery in international conflicts Scots have been there. One of Scotland’s most celebrated battles must be the Battle of Bannockburn which took place in June 1314 and saw Robert the Bruce and his men defeat the much larger English forces in Stirling. The battle remains a symbol of Scotland’s fight for independence today.

The Battle of Culloden in 1746 was the final Jacobite rising and the last battle ever fought on Scottish or British soil. The Jacobites were no match for the Hanoverian army with the battle lasting not even an hour, and the Scottish army was brutally crushed with over 1,200 dead within minutes. Anyone who today visits Culloden Battlefield cannot help but feel moved by this hallowed ground which still today weeps for those lost.

Ladies From Hell

On the battlefields of Europe during WW1 the words ‘Die Damen aus der Hölle’ could heard be spoken. This German phrase translates to ‘Ladies from Hell’ which was the nickname German troops gave to the revered, and kilted, Scottish Highland battalions. Scottish regiments were especially feared as an opposing force, however tragically an estimated 20 percent (nearly 150,000) of Scots who went to war in WW1 never came home, leaving a lasting and immense scar across Scotland. However, the reputation of the ‘Devils in Skirts’ remains part of European military folklore.

Scottish troops played alarge role in both World Wars and also the world’s more recent conflicts and they today are respected the world over. Visitors to Edinburgh can visit the Scottish National War Memorial which commemorates the Scots who lost their lives in conflicts. This moving memorial was built in the 1920s and is located within the walls of Edinburgh Castle, its displays the Roll of Honour for Scots, which names every Scottish casualty killed in conflicts. Several craftspeople were commissioned to create sculptures and stained glass for the memorial, which is today regarded as one of Scotland’s most sacred buildings.

In this issue

Scottish Australian Archibald Clark Kerr was a key figure in British foreign policy and played a major role in bringing WW2 to a close and bringing many Scots and others home. He also played a significant role in the founding of NATO, and we are happy to shine a light on him this month.

This year the historic city of Stirling is celebrating the incredible milestone of its 900th anniversary. Founded by King David I in 1124, the Royal Burgh of Stirling is one of the oldest burghs in Scotland. Since then, the now city has witnessed some incredible moments in Scottish history. It is today a great city to visit with much to do and a programme of events and celebrations are taking place until April 2025.

Another city which is celebrating its 900th anniversary is Edinburgh. Edinburgh is Scotland’s most visited city and offers so much for visitorsto explore. It has stunning views and incredible history around every corner with visitors experiencing the famous castle, Royal Mile and more. This month we highlight some of the lesser-known locations, which you can hopefully incorporate on your next visit to the Scottish capital.

Instrument of War

Think bagpipes and most will quickly link to Scotland. The pipes of course are a global instrument but for Scots they do take on a much deeper cultural and historical importance. One thing the Scottish regiments did have to boost morale during unfathomable times was bagpipes. Pipers served across all the regiments and not only were a great source of moral boosting for the troops, but the haunting sounds also put fear in the enemy. The British Army however did not allow playing of bagpipes during combat because they were thought to expose the piper and troops to danger. The bagpipe is the only musical instrument ever to be considered as a tool of warfare. Scots have long history with the bagpipes used during warfare dating back hundreds of years.

Today, the pipe bands remain deeply associated with Scottish military traditions and still linked to several military institutions. Regardless of where you find yourself this month, I hope you find time to pause and remember all the men and women who gave their all, for all of us. Lest we forget.

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

October 2024 (Vol. 48, Number 04)

The Banner Says…

Caring for Scotland’s castles

Think of Scotland and many will think of tartan, whisky and likely also castles. Those impending fortresses that scream of power, defence and history. The saying ‘if these walls could talk’ surely has no better place to be said than from inside a castle wall. Scotland has castles dotted across the country, some are ruinous remains of the past and others are still incredible sights to be seen.

Any visitor to Edinburgh cannot help but see the mighty Edinburgh Castle which sits atop an extinct volcano and dominates the city centre, it also has the title of Scotland’s most-visited paid-for attraction. Whilst Castle Sween in Argyll is an imposing ruin and thought to be one of the oldest stone castles built in mainland Scotland, dating back to the 1100s.

Every castle has a story to tell

Scotland has had thousands of castles which date back centuries. Every castle has, an often bloody, story to tell and remain an incredibly important part of Scottish history and culture. Caring for these iconic seats of power is a challenge that Scotland takes seriously. The hardfought battles of the past have taken on a new meaning as these heritage sites future proof these iconic, but expensive, places of the past for future generations to enjoy and learn from.

Keeping the incredible original construction protected whilst balancing the needs of modern visitors must be a constant, but crucial, demand for those in their care. One of the organisations that care for many of Scotland’s castles is the National Trust for Scotland (NTS). This year marks 40 years since the NTS took stewardship of the 13th century Fyvie Castle in Aberdeenshire, and has recently begun conservation works to enhance the visitor experience.

Conservation project

The castle makes up a part of Scotland’s Castle Trail in Aberdeenshire, the region known as ‘Scotland’s Castle Country’. Fyvie Castle is considered one of the finest examples of Scottish Baronial architecture in the country with an incredible history. The castle has served as a royal stronghold for King William ‘The Lion’ of Scotland, Robert the Bruce, and served as a home for the infant Charles I.

Essential conservation works have also begun at the 15th century Kisimul Castle in the Outer Hebrides. Kisimul Castle was built on an island in Castlebay, on the Isle of Barra and is the seat of the MacNeils of Barra. The castle’s unique location has caused logistical challenges with helicopters being used to transport some of the heavy equipment and materials to the site.

Earlier this year Craigievar Castle in Aberdeenshire reopened after a complex 18-month conservation project. One of the best-preserved examples of a tower house castle and often nicknamed ‘Scotland’s Cinderella Castle’, Cragievar is famous for its iconic pink colour scheme, stunning 17th century plaster ceilings and original collections and is now able to again tell its fairytale history to visitors.

In this issue

Castles make up just part of a new drive which has been launched in Argyll which celebrates Gaelic culture. You do not need to speak the language to take in some amazing spots on the coast of the Gaels which includes nature, history and celebrates Gaelic language.

I recently had the chance to see Scottish actor, writer and singer Alan Cumming live. The BAFTA, Emmy, Tony and Olivier Award winner transported the audience through both Scotland and his career in words and song. Alan is always on the move and his latest announced project sees him taking up the role as Artistic Director of the Pitlochry Festival Theatre from January 2025.

Dr. Simon Peter Carruthers of Holmains was confirmed in August 2019 by the Lord Lyon King of Arms as Clan Chief of the Clan and Family Carruthers. The Carruthers are an ancient Scottish family from Annandale in the Scottish Borders and recently gathered at their ancestral lands to inaugurate their first chief in over 200 years.

Keeping these strongholds of the past alive today

Successful shows and films such as Outlander have also created a surge in people wanting to see where the past and fantasy intermingled on film. Locations of the hit TV series, which returns soon to television, include Doune Castle (Castle Leoch) and Midhope Castle (Lallybroch) and have seen a huge spike in visitor numbers due to the show.

While every tourist on the road to Skye will no doubt stop at one of Scotland’s most photographed castles, Eilean Donan Castle, which was in fact rebuilt in the 1930’s after being in ruins for hundreds of years. This restoration has made the castle one of the top photo spots in the nation and shows what benefits keeping these strongholds of the past alive today.

I have been renovating my home for over 2 years and it forever feels like an ongoing project. I just cannot imagine what a forever project a historic castle must be, it is however the duty of Scotland to keep these sites protected for those who come after us to enjoy, celebrate and to be part of the future Scottish experience.

Do you have a favourite Scottish castle? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

September 2024 (Vol. 48, Number 03)

The Banner Says…

Investing in Scotland’s tourism

This month last year I touched upon some of Scotland’s great bridges. When it comes to a Scottish bridge, we all of course must think of the iconic Forth (Rail) Bridge. However, this month there are some notable bridge celebrations taking place in Scotland I thought we should share with you.

Forth Road Bridge

This month marks 60 years of the Forth Road Bridge, a major asset of Scotland’s infrastructure. The iconic crossing opened to traffic for the first time on 4th September 1964 and was, at the time, the longest suspension bridge in the world outside the USA. Opened by HRH Queen Elizabeth, the Forth Road Bridge is an incredible 2.5km (2,517 metres) long and is still today one of the world’s most significant long-span suspension bridges.

The idea of the bridge, and even a tunnel was considered, was conceived in the 1920s due to the growing popularity of the motor car. Plans were delayed until 1947 owing to The Great Depression and Second World War. By the 1950s the ferry across the Queensferry Passage was the busiest in Scotland with tens of thousands of crossings a year taking people, vehicles and products across the water.

Scotland saw the success of the 1937 opening of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and eventually construction of the bridge began in 1958, and included Britain’s largest three construction firms collaborating under the banner of ACD Bridge Company Ltd. The consortium included Sir William Arrol & Co. Arrol was the Scottish engineer behind the construction of the incredible Forth Bridge 80 years earlier. A special training school had to be set up in Queensferry to teach contractors how to spin the main cables which were made not far away by Bruntons of Musselburgh.

The Govan – Partick Bridge

Celebrations are also taking place this month in Glasgow with the opening of the Govan – Partick Bridge taking place on Friday, 6 September. This is one of the longest opening pedestrian/cycle bridges in Europe, with a width of six metres and two spans – the moving span, which weighs 650 tonnes, is 99 metres long and uses the South Pier (at Water Row) as its access; and the fixed span, which weighs 45 tonnes and is 15.7 metres long. The bridge will re-establish an historic connection between the two vibrant communities of the city. At one time locals could wade across the Clyde during a low tide, then the Clyde’s mighty ship building industry widened and deepened the river which lost that easy connection.

The Renfrew Bridge

Sailing down the Clyde is also another exciting bridge project opening this autumn. The Renfrew Bridge will open soon and will be the very first opening road bridge across the River Clyde. The bridge includes a two-lane road bridge across the River Clyde for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, which also opens for passing ships.

Spanning 184-metres from Renfrew to the boundary between Glasgow and West Dunbartonshire, new bridge approach roads will connect to the crossing from close to Lobnitz Dock, Renfrew on the south side, to the boundary between Yoker and Clydebank on the north side. The bridge design draws on the area’s rich shipbuilding heritage and will use a cable system like the Queensferry Crossing, a twin-leaf design with each leaf opening and closing horizontally. Many commercial ships travel on the river during high tide, which happens both once during the day and the night. When this happens, the bridge will be closed to road traffic.

In this issue

Pipe bands from around the world again converged on Glasgow for August’s World Pipe Band Championships. Scotland’s Inveraray & District Pipe Band took to the top honour at an event that brought together 7,000 pipers and drummers together at Glasgow Green. We are again happy to include a roundup of this incredible event.

An exciting discovery that has the archaeology community filled with excitement is the Stonehenge Altar Stone came from Orkney. For the past hundred years, the iconic six-tonne Altar Stone at the heart of the ancient site was believed to have come from Wales to Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire. The fact this massive stone travelled so far thousands of years ago, before the wheel was evented, is quite astonishing and further shines some insight into Britain’s Neolithic people.

In 1963 the first Hillman Imp rolled off a Scottish factory floor in Linwood, Renfrewshire. This was to be Scotland’s very own answer to the Austin Mini. Production of the car lasted into the 1970 with approximately 440,000 manufactured. The car had several production issues to contend with and production ceased. The car however is still much loved amongst motor enthusiasts with an estimated 2,000 cars in existence today.

Scottish landmarks

The bridges of Scotland’s past, as well as the latest to open, not only serve as a function of connecting communities, and giving locals and visitors a time saving link, they serve as a landmark for the community to be proud of. I look forward to ‘crossing that bridge when I next come to it’, on my next visit to Scotland.

Do you have a favourite Scottish bridge? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner #NewsForGlobalScots

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

August 2024 (Vol. 48, Number 02)

The Banner Says…

Investing in Scotland’s tourism

As we release this issue the busy tourist season is in full swing in Scotland, with August being one of the biggest months for visitors coming to Caledonia. Sure, you may have to pack that umbrella, or dare I say even a jacket, but the summer months in Scotland are full of world class events, long days of light and nature in full bloom.

2023 was a bumper year for Scottish tourism with a surge in international visitors after what can only be described as several dire years during the Covid pandemic. Scotland welcomed with open arms nearly four million international visitors last year, a figure which tops the nations pre-pandemic records. Visitors from the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia and China had some of the biggest jumps.

And who can blame people for wanting to visit such an outstanding place, Scotland has so much to offer. The history, people, scenery, events, nature and culture are just some of the drawcards that has meant Scotland has outperformed the rest of the UK in tourism growth. Readers of the Scottish Banner hardly need reasons to visit, or to be sold to do so. We all generally know what those millions of other people are so enthralled by!

Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill

However, all those visitors that will spill into Edinburgh’s historic streets this month for the many festivals, hit the Highlands, or drive across the Isle of Skye do put pressure on local councils and can cause a strain on local facilities and infrastructure. Therefore, after many years of lobbying, the Scottish Government have approved the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill. The Visitor Levy will allow local authorities to apply a levy on overnight stays (hotels, B&B’s, holiday lets) with all funds raised to be reinvested in services and facilities largely used by tourists and business visitors. The fee would be an add on to your accommodation rate and help local councils maintain and improve roads, car parks, public toilets, parklands and public spaces.

This will benefit not only the visitor but those locals who live there. The notion of a tourist levy is not new, and you will already find it in place in cities across Europe and beyond. In the UK Manchester just recently introduced one and Wales is also preparing to finalise theirs later this year. Cities such as Venice, Barcelona, Amsterdam and Paris have not reported any significant impact on tourism numbers, in fact numbers continue to climb. It’s not just Scotland welcoming the world this month with Paris hosting the Olympics and they used some of that levy to fund transport costs associated with the Games.

The levy in Scotland is not expected to come into place until the spring of 2026 which will give the industry time to prepare for it. Edinburgh, the most popular tourist destination in the country, has already stated they intend to be one of the first to implement the tax and keep the city as welcoming and enjoyable as possible for everyone.

In this issue

This year marks the 10th anniversary of The Kelpies, the largest equine sculptures in the world located between Falkirk and Grangemouth. Many will be familiar with them whether they have seen them in person or across any number of platforms. They have without question become one of Scotland’s most photographed pieces of modern public art. We are again very fortunate to have the opportunity to speak to Andy Scott, the creator of The Kelpies whose work is celebrated much beyond these incredible and iconic pieces of art.

Something we have only touched on in previous editions would be the role of healing wells in pre-modern Scotland. Scots for years have placed importance on the healing powers of water and several ancient rituals took place at these sites to heal people of their ailments.

It was 80 years ago this month that Flying Officer John Cruickshank, aged 104, was awarded the Victoria Cross, the UK’s highest award for gallantry, for his incredible contribution during the Second World War. The Aberdeen pilot sustained seventy-two separate injuries while sinking a U-boat and is today the last living recipient to have been awarded the VC from that war, and we are so very honoured to highlight Mr Cruikshank in this edition.

The land of our ancestors

Tourism is one of Scotland’s key economic contributors bringing in huge revenue and providing many jobs. In our modern world it is so easy now for many to jump on a plane and visit the land of
our ancestors. Scotland has always been a welcoming place and as more people discover it, more pressure is put on local infrastructure. Not all councils may wish to charge this levy, but you can see why some of the regions in Scotland would want to.

No one likes to pay more for things but if the revenue that this ‘tourist tax’ would bring in, then be invested back into the community, then it is a win for the visitor and locals alike and make being in Scotland that much better.

What are your thoughts on the impending Visitor Levy? Will it change your travel plans to Scotland? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner #NewsForGlobalScots

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

July 2024 (Vol. 48, Number 01)

The Banner Says…

The Battle for Scotland’s history

Scotland’s history cannot be told without mentioning the brutal warfare which took place on its soil. Most of Scotland’s battles related to England as an opponent but some involved the Romans, Vikings and of course some were Scots fighting Scots. Clashes took place across the country and ranged from small skirmishes to major battles with triumphant victories and devastating defeats. These brutal conflicts helped shape Scotland and are forever a part of the Scottish story.

Sacred spaces

Scots gave their lives at these historic sites and for many they are considered not only as sacred spaces but a place of pilgrimage. And whilst blood and suffering are soaked into the ground of these sites, a battle is now again brewing in the heart of Scotland. Recently Stirling Council received a development application to build a trotting track on land of the historic and internationally important Bannockburn Battlefield. The application includes a horse track, bar and toilet facilities and a car park for 200 cars.

In June 1314 the historic Battle of Bannockburn took place as Robert the Bruce defeated the imposing English army and became a defining moment of Scotland’s story. Robert the Bruce is now a Scottish legend and still today evokes pride in Scots around the world, this month is in fact the 750th anniversary of his birth with several events taking place across Scotland. This development risks both damage and the integrity of this historic landscape and setting surrounding the battlefield on one of the most important places in Scotland’s history.

Sadly, this is not a new situation for Scotland as Culloden Battlefield, located just outside Inverness, has also had to grapple with developers wanting to build on these hugely historic and hallowed landscapes.

One of the most pivotal moments in Scottish history

Conservation charity the National Trust for Scotland, who have managed the site since 1943, is now calling on the Scottish Government to intervene to stop this development from going ahead. Stuart Brooks, National Trust for Scotland Director for Conservation and Policy said: “We are extremely disappointed that Stirling Council planning department is considering the proposal for a trotting track at the Whins of Milton site on the nationally designated Battlefield of Bannockburn, and in the single remaining fragment that allows us to understand how the battle unfolded. We are calling for the Scottish Government to pull this planning application to ensure the future of this historic battlefield for the benefit of future generations.

“Bannockburn is much more than just a battlefield. It is the location of one of the most pivotal moments in Scottish history when Robert the Bruce, King of Scots defeated the English army led by King Edward II. The landscape surrounding the battlefield was instrumental in helping Robert’s men beat their English rivals and ensuring the nation’s future.

“The location of the proposed development at Whins of Milton is in the vicinity of where Bruce’s army faced off against the vanguard of Edward’s army on the first day of the battle. It is close to Foot o Green Farm, where the famous duel between Bruce and De Bohun is said to have taken place. Milton Bog formed a defensive screen for the western flank of Bruce’s army on Borestone Brae that would’ve assisted the Scots men in securing victory against Edward and his men.

“Over previous decades much of the historic setting has been lost and we are deeply concerned about any new development that would encroach on this and further erode and degrade this iconic landscape. We are calling for the Scottish Government to step in and save Bannockburn Battlefield from this proposal to ensure the longevity of a site steeped in Scottish history.”

In this issue

This month we highlight Perthshire. Travel booking website booking.com has called Perthshire ‘2024’s Most Welcoming Region on Earth’. We hear from two of the region’s major draw cards, the historically significant and beautiful Scone Palace and theincredible new Perth Museum.

The eyes of the world will be on Paris later this month when the 2024 Summer Olympics, or the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, will take place. There will no doubt be many history making sporting feats made. However, we have focused some of this issue on Paris 1924 when 100 years ago a legendary Scot, Eric Liddell, became known not only for his athletics but his beliefs.

Trimontium Museum in the Scottish Border town of Melrose has done some incredible work looking into Scotland’s past. The museum has used modern technology toreconstruct some of Scotland’s Roman history and quite literally put a face on that time with the ‘Trimontium man’.

Celebrating our 48th year

I cannot also not make mention that this issue marks our 48th year. I do feel every issue we do is somewhat a cause for celebration as this is a business full of challenges, however I know I cannot shout out about it monthly. However, we have come a long way in 48 years with many triumphs, challenges, wins and losses. But we are still here thanks to you!

Our incredible readers and advertisers have allowed the Scottish Banner to remain a part of the international Scottish scene and your support is greatly appreciated. I hope you enjoy your month ahead.

Have you visited a Scottish battle site? Have you visited Perth and Perthshire? Do Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner #NewsForGlobalScots

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

June 2024 (Vol. 47, Number 12)

The Banner Says…

A link to Dundee’s exploration past comes home

It was 150 years ago (February 15, 1874) this year that a baby boy was born in County Kildare, Ireland. He was the second of ten children and at the age of 10 the young boy would move with his family to England. Ernest Shackleton would go on to join the merchant navy at just the age of 16 and a life of exploration and adventure was born.

Shackleton would go on to become a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society of London, and in 1901 he was chosen to go on an expedition to Antarctica led by Antarctic explorer Robert Falcon Scott. The iconic Dundee built Royal Research Ship (RRS) Discovery was made specifically for Antarctic research and launched in 1901. The wooden vessel was the UK’s first purpose-built Antarctic research ship, it was made for the ice and added to Dundee’s reputation for shipbuilding. RRS Discovery is now a popular attraction and permanently moored at Dundee’s Discovery Point alongside the incredible V&A Dundee.

The Boss

Its first venture to Antarctica carried both Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton. Shackleton would then be chosen by Scott to take part in a sledging trek towards the South Pole. This was still early days of Polar exploration and they had basic provisions, but they managed to get closer to the Pole than anyone before them. Sadly weather, illness and inhospitable terrain forced them back and not realise their goals. Shackleton would of course not give up on his dream to make it to the South Pole and would go on to undertake a further three expeditions to the region and during those he inherited the nickname ‘The Boss’ due to his leadership qualities.

In 1904 Shackleton moved to Scotland and became Secretary of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. Office life was not for him and left that role and turned to politics in Dundee but was unsuccessful with that. He also found employment at the Glasgow shipbuilders William Beardmore and Company. Mr Beardmore would go on to support one of Shakleton’s expeditions and have the Beardmore Glacier in Antarctica named in his honour.

Sir Ernest Shackleton

Sir Ernest Shackleton, as he would become, was knighted by King Edward VII. In 1921 the Quest was the fourth and final ship to carry Shackleton to the Antarctic. On January 5th 1922 Shackleton suffered a massive heart attack and died at the age of 47. He never did make it to the South Pole, though he did get close and less than 100 miles from his target. What Shackleton did do was leave a huge legacy of exploration and human endurance. He was laid to rest in South Georgia and his grave headstone is made of Scottish granite.

In this issue

Dunfermline may be Scotland’s newest city, it was awarded city status as part of Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Civic Honours in 2022, that does not stop it from having an incredible history and with a medieval past. Some of Dunfermline’s historic sites are waiting for you to explore and is an easy day trip from Edinburgh.

Greyfriars Bobby must be Scotland’s most famous dog and likely one of the most known, and loved, dogs in history. Some fascinating new images have been released of this faithful companion and one of Edinburgh’s most visited statues and graves. The story of Bobby is just another reason why there is nothing quite like man’s best friend.

Robert McVitie was born in Scotland in 1809. He had a recipe for success with his baking business in Edinburgh. The family business would go on to be a global brand that many of us can now enjoy whether back in the UK or at home internationally with tens of millions of biscuits being sent, and enjoyed, worldwide.

The Hope Cross

As we go to press the RRS Sir David Attenborough is travelling off the Falkland Islands coast bound for the UK. The icebreaker is travelling over 7,000 miles from the southern Atlantic Ocean. On board is a special piece of cargo, the cross from Shackleton’s Hope Point memorial. The Hope Cross was constructed at Grytviken whaling station in South Georgia by crew members of the Quest as a monument to Sir Ernest Shackleton following his death. Measuring almost 3 metres/10 feet tall by 1 metre/3 feet wide and weighing approximately 30kg/65lbs the cross will soon be able to be seen by many more than the few who make it each year to South Georgia.

There can be no place more fitting for Shackleton’s Hope Point memorial to be displayed than at Dundee’s Discovery Point museum; home of the RRS Discovery, the very ship that first carried Shackleton to Antarctica in 1901. This will be the first time it has been in the UK and allow a wider audience to view this important piece of Antarctic heritage and pay its respects to a legendary Polar explorer whose stories are revered the world over. The Hope Cross is due to arrive in Dundee in August and with it a part of Shackleton’s pioneering legacy is returning to Scotland.

Have you visited RRS Discovery? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

May 2024 (Vol. 47, Number 11)

The Banner Says…

Watchers of the Monster

Welcome to May where many will start to visit Scotland’s shores for the upcoming travel season. As the days get longer in Scotland and the weather improves many events start to kick off across the country. One event that is taking place this month is happening at what must be considered Scotland’s most mysterious place, Loch Ness.

For anyone who has visited the UK’s largest body of fresh water will know not only how beautiful it is but also famous. The legend of the Loch Ness Monster, or also lovingly known as Nessie, is known the world over and excites the imagination of many visitors to Scotland.

Sir Edward Mountain

This year marks the 90th anniversary of Sir Edward Mountain’s famous expedition with the ‘Watchers of the Monster’, an expedition in which 20 men with cameras and binoculars were placed around the cold dark waters of the loch for five weeks in 1934. This was the first organised surface watch of Loch Ness, and its very famous resident, with over twenty sightings recorded by Mountain’s team. Sir Edward was a business magnate and the founder of Eagle Star Insurance which became one of the largest insurance companies in the United Kingdom.

Later this month in honour of the anniversary of that expedition a search is again being planned (May 30-June 2nd) with the hopes that our advancing technology will further assist the organisers, Loch Ness Centre and Loch Ness Exploration, in finding some answers to the many questions many still have about the elusive monster.

NASA

Organisers are aware of many potential sightings and strange noises heard from the depths of Loch Ness, The Loch Ness Centre is planning an even bigger search as it continues its goal of uncovering the loch’s mysteries. Whether you are sitting by the edge of the loch looking or perhaps sitting at home across the world and viewing by webcam everyone is being invited to help look for Nessie. This includes scientists and universities, as well as pioneers of exploration NASA to provide equipment and expertise in the search. With new equipment from experts the Loch Ness Centre is hoping science can help uncover the mysteries of the loch and the unexplainable sightings since the Watchers of the Monster expedition 90 years ago.

For several decades there has been reported sightings of Nessie, with the most recent being in April 2024. Last year, one of the biggest searches of Loch Ness took place as we reported, with a hydrophone capturing loud underwater noises and several potential sightings.

Paul Nixon, General Manager of the Loch Ness Centre, said: “Last year we captured the world’s attention with one of the biggest ever searches for Nessie, with participants joining us from America, Canada, France, Italy, Japan and more. With unexplained noises heard, alongside possible sightings, this year we are determined to find out more about the elusive Loch Ness Monster. As well as asking for the help of budding monster hunters to help us on our quest, we are asking for the help of experts. We’re excited to make this search the biggest ever, as we look for new equipment to help us uncover the loch’s biggest mysteries.”

In this issue

Whilst Nessie may hide from the limelight tartan, tweed and Scottish design was proudly on show recently in Toronto for the Dressed to Kilt fashion event. This was the first time the ‘world’s most prestigious Scottish fashion show’ was presented outside the USA and celebrated both Scottish and Canadian designers. Tartan of course was the showstopper and as many readers of this publication will agree, is always in fashion.

With many celebrations taking place across North America last month for Tartan Day it was wonderful to see Highland Dance being recognised in New York City. With dancers from across the world taking part highlighting this skilled tradition of Scottish culture.

I have been fortunate to have visited Culzean Castle, the castle perched on the Ayrshire cliffside, a couple of times. Whether it has been strolling through the grounds or taking in the incredible interiors it really is something you should consider adding to your Scottish itinerary.

Water beast

The Loch Ness Centre, which was reopened last year following a renovation, is located at the old Drumnadrochit Hotel, where, 90 years ago, hotel manageress Mrs Aldie Mackay reported seeing a ‘water beast’ in Loch Ness – sparking our modern-day interest in the phenomenon.

Will the US space agency take up the offer to get involved with the search for one of this planet’s biggest mysteries? Time will tell but it does not take rocket science to know the legend of Loch Ness is bigger than any underwater monster might be and regardless of what they do or don’t discover the legend will live on.

Will you take part in the search for Nessie this month? Have you been to Loch Ness? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

April- 2024 (Vol. 47, Number 10)

The Banner Says…

Celebrating ‘The Mother of Tartan Day’

As many Scottish groups across North America get ready for Tartan Day this April 6th. I recently had the wonderful experience of speaking to an amazing person who not only championed this now continental celebration, but nurtured its birth. Jean MacKaracher Watson still lives in Nova Scotia, on Canada’s east coast, the place where the idea of Tartan Day was born in the 1980’s.

Celebration of Scottish culture

Today Tartan Day is an annual celebration of Scottish culture, heritage and recognises the incredible contributions Scottish immigrants have made to their new lands. Tartan Day events (big and small) across Canada and the US now take place and champion Scotland’s rich culture and the part Scottish ex-pats have had in growing new nations. Jean told me her and fellow Federation of Scottish Clans in Nova Scotia member Bill Crowell were talking about how to get more younger people to join the Federation and active in promoting Scottish culture in Nova Scotia (a province where Scots are the largest ethnic group with approximately 30% of residents being of Scottish descent). Jean said: “At that time everything was old school, and there was nothing for the young.”

A small spark can ignite a large flame

Jean saw that key Scottish dates on the calendar were events such as Burns Night or St Andrew’s Day, which all came from Scotland. Jean and Bill felt they needed their own dates to celebrate and reflect also more of the local Scottish community, so they decided to start a date for Tartan Day and a date for Scottish Canadians. They would choose April 6th, the date of the Scottish Declaration of Independence in 1320, also known as the Declaration of Arbroath, the historic letter to the Pope, asking him to recognise Scotland’s independence and Robert the Bruce as the nation’s king.

Jean would go on to work on Tartan Day all by herself for the next decade to get Tartan Day off the ground, she spent many tireless hours working to get the date recognised. Jean single handedly reached out to every provincial Legislative Assembly in Canada, as well as other Scottish-cultural societies across Canada, to help get such a date established. With the US soon following and the United States Senate declaring Tartan Day to be April 6th in 1998.

Remember Jean would have done all this before we had the internet and emails, she typed every letter and put on every stamp herself. I mentioned to Jean how incredible it is that from a small meeting in Nova Scotia in the 1980’s we now have a continental celebration recognised by state, provincial and national governments, Jean said “It’s absolutely incredible what has happened, and it really is amazing how a small spark can ignite a large flame.”

International Tartan Day

For our Australian and New Zealand readers International Tartan Day is held on July 1st. This date marks the 1782 anniversary of the repeal of the 1747 Act of Proscription that banned the wearing of tartan and the attempt to extinguish the Highland clan system. Having two Tartan Day’s around the world can certainly be confusing for many and perhaps an annual global day would create more traction, I would certainly be interested in hearing people’s opinion on this.

In this issue

From Scotland’s woodlands to the ice of an Alaskan winter Jonny Stableford, aka Jonny Chainsaw, has literally carved out a fascinating career creating sculptures in wood and ice. Jonny recently travelled from Falkirk to Alaska to take part in the World Ice Art Championships. Chainsaw carving is certainly an art, and we are happy to highlight this fascinating Scot’s work.

The Isle of Canna is the westernmost of the Small Isles archipelago, in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. This month we feature how one man traded up his life in London to open Café Canna. Gareth Cole has had to adapt to island life, good and bad, and this month opens his doors again to what has been dubbed ‘the most remote restaurant in Britain’.

The Mother of Tartan Day

This year Jean will be speaking at a Tartan Day function in Halifax, Nova Scotia and some 40 years later Jean is still promoting Tartan Day and Scottish culture. Jean has opened the door for all of us to take part and grow Tartan Day and as she told me, “There is just so much you can do with Tartan Day and that is a wonderful thing” and she is not wrong there. Jean added that it was in fact the Scottish Banner’s Valerie Cairney that gave her the very appropriate nickname ‘The Mother of Tartan Day’, a term which is often still used today.

Thank you, Jean, for all you have done over several decades, especially all those hours most will never know about that you have put in and for being so selfless and determined. Jean is
our feature letter in this issue, and you can read her comments on our Scotpourri page. Jean’s legacy to the Scottish community is clear and we are so very happy to honour that here this month.

Are you celebrating Tartan Day? What are your thoughts on two dates being used around the globe for Tartan Day?

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

March- 2024 (Vol. 47, Number 09)

The Banner Says…

Celebrating a Celtic mosaic

Scotland is a land of rugged landscapes, ancient castles, dramatic history and haunting bagpipe melodies and certainly has its very own unique and rich culture, but it also shares deep-rooted connections with other Celtic nations.

Celtic DNA

A letter we ran in the February edition caught my eye as our reader claimed to mostly be Scottish but also had a ‘Celtic DNA mosaic” and ‘a healthy dose of Irish, Welsh and English’ flowing through them. I am sure many of us do, and some may not be aware of how far reaching our Celtic bloodlines travel. I know our family blood is multi-generational Scottish but can also be traced back to the cathedral town of Letterkenny in north-west Ireland for example.

This month some of our Celtic family celebrate their unique, but linked, cultures. The Welsh will be celebrating the life of their patron saint, St David, and the Welsh culture on March 1st. Saint Piran’s Day is celebrated each year on 5th March in Cornwall and the Irish will be out in full force on March 17th in a sea of green celebration.

Part of tradition

Whilst there is no one ‘Celtic language’ there is an estimated two million speakers of the six Celtic languages in existence (Breton, Cornish, Irish, Manx, Scottish Gaelic and Welsh). Irish (Gaelic) speakers are by far the highest of that number, with an estimated over one million speakers. This is followed by Welsh and Breton speakers. Scottish Gaelic (Gàidhlig) comes in fourth and is a language we highlight regularly in this publication, and the Highlands and islands remain strongholds of Gaelic culture in Scotland. Positively more than 1.5 million people have started learning Scottish Gaelic on Duolingo (a language learning app) since it launched four years ago. Finally Manx and Cornish round up the six Celtic languages still spoken today.

Storytelling is a big part of all Celtic cultures. What Celt doesn’t love to tell a tale, these parts of social history are passed down generation to generation and weave themselves into the story of the nation and part of tradition. Legends, folklore, mythology, facts and fiction all create enchanting tales of magic, heroes, and otherworldly creatures for Celts. Cornwall, Scotland and Wales all lay some claim to King Arthur for example. While the Irish, Scots and Manx all share the mythological Celtic ancestor, Cailleach, the veiled goddess of winter.

Of course, one place we all revel in storytelling is in Celtic music, the stories, humour and sense of place a melody can give is an integral part of any Celtic nations culture and melody.

In this issue

International Women’s Day takes place this month on March 8th, we are again highlighting another great Scottish female trailblazer. Pioneering Glasgow-born filmmaker Jenny Gilbertson created documentary films of a Shetland life that is no more. She also went on to make her mark on Canadian film. You can catch her work this month in Scotland or from home via a special livestream.

One of Orkney’s many historic sites is Hackness Martello Tower and Battery which was built to protect British convoys in the early 1800s. Fortunately the site never had hostile action happen, but it does offer a unique insight into what military life was like more than 200 years ago.

Dunoon Burgh Hall opened in 1874 to celebrate the conferring of Burgh status for the town and was built to provide the local community with a public hall, municipal offices, and the very first theatre in Argyll. Over the last 150 years this Category B-listed Scottish Baronial landmark has hosted numerous events and been a focus for community celebration and connection and we are fortunate to highlight yet another great Scottish historic building.

Celtic spirit

The link Scotland has with other Celtic nations, transcends borders, and is woven through a history, language, culture, and a shared sense of Celtic identity. Whether through folklore, music, landscapes, food or shared struggles, these bonds remind us that the Celtic spirit endures and we certainly all share some common ground with one another.

Scotland of course runs through the veins of most reading this, and the Scottish Banner itself, but that does not mean we don’t intertwine, celebrate, champion and appreciate the incredible Celtic cultures found across the Celtic nations. Celts travelled far and wide before borders were a thing, and perhaps many of us can link our bloodlines across Europe. Could you have more than just Scottish ancestry and your blood line links to Ireland, Wales, the Isle of Man, Cornwall, Brittany or Galicia? Beyond that of course many may linto a variety of European and beyond ancestries.

Being a Celt is like being part of an even larger family, and that surely must be one of the great aspects of our shared Celtic spirit.

Do you have a variety of Celtic ancestry? Do you follow any Celtic traditions outside of Scottish? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

February – 2024 (Vol. 47, Number 08)

The Banner Says…

Scottish leap year traditions

 

This month may be the shortest one of the year, but we do get one extra day with 29 days on this leap year.

The first leap year in the modern sense in Britain was in 1752, when 11 days were ‘lost’ from the month of September with the adoption of the Gregorian calendar by Britain and the British colonies.

Marriage proposal

In Scotland, a strange custom developed on a leap year where women could ask a man for his hand in marriage. The woman was supposed to wear a red or scarlet coat on the day of the proposal. It is thought the idea originated in Ireland in the 5th century when St Brigid asked St Patrick to allow women to be able to propose to men, as some women felt they had to wait too long for a matrimony request.

The custom is believed to have been brought to Scotland by Irish monks. Whilst this may not seem strange today back in Scottish history it was actually illegal for a woman to propose, except every four years at leap year day. It was Queen Margaret of Scotland who passed a law in 1288 that any man who refuses a Leap Day proposal should be fined, with the penalty anything from £1 to a silk gown (so it might be bad luck for anyone rejecting their sweetheart on 29 February). So, no pressure for the chap that had the question popped to them!

Should you be a lady, and a traditionalist, and not have a suitable gentleman to ask for his hand in marriage this month, I am afraid your next opportunity will not be until 2028, or if you are very choosy perhaps you will need to wait to 2032 or 2036 which are also upcoming leap years.

Leapling

Should a marriage proposal be excepted on February 29th Scots traditionally avoided getting married on that date as it brought bad luck to the marriage and often divorce. Scots also considered it to be unlucky to be born on a leap day. It was thought that “leapling” or a leap baby were more difficult to raise and often unwell. However according to astrologers, babies born on February 29 (Pisceans) will grow up to have unique talents, including a great deal of creativity and the ability to give sound advice.

Scottish farmers worry about their crops and livestock on a leap year. The Farmer’s Magazine of 1816 reported that in Scotland: ‘leap year never was a good sheep year’ and it is thought to bring bad luck to farmers, especially for sheep farmers.

In this issue

One person who will be glad it is a leap year to keep up with his busy schedule is Coinneach MacLeod, or as many know him as The Hebridean Baker. We are fortunate to again chat to Coinneach on his new book and love of the Hebridean food and culture. And for those in Toronto, Canada, they can actually see him on leap year day!

The Stone of Destiny, or Stone of Scone, was used for the coronation of Scottish kings for generations and is considered one of Scotland’s most ancient and historic objects. It is one which is surrounded by intrigue, controversy and division. The stone was removed from Westminster Abbey on Christmas day in 1950 by four students with several articles, books and a film about it being made. However, Tam Smith also played his role in the stones time in Scotland, and we are so happy to be sharing his story.

One of the most famous events in the recent history of the Western Isles was the wreck of the SS Politician on the 5th of February 1941. The ship was bound for the West Indies and
America and ran aground off Eriskay with thousands of bottles of whisky and became famous with the book and movie Whisky Galore.

Romantic places

Last year national tourism board VisitScotland conducted a survey of the country’s most romantic places people would most like to visit with their partner. At joint top spot was the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye (33%) with both locations filled with stunningly beautiful scenery, followed by Edinburgh (30%) which is filled with historic places and post card perfect locations.

Other contenders were the Lothians (28%) which includes East Lothian, Midlothian, and West Lothian which all blend fantastic scenery and picturesque towns. At joint fourth was Stirling and Loch Lomond & the Trossachs (26%) with the historic city of Stirling celebrating 900 years this year and the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond a favourite holiday spot for Scots for generations, and finally at joint fifth was Orkney and Shetland (23%) whose unique Viking traditions and dramatic coastlines is unparalleled.

Most Scottish Banner readers will have a strong link to Scotland and special connection to the welcoming people, rich music scene, unique culture, dramatic landscapes, historic buildings, romantic castles and its fascinating story. Perhaps you too will be looking to leap back to Scotland this leap year, just as I am, enjoy your month…

Do you follow any unique leap year traditions? Do you have a favourite romantic part of Scotland to visit? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

January – 2024 (Vol. 47, Number 07)

The Banner Says…

A resolution for a good Ne’erday

It is a question we all get asked this time of the year, “what is your New Year resolution?” As we start a new year fresh with good intentions, and promise of improving ourselves, many of us certainly try and come up with some manageable improvements we would like to see for ourselves.

This global phenomenon of self reflection starts the year with the best of intentions but seems only some will follow through with the mental reset for all of 2024. I actually was not aware it was a woman with strong Scottish connections that started this unique way of wiping the slate clean and starting the year with new goals.

Though the very first known New Year’s resolutions in fact date back over 4,000 years ago to ancient Babylon. The Babylonians are said to have made a pledge to their gods during the 12-day January New Year festival called Akitu. If they fulfilled their pledge the gods would look favourably on them, their crops, animals and family.

Anne Halkett

However, it was not until 1671 that a New Year resolution was known to be written in Scotland. Anne Halkett was born in England in 1622 to parents from a prominent family of Scottish descent and would eventually herself move to Scotland in 1650. Anne was an educated woman, deeply religious, a talented writer, a mid-wife and part of Scotland’s elite. In January 1671 Anne wrote in her diary a series of religious based pledges which she titled ‘resolutions’. These were lists she made for herself to improve for the year approaching.

This personal pledge would go on to eventually evolve and become a New Year resolution for billions across the globe over hundreds of years. Anne herself would go on to live quite a life and wrote about much of 17th century Scotland and her works can be found at the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh. She was even involved in the dramatic rescue of James, Duke of York, who later became James II from Parliamentary captivity by disguising him as a female! Anne lived a long life, for those times, and was able to make many resolutions each New Year and died at age 76 in Dunfermline, Fife in 1699.

In this issue

Perhaps one of your New Year resolutions is to travel back to Scotland?! 2024 is looking to be quite a year for both visiting Scotland and for Scottish culture across the world. After a few terrible years for tourism and events we look ahead to 2024’s key happenings, destinations and anniversaries. I hope you get to enjoy some of Scottish culture throughout the year, regardless of if you are visiting Scotland or not.

One part of January tradition must be shortbread. January 6th is in fact National Shortbread Day and shortbread is an icon of Scottish cuisine. There will be many Burns Night celebrations taking place across the world this month (see our events page for one perhaps close to you) and no doubt shortbread will be a part of many of them. We are delighted to have Sir Jim Walker speak to the Scottish Banner this month from Walker’s Shortbread, this family business has an incredible 125 years of history-much to the delight of millions of people’s tastebuds across the world.

Another tradition which will be carried out across the world this Hogmanay and Burns Night is raising a glass to have a wee dram, or two. Whisky is another one of Scotland’s icons and this month we look at the history of Campbeltown, the small town on the Mull of Kintyre peninsula. Campbeltown is a major part of Scotland’s whisky history and has even been referred to as ‘Spiritsville’, ‘Whiskyopolis’ and even the quite prestigious title of ‘The Whisky Capital of the World.’ Though diminished this region still has a proud whisky industry with more distilleries in the works, and I will raise a glass to that!

2024

I have not yet decided whether to honour Anne Halkett and make a resolution for the upcoming year yet, but I am certainly looking to keep my connection to Scotland growing stronger. As 2024 unfolds before us I wish all our readers, advertisers and friends a wonderful happy, healthy and safe year ahead. I also wish all those across the world attending Burns Night events this month a wonderful time celebrating Scotland’s bard Robert Burns.

Whether you make a resolution for the year ahead, or not, may it be a good one for all of us. Lang may your lum reek, as the Scots say traditionally at New Year, or to good health and long life or more literally ‘long may your chimney smoke’.

Do you make New Year resolutions? Do you have any favourite Scottish customs at the festive period?  Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.

We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

December – 2023 (Vol. 47, Number 06)

The Banner Says…

Christmas traditions of Scotland’s isles

The month ahead is often busy for many with Christmas and Hogmanay events, and catching up with family, friends and colleagues. Most of us eat
a bit more than we should, enjoy a dram, or two, and hopefully also get some time to rest and reset for the year ahead. Children across the world also are filled with the excitement and magic that only Christmas can bring.

Krampus

The Christmas we all know today, with excited children lining up to sit on Santa’s knee and put in their order for the big day, it may come as a surprise to many that in one part of Scotland a Christmas tradition was to frighten the children.

On the Hebridean island of Islay fear was put into any children, who behaved badly, that a creature would appear during the festive season to visit them. Parents would tell their kids terrifying tales of the Krampus, a goat-demon monster who took great joy in terrifying naughty youngsters.

Known on the island as the Crom Dubh na Nollaig (the dark crooked one of Christmas) this monster would howl down people’s chimneys in the night and beat kids with birch branches. The Scots somehow incorporated the Krampus legend from Europe where the name derives from the German word Krampen, which means to claw. Krampus is thought to date back to Pagan times as a ritual around the winter solstice period and was popular mainly in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. How the Alpine legend made its way to Islay is not known, but I would imagine that the children of Islay were quite well-behaved.

Whipkül

Both Orkney and Shetland share their love of Yule bread. This tasty tradition is linked to a Celtic druid belief that the sun stood still for the mid-winter period, so the Yule bread was made in a circle, which represented the sun. The bread included caraway seeds to represent Sìdhe, or the winter spirits, in Celtic folklore. It was often traditional for the baker of Yule bread to hide something in the loaf, like a trinket, and who ever finds it has good luck for the year ahead.

Shetland’s answer to Eggnog has to be Whipkull/Whipkül. With its origins in Scandinavia, Whipkull is a traditional drink made with cream, eggs, nutmegs and rum (however people have been known to substitute that for whisky or another preferred spirit). This drink, often accompanied with a nice piece of shortbread, has been known as a dessert to be consumed at the end of the Yule feast and even a breakfast drink on New Years Day-what a way to start the year!

In this issue

If you happen to find yourself in Scotland this holiday season you may be interested in our feature on Scotland as a winter destination. I have been to Scotland countless times over winter and can confirm there is much on offer for the visitor. Crowds are down and though not everything is open, much is, and the scenery is always on display regardless of those shorter and darker days.

The Albion Motor Car Company was founded in Glasgow in December 1899 and was an iconic business for Scotland. From its inception through to the late 20th century Albion Motors was a major employer of generations of local people, producing at first cars, then commercial vehicles at its Scotstoun site for over 65 years.

Thought to be Glasgow’s oldest building Provan Hall overlooks Auchinlea Park in Easterhouse. It was built in the 15th century as a hunting lodge for Glasgow Bishops. This hidden historic gem recently had a £3.5million restoration and I will be sure to add it to my list when next back in Glasgow.

Foula

For most of us once Christmas and Hogmanay are finished with, we feel we need a wee break as we roll into January after all the festivities. However, for one Scottish island the festivities are just beginning. The island of Foula lies 20 miles from the Shetland coast and has been also known as Ultima Thule, or ‘the edge of the world’.

Its population of approximately 35 residents follows the Julian calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar, which means they celebrate Old Christmas (or as it is known Yule) on January 6 and New Year’s Day on January 13. As the rest of the UK adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1752 it does not appear that Foula is in any rush to catch up with their mainland cousins, and for me that is just another reason Scotland is just so amazing.

I wish you and your Clan a wonderful and safe holiday season. Merry Christmas, or to our Gaelic readers Nollaig Chridheil, and thank you to all our readers, advertisers and friends for their support during the year.

Have you enjoyed a Scottish island holiday tradition? Do you have any favourite Scottish customs at the festive period?  Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

November – 2023 (Vol. 47, Number 05)

The Banner Says…

Flying high above Scotland’s islands

For many tourists a visit to Scotland’s diverse range of islands involves a leisurely and picturesque ride on a ferry of Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac).
However, for those that live on the nearly 800 majestic isles air services are a vital connection to mainland Scotland, and beyond. As we go to
press with this issue a scheme is being launched for islanders who will be able to access the lowest fares on the Scottish Government-supported air services serving Barra and Tiree.

The Residents Fare Card will cap fares for island residents and ensure they always have access to the cheapest tickets, even during peak periods. This lifeline to the mainland will allow those isolated residents to make medical appointments not available on the islands, visit family, travel for work or study and other key travel purposes.

Scotland boasts some quite unique island air services which stand out in the world of aviation today. Firstly would have to be the world’s shortest flight, which takes place in Scotland’s far north. The shortest scheduled passenger flight in the world is operated by Loganair between Westray and Papa Westray in Orkney. Whilst the flight is scheduled for just one and a half minutes, the 1.7-mile journey often lasts less than a minute. Loganair, Scotland’s regional airline that services Scotland’s Highlands and islands, flies the route which connects on to Orkney’s largest centre Kirkwall.

On the Isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides is one of the world’s most unique airports located on the northern part of the island. Barra Airport is located on Traigh Mhor beach where flights land at the world’s only beach with scheduled air services. Flights to Barra from Glasgow are not set to popular travel times, but rather flight schedules are always changing as they depend on the tidal flows. The runway washes away at high tide and reappears at low tide.

Lying between Shetland and Orkney lies the Fair Isle with a population of just 60 residents, making it one of Britain’s most remote inhabited islands. On the island is one of the UK’s smallest airports which is quite uniquely run by the National Trust for Scotland. Loganair is bringing back flights to the Fair Isle in 2024 to coincide with the reopening of the Fair Isle Bird Observatory, which sadly burned down in 2019. Looking ahead to travel to the islands of Scotland may soon look to take a greener approach as companies are looking to Scotland to lead the way for more environmentally friendly air travel using new technologies such as electric or hydrogen net-zero aircraft.

In this issue

I still can recall as a child my very first trip to Glasgow Prestwick Airport. Our family would have been coming from Canada to see our Scottish family and as the plane descended
over the Ayrshire countryside, I knew I was somewhere different. I vividly remember the large check in hall and the complete sense of excitement that I was travelling on a plane
brought. This month we hear about the key role Prestwick has played in Scottish aviation history and connecting Scotland with the world.

Each August in Scotland there are hundreds of events taking place, but for one region all roads lead to Lonach. The Lonach Highland Games are presented by the Lonach Highland and Friendly Society which was established in 1823. The Games had a big visitor this year and has a long history of Scottish tradition.

This year a project was launched to mark the centenary of the repopulation of the Minginish peninsula on the beautiful Isle of Skye. The area of Skye had been cleared out during the 1800s and in 1923 families were brought from across Harris, Lewis and other parts of Skye to repopulate the area. This would become the largest single repopulation undertaken in Scotland because of the ‘land for heroes’ initiative after the First World War.

Fergus

Some readers may remember when last year I included my dog Fergus in these pages. Several people wrote in after seeing Fergus and told us about their pets and how rewarding life was with them. Sadly, I lost Fergus recently and his loving face is no longer under my desk as I write these editorials. Fergus in his very own unique way helped each month with the publication of the Scottish Banner, he reset me on deadlines when stress increased and helped me more times than I can remember to get through a day. The office, and my home, are now a much quieter place and I will miss him terribly.

Thank you, Fergus, for giving me over 12 years of incredible love, loyalty and family, it certainly was an honour to walk beside you every day, and for leaving me with so many
happy memories of a life very well lived which I will always treasure.

This month also see’s Scots around the world gather for St Andrews Day on (or around) November 30th. If you are celebrating, I hope you enjoy some great food, company and of course a wee dram.

Have you taken a flight to a Scottish island?  Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

October – 2023 (Vol. 47, Number 04)

The Banner Says…

That’s my uncle
Remembering John Cairney

It has been a question I have been asked throughout my life, are you related to John Cairney and my reply has always proudly been “That’s my uncle”. John Cairney was the oldest of two boys growing up, quite happily, in the 1930s in an impoverished and now pulled-down tenement in the east end of Glasgow.

Robert Burns

Most may remember him for his association with Robert Burns, to this day many still consider John Cairney the leading exponent of Scotland’s bard. He wrote and toured shows about Burns, wrote books on him and was one of the world’s leading authorities of Burns. For me for some time I thought he was Robert Burns, I was of course much younger, but I did think for a time that was his job much like someone may be a doctor, chef or policeman.

Few would mention John Cairney without soon mentioning Burns. I have vivid memories of him calling me up on stage to hold a haggis whilst he performed to his audience, something that was so completely embarrassing for a 12-year-old. I did however always take note of how he used his voice to command a room, from great bellowing tones to the most soft and intimate tone which had people sat on the edge of their seats to hear each softly spoken word, he was a true genius in live performance.

I recall as a boy every time he flew in from Scotland to see us (which generally involved a performance by him both on stage or around dinner table), I was so excited, this is back in a time where you rarely received an overseas call as they were so expensive, and an international visitor was something to get excited about. I would always draw my uncle a welcome picture on my school paper, and I was always filled with excitement when he would tell me all the tales of his travels. From working on film sets in far flung places to finishing off a script for a show touring Scotland, it all sounded so exotic to me as a child, and I was fascinated by him.

For those who enjoy the Scottish Banner today might be also interested to know it was partly because of my uncle’s performances in Canada that the seed was planted to start the Banner, we had tickets to sell and had to tell people! This of course was in a time of no internet and 47 years later the Scottish Banner still is enjoyed by readers across the world, a small part of his great legacy.

That boy from Glasgow’s east

Uncle John had a multi decade career in the arts. His acting resume included films such as A Night to Remember, Cleopatra and Jason and the Argonauts, as well as starring in the BBC 1960s show This Man Craig. His live performances took place all over the world and he really was a true global citizen. Uncle John penned several books, mostly on Scottish topics and well worth a read. His creative flow also was expressed through his art, many would think he was a late bloomer with paint, but he actually loved art from a young age, but fate would lead him to Royal Conservatoire of Scotland’s very first acting program and art would come back into his life at a later stage. However my uncle, that boy from Glasgow’s east, was so much more.

Firstly, for me, he was my uncle, whom I am half named after. Both my parents had just one sibling, both called John and I am lucky enough to be named after these two great men, as Sean is the Irish form of John. He was my father’s big brother and such a very proud Glaswegian, the city which he loved and like my father, carried with him wherever he was in the world. Uncle John was also passionate about his family, his craft, football and his spirituality. He was a true performer and anyone who even had dinner with him will know what I mean, my uncle had an incredible voice and language ability which he used to great skill.

A life well lived

My Uncle John passed away in his beloved Glasgow last month at the age of 93. I was very fortunate to see my Uncle John a couple of times in Glasgow earlier this year. I could and would never not see him if I was in town. A few months later and the final time I spoke to him he sounded really good and told me how he still enjoyed his days in Glasgow.

He was also a regular reader of the Scottish Banner and said what a wonderful publication it is and that I was doing a great job with it, this for me was the highest form of compliment, coming from a man who was the best wordsmith and mind our family has ever produced. He also told me his life was like a beautiful cake and he was at the stage of simply enjoying the icing of an incredible life, and a life very much well lived.

Uncle John leaves behind his beloved wife Alannah, five children, nine grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. Thank you, Uncle John, for leaving the world with an outstanding lifetime of work. And as you take your final curtain call and exit the stage, I will continue to give you a standing ovation not just because of the gift you left us all with, but because quite simply… that’s my uncle.

Do you have a favourite John Cairney performance or book? Did you ever see him live?  Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

September – 2023 (Vol. 47, Number 03)

The Banner Says…

Scotland’s connection to bridges

Looking at some of the dates in this edition’s This Month in Scottish History page, I could not help but notice some of Scotland’s premier bridges get a mention. We all know why bridges are built, to help link two places and very much serve a function.

A bridge is a key part of any nations infrastructure and assist in linking communities, improving travel times and building business. However, bridges are so much more than just being functional. A bridge can have a strong historical or cultural importance and become part of the scenic landscape of a place. Scotland has bridges of all shapes, sizes, ages and lengths found across the country.

The Forth Bridges

Perhaps Scotland’s most famous and iconic bridge would have to be the incredible Forth (Rail) Bridge. The oldest of Scotland’s Forth Bridges this incredible bridge opened in March 1890 and was at the time the longest single cantilever bridge span in the world. I have travelled across this marvel of Scottish engineering several times and have been fortunate to get some great aerial views on flights out of Edinburgh. The Forth Bridge took seven years to build and is made with red steel and around six million rivets. The bridge spans 8,094 feet or 2.5kms and was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2015. This bridge, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, must be my favourite bridges in the world that I can look at and never tire of seeing.

Today the Forth Bridge is kept in good company as it shares the Firth of Forth estuary with both the Forth Road Bridge and the Queensferry Crossing. The Forth Road Bridge opened 59 years ago this month, in 1964, and the bridge’s two main towers include a fitting St Andrew’s Cross design. This bridge was born due to an influx of cars on Scottish roads to link the Edinburgh region to the north of Scotland. The Forth Road Bridge is now only used by pedestrians, cyclists, emergency services and public transport.

Six years ago, this month, The Queen opened the latest and longest transport addition to the Forth bridges, The Queensferry Crossing. This bridge was planned for today’s volume of cars and replaced the Forth Road Bridge as the main road route between Edinburgh and Fife and can carry 24 million vehicles a year.

One bridge I have walked and driven across numerous times is Glasgow’s Clyde Arc, or as
affectionately known locally as the ‘Squinty Bridge’, which opened this month in 2006. This bridge spans the River Clyde connecting Finnieston in Glasgow’s West End with Pacific Quay and Govan on the south side of the city. The bridge looks fantastic day and night as it reflects the Clyde and compliments the many modern iconic buildings you now find in this part of Glasgow such as the Scottish Exhibitions Centre, The Hydro and the Glasgow Science Centre, whom all sit amongst one of my favourite Glasgow icons the Finnieston Crane.

In this issue

So much of the pipe band world recently descended on the streets of Glasgow for this year’s World Pipe Band Championships, and PipingLive! The dedication of these performers to not only consistently practice to such a high level but also represent their country on the world stage is something to admire. For many bands this also included a hefty flight and travel costs. We are delighted to feature a highlight of the World’s in this issue.

Think of wildlife in the Scottish Highlands and you may perhaps think of Highland coo’s, deer, birdlife or even an illustrious monster! However, at the Highland Wildlife Park you can also ge up close and personal with various native animals like the Scottish wildcat, as well as species from across the globe such as snow leopards, Amur tigers, Japanese macaques and Scotland’s only polar bears (which includes one baby). All amongst the incredibly stunning scenery of Cairngorm National Park, the UK’s largest National Park.

It was over 150 years ago the third Duke of Sutherland, who was a railway enthusiast, brought a railway to Brora in Sutherland. The Duke also built his very own railway station at Dunrobin Castle, near the village of Golspie. Dunrobin station remains in the ownership of the Sutherland Estate and is believed to be the only such station on the UK rail network to have been planned, paid for and opened by just one person.

Connects us all when in Scotland

Scotland of course has far too many bridges to mention in this article. From the very famous and picturesque Glenfinnan Viaduct where the Jacobite steam train runs from Glenfinnan to Fort William and Mallaig, and made famous by the Harry Potter franchise. To the controversial Skye Bridge, which links the Scottish mainland with the stunning Isle of Skye. This bridge which was once considered the most expensive road toll in Europe is now free for all to enjoy a drive ‘over the sea to Skye’. Right down to the small, but so photographed, Swilcan Bridge found on the 18th hole at the Home of Golf, St Andrews.

Perhaps you have a bridge that means something to you, a bridge whose engineering marvels you, or has simply helped you get around Scotland a little easier? We would love to hear readers comments on their favourite bridges that quite literally connects us all when in Scotland.

Do you have a favourite Scottish bridge?  Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

August – 2023 (Vol. 47, Number 02)

The Banner Says…

The fascination of the Loch Ness Monster

I always remember my very first visit to Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands and taking in the stunning scenery of the area and visiting the ruins of Urquhart Castle on the bonnie banks of the loch (a Gaelic word for lake). I also spent an above average amount of time skimming the loch for anything unusual in the cold and dark waters below. Of course, I was seeing if I would become world famous by being that person who spotted ‘Nessie’, something so many fail in year in and year out.

Regardless of what you think is the true story of Nessie, our imagination and sense of ‘what if’ can take hold when you are looking out at the vast open water before you at Loch Ness.

Nessie

If you have yet to visit Loch Ness you may be surprised just how big it is, in fact it is the largest body of fresh water in all of the UK (by volume). With a depth of 788 feet/240 metres and a length of about 23 miles/36 km it is a vast and stunning body of water. And though Loch Lomond is larger and Loch Morar deeper than Loch Ness, this infamous loch contains more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined!

However, the reason why Loch Ness is the most famous of Scotland’s over 30,000 lochs is because of the mythical creature we all know as the Loch Ness Monster, or Nessie. Just recently the latest recording of a sighting of the monster was lodged for 2023. That now makes three claims of sightings to have taken place, in April, May and June from Scottish, American and French visitors. In 2022 six sightings were reported and you can read about each one and see any images to back up the claims at: www.lochnesssightings.com.

These recent sightings of course are not new, and the first reported dates go all the way back to 565AD when St Columba first saw the water beast and a legend was born. In our modern history nearly 1,200 sightings have been recorded and sightings really took off from the 1930s.

The legend

Not only has the legend of the Loch Ness monster fuelled our imaginations for generations, but it has also had a hugely positive impact to the local economy with estimates being the elusive monster brings in £41 million locally, with hotel nights, cruises, tours, tea towels, magnets and more.I even admit that before writing this article I did do my ‘research’ and scanned the waters, or should I say webcams, which you can watch at anytime at:
www.visitinvernesslochness.com/livestream, should you have any better luck at ‘Nessie hunting’ from your home and spot something which could be the monster please do get in touch!

Loch Ness Monster is still searched for on Google and other search engines on the internet hundreds of thousands of times a year from people all over the world. The allure is still there and maybe it is fuelled by our imaginations and the love of the story, but I cannot think of any other country in the world who has a creature that sparks so much interest, yet most have never seen and even more likely not even believing in.

To date no concrete evidence exists that Nessie is or was ever real, but that is ok as the legend is very much real.

In this issue

To locals it must feel like the world is descending on the streets of Edinburgh this month with all the Edinburgh festivals taking place. One of the premier events returning is The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, we have some details of the cast line up and some images whet your appetite and whether you are attending in person or perhaps waiting to see it later in the year on the big screen or at home I hope you enjoy one of the world’s greatest shows.

Should you happen to be in the Scottish capital over the next couple of months you may also wish to take a moment from the hustle and bustle and head to the Floral Clock. Located in West Princes Street Gardens and this year honouring the Flying Scotsman train it really is something to see, and smell, as you take in the world’s oldest Floral Clock.

This month we have the third instalment from David C. Weinczok’s favourite Scottish site series. This month David takes us far back in time to Scotland’s early history focusing on sites from the Roman through Viking Ages, often a time we do not hear about in history and the fact a visitor to Scotland can still connect with it is amazing.

Truly magic

Over generations stories have circulated across the world of a mythical creature roaming the deep waters in the Scottish Highlands. Scotland is good at folklore, and this surely must be up there with one of its most famous tales. The monster is known the world over and has garnered the fascination of millions of people.

There is of course a benefit to Scotland that the idea of Nessie continues, but it is the fascination of the story that is truly magic. When I next visit the Highland beauty spot, I know I will join many alongside me having a look, just in case… it is something that we can all take part in and enjoy and that in of itself is truly special.

Have you been to Loch Ness? Have you ever caught a glimpse of Nessie? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

July – 2023 (Vol. 47, Number 01)

The Banner Says…

Hoping for the return of one of Glasgow’s most dear green places

Regular readers of the Scottish Banner may have noted we often acknowledge an anniversary of a historic occasion, place or building within our pages. Earlier this year when I learned it was the 125th anniversary of the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens in Glasgow I assumed we would likely cover it.

However, we haven’t as sadly the building has been closed since 2018, though the Palace has reopened the Winter Garden have not due to the cost of much needed repairs. I have visited the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens many times over the years and on a cold ‘driech’ day the glass roofed Gardens were an oasis in the midst of the city.

A palace of pleasure and imagination

The iconic building sits in the historic Glasgow Green, Scotland’s oldest park, in the east end o the city. The Palace was built in the style of the Italian Renaissance, in red sandstone and the Gardens in a steel framed Victorian glasshouse structure and called ‘a palace of pleasure and imagination’ at its opening in 1898. The idea for the People’s Palace began in the late 1800’s when Glasgow leaders felt it was important for a cultural asset to be made available for the citizens in the poorer east end. In the late 1800’s life was hard in Glasgow’s east end, and it was quite an overcrowded place with large families living in small spaces.

To have a multi storey museum with art, exhibitions and a diverse variety of flora nestled in the hard-edged east end of Glasgow was a huge thing. At the opening in 1898 Lord Rosebery proudly declared it was ‘open to the people for ever and ever’. Since the 1940’s the building has been a champion of Glasgow’s social history.

The museum is considered to be Glasgow’s only museum in the city for and about the heritage of Glaswegians. It tells a very important part of the story of Glasgow, a story of its working-class history and what Glasgow was built on. It is a building that represents ordinary people and champions social justice. The exhibitions in the Palace include unique insights how Glasgow was for our parents and grandparents such as how a family could live in a one-room Glasgow tenement family home of the 1930s, also photos and film from a Glasgow long gone, political history and just what it was like for the women who laboured (and socialised) at their local ‘steamie’ to do the laundry. Much of that (harder) life is long gone, but no doubt it has helped shape the Glasgow of today.

Dear Green Place

In recent years Glasgow has done an outstanding job in refurbing or opening new museums across the city, such as The Burrell Collection, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Riverside Museum which we have featured each in this publication. The Winter Gardens sadly has fallen into disarray and though it is four times larger than the Palace itself there is no timeline to reopen it.

It has been said that the glasshouse was designed in the inverted shape of Lord Nelson’s ship HMS Victory, however victory has not yet come for the Winter Gardens to reopen. The airy structure was bathed in natural light and featured palm trees and exotic plants and really was a great place to escape to. I hope the city leaders of the ‘Dear Green Place’ find a way to bring back this treasured civic asset and allow Glaswegians, especially those in the east end, and visitors alike to enjoy this green historic oasis. I will be sure we announce the Winter Gardens reopening when that transpires.

In this issue

One place that is having an anniversary as we go to press and is celebrating is the Fife town of Glenrothes. The town officially came to be in 1948 and sits in the heart of Fife. Planners were thinking coal when the town started but the town has reinvented itself with the electronics industry and has a diverse collection of art works across the region, including a fondness for hippos.

Scotland is littered with a variety of ancient sites. At times they can be right in front of us, and we do not always even know it. One person who does is David C. Weinczok, who highlights some of his favourite sites located around Scotland. Perhaps you have discovered a special site of interest, if so please share it with us.

The Cairngorm Railway is the UK’s highest railway (reaching over 1,065m above sea level) and was closed in 2018 due to safety concerns. Earlier this year Scotland’s only funicular railway once again welcomed passengers back on board for the roughly five-minute journey to the top of the Highlands. This will be sure to be popular with not only snowsports enthusiasts in winter, but to visitors throughout the year to take in this stunning location.

Happy Birthday tae us!

Another anniversary I cannot not mention is the Scottish Banner’s birthday! With this issue the Scottish Banner proudly turns 47. I appreciate all the support of our readers, followers, friends and advertisers in helping us get here. Without it reaching this anniversary would not have been possible, so thank you and I do hope you enjoy this edition.

Have you visited the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens in Glasgow? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

June – 2023 (Vol. 46, Number 12)

The Banner Says…

The Common Ridings- Steeped in Scottish Tradition

This month sees the return of a very unique and historic Scottish Borders tradition, the Common Ridings, which also happens to be one of the world’s oldest equestrian festivals. The Return to the Ridings is a celebration of the riding of the boundaries that has taken place for centuries with eleven towns in the Scottish Borders using horses for the traditional ride out.

Border badlands

Common Ridings can be traced back over 900 years when the ‘border badlands’ were in constant disruption during the long wars with England and because of the tribal custom of looting and cattle thieving, known as reiving (the ancient Scots word for theft) that was commonplace amongst the major Borders families.

Reivers could well steal not only from the nearby English but from their own Scottish neighbours. Perhaps your ancestors were reivers who terrorised the border between England and Scotland? Armstrong, Elliot, Graham, Irvine, Johnstone, Kerr, Maxwell, Nixon and Scott were among the lawless families who rode, feuded, fought and pillaged over the wild tribal borders area for 350 years. During these lawless and turbulent times, townspeople would ride their boundaries, or ‘marches’, to protect their common lands and prevent encroachment by neighbouring landlords. As more peaceful and settled times came, the ridings ceremony remained in the border region in honour of local legend, history and tradition.

Historic equestrian pageants

The Hawick Common Riding is the first of the Border festivals and celebrates both the capture of an English flag in 1514 in Hornshole by some young Hawick locals and the ancient custom of riding the marches or boundaries of the common land. Each of the eleven towns puts their own local tradition and spin on these historic equestrian pageants today, which take place from June to August each year. The Selkirk Common Riding, which takes place mid-June, is recognised as one of the oldest of the Border festivals which goes back in history to 1113, when David I wanted to establish an abbey at Selkirk, the first abbey ever for the Scottish Borders.

Today the colourful spectacle, considered one of the top annual events in the Scottish Borders, is witnessed by people from across the world who take in the stunning display of horsemanship, pageantry and tradition by hundreds of riders at a time. The riders are saddled up along the routes often used by their ancestors in celebration of their history, and the lawless disputed lands, we all now know as the gentle and peaceful Scottish border region.

In this issue

Earlier this year I was on a walk around Glasgow and stumbled upon the TS Queen Mary moored by the Glasgow Science Centre. While it was all boarded up when I was there, I was very happy to see her proudly resting on the Clyde. The iconic Clydebuilt ship is celebrating 90 years this year, the anniversary was in fact just before this issue was released. The Queen Mary was known as ‘Britain’s finest pleasure steamer’ and hosted many famous people. Thankfully the vessel is being restored so future generations know what it is like to go ‘doon the watter’.

If you have travelled much in Scotland, you will certainly have seen farms amongst the stunning scenery. If like me, you may have not known that Scotland once produced its very own tractor to plough those soggy Scottish fields. The Glasgow tractor billed itself as the ‘most scientifically accurate tractor on earth’, it was short lived unfortunately at just five years as it could not compete on price with US imports.

The recent coronation of King Charles saw the Stone of Destiny moved from Edinburgh Castle to London’s Westminster Abbey. It was quite an operation transporting the 125kg/275lb. stone, which is now back on display in Edinburgh. The historic stone will now remain there until it is moved to Perth, as part of the new City Hall Museum, opening in 2024. Our very own, and long-time contributor, Lady Fiona MacGregor was fortunate to be at the coronation and this month gives us some insights from this historic event.

Safe Oot, Safe In

The Scottish Borders are a real gem of Scotland and I always know when I reach Scotland, if travelling from England by train. Not by a sign or monument but the green and lush rolling hills and landscape that starts to draw you in as the beauty of Scotland begins to present itself.

The region is certainly diverse with some fantastic historic sites, stunning rural scenery and a rich history in textiles and agriculture. Clearly the ‘Border Badlands’ have been relegated to the history books and we thankfully have the picturesque and easily accessible region of Scotland ready for us to explore and discover. Should you be attending the Common Ridings this summer, or just Scotland itself, I wish you a ‘Safe Oot – Safe In’ (a well-known Borders saying, wishing mounted riders a safe journey).

Have you visited the Scottish Borders region? Do you have any favourite Scottish traditional events you like to attend? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

May – 2023 (Vol. 46, Number 11)

The Banner Says…

Equality in the pipe band movement

Pipe bands are an icon of Scotland and enjoyed by millions of people across the world, a true global sound enjoyed by not just those of Scottish descent. Think pipe bands and many will think of men proudly playing, but women can quite often be overlooked in this talented group of worldwide musicians. Historically the pipe band movement was not considered a place for women, perhaps this was reinforced as many Scottish pipe bands had links to the military and bagpipes were considered as an instrument of war.

However, women’s connections to bagpipes goes back deep into history. In the late 1800’s a set of bagpipes was found in a female’s coffin in Egypt, believed to be about 3,000 years old. The pipe band world was not an accommodating place for women, nor did it try to be for many years. The world’s first all-female pipe band is thought to have in fact started in the East End of London, England when the Dagenham Girl Pipers Pipe Band was created by the Reverend Joseph Waddington in 1930. With Scotland getting its first female pipe band in 1934. Women were not mixed into regular pipe bands more commonly until the 1970s. Prior to that they were outright barred from taking part in a pipe band.

Females in the pipe band movement are here to thankfully stay

Today it is estimated women make up around 20-30% of pipe band numbers and recognised as quite literally ‘playing’ an important role in the pipe band movement. But is that enough? Clearly gender has no role in how well someone can play an instrument. However, some today even argue that women are better off suited to the drum corps, rather than playing the pipes as they have a smaller lung capacity than male players. As we go to press with this issue a new study into the underrepresentation of women in Scotland’s piping and drumming scene has been launched by The National Piping Centre in Glasgow, in collaboration with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Entitled Women in Piping and Drumming: Equality, Inclusivity, and Diversity, the six-month study is launching an online survey, designed to gain a better understanding of women’s perspectives and experiences within piping and drumming in Scotland.

It was only a few years ago, in 2016, that Lance Bombardier Megan Beveridge made history by becoming the first serving female soldier to perform as the Lone Piper at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The coveted role, which is often a highlight for many visitors to the Tattoo, had only had one other female Lone Piper in 1977 in its over 70-year history. We cover a variety of piping events in the Scottish Banner and you may have noticed most of the solo competitions are led and won by male, and white, performers and judges. Of the most prestigious solo piping championships in Scotland, you can count female winners with one hand, and at times just one finger. The oldest piping society in the world, the Royal Scottish Pipers Society, only allowed women to join in 2015 and they were founded in 1881!

While females in the pipe band movement are here to thankfully stay, we are still far from having an equal representation of players. I know and have met many great female pipers around the world, and I hope that gender disparity in the traditional Scottish music scene continues to be put well into the history books. As we need both men and women to keep the pipe band movement flourishing around the world.

In this issue

When thinking of Scotland’s myriad of open places and stunning nature you may first think of the Highlands or the rolling countryside of the Scottish Borders. However, at the turn of the 20th century, the Scottish adventurer Ella Christie came back to Scotland from a trip to Asia and was inspired to build a Japanese garden. The historic garden at Cowden Castle was once considered “the best Japanese garden in the western world”, but sadly fell into disarray. The garden however has been nurtured back to health and again open should you be looking for something unique and peaceful to do when next in Scotland.

There is nothing more awe inspiring than a Scottish castle. They reek of history, sorrow and still today dominate the surroundings where they are located. This month our very own Castle Hunter, David C. Weinczok, reflects on some of his favourite castles he has visited in Scotland. Since he has been to nearly 450 of these historic sites across the nation, he is well poised to recommend some perhaps you have yet to visit.

Scottish fashion was the star of the show recently in Washington, DC as the 20th annual Dressed to Kilt fashion event again took place. It was the first time the event moved to the nation’s capital and tartan, tweed and style were all put on show for a great cause.

The Stone of Destiny

One of Scotland’s most historic relics will be on display for the world to see this month. The Stone of Scone or Stone of Destiny (also referred to as The Coronation Stone) is an ancient symbol of Scotland’s monarchy and was used for centuries in the inauguration of its kings and today is housed at Edinburgh Castle.

The stone will play a key role in King Charles III’s coronation, which will take place on Saturday 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey in London. Charles will be formally crowned King of the United Kingdom and 14 other Commonwealth nations, including Australia, Canada and New Zealand. The stone will be returned to Edinburgh after the coronation events to the castle’s Crown Room.

Are you a female member of a pipe band, if so, what are your experiences? Do you think more women should be in pipe bands? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

April – 2023 (Vol. 46, Number 10)

The Banner Says…

The Cloth of a Nation

When it comes to symbols of Scotland you cannot go past the iconic ‘cloth of a nation’, tartan. Tartan is one of the most recognisable symbols of Scotland and is definitely something which connects people to the nation’s geography, history and heritage. Like the fabric itself, tartan is woven into Scottish identity. It is something that is loved by Scots and all those that wish they were. From heritage regalia, to homewares and high end fashion it is a cloth that never has and never will go out of fashion.

According to the Scottish Register of Tartans a tartan is described as follows: ‘A tartan is a design which is capable of being woven consisting of two or more alternating coloured stripes which combine vertically and horizontally to form a repeated chequered pattern.’

Highland Dress

But just how did tartan come to be and why? Researchers and historians believe tartan, or something similar to what we know of it today, has been woven by Scots for thousands of years. The earliest recorded piece of a tartan like fabric to be found in the UK was in Falkirk, dating back to the 3rd century. This ancient piece of cloth, known as the Falkirk Tartan, was found in a pot and held silver coins. It is considered one of the earliest examples of tartan material in existence and is today housed in the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.

Those early renditions of tartan would not have been linked to Clans or families but would have used the basic colours available found locally and it became especially popular in the Scottish Highlands. By the 16th and 17th centuries weaving wools and dyes was much more common and it became part of Highland dress. On April 16th 1746 at Culloden Moor, just outside of Inverness and in less than an hour, Bonnie Prince Charlie lost the Battle of Culloden and King George II and the Hanoverian government used the opportunity to destroy the perceived military threat of the savage Jacobite Highland clans who supported the return of the Stuart dynasty. The government’s intention was to eliminate the culturally separate identity of the Highland people, and their way of life. The Royal Dress Act of 1746, which was introduced several months after the Battle of Culloden, restricted the wearing of Highland dress. The law would not be repealed until July 1st, 1782.

In this issue

Tartan has now for over 200 years been woven into the fabric of Scottish culture and symbolism. The stunning V&A Dundee this month will launch the much-anticipated exhibition Tartan on Dundee’s renewed waterfront. For Scottish Banner readers the great news is if you happen to be travelling to Scotland this year, or into early next year, you can take in this exhibition of one of the world’s most recognisable textiles and patterns, and the first exhibition in Scotland in 30 years to focus solely on tartan.

Scotland is a great country for taking in local statues. There is always one around with a story to tell. However, we may need to remind ourselves not all statues displayed are in fact a tribute to real people. Fictional characters also get to be remembered across the country from poetry, children’s books and cartoons. Making some of these loved works and characters, adored by generations of people, quite literally set in stone.

The first time I ever flew to Scotland I landed at Glasgow Prestwick Airport. As a young child it was all so exciting to be somewhere new and coming into land over the green Ayrshire countryside. Glasgow Prestwick has a huge history with Scottish aviation and whilst the airport today is not the gateway and transatlantic hub it once was, the Scottish aviators that used Prestwick made their mark on the industry at both home and beyond.

Tartan Day

For hundreds of years people have been able to freely wear tartan across Scotland and a tartan industry has flourished (said to be worth over £350 million a year). There are now thousands of registered tartans which cover everything from personal, company, clan, milestones and more. Tartans are available in a plethora of colours and styles from kilts to carpets. I suspect many Scottish Banner readers will own some tartan and likely in their family or Clan colours. Tartan is loved by both Scots and non-Scots, making it an international timeless fashion statement.

This month across North America Tartan Day will be celebrated on April 6th (in Australia and New Zealand International Tartan Day takes place on July 1st, which marks the anniversary of the repeal of the 1746 Act of Proscription that banned the wearing of tartan). The day started in Nova Scotia, Canada by a reader of the Scottish Banner and has grown into a huge continental celebration and is recognised by governments across Canada, the US and Scotland itself. I hope those who are attending the many events taking place have a wonderful time and proudly wear their tartan as it, like Scots themselves, will never go out of style.

Do you wear or have a favourite tartan? What does tartan mean to you? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

March – 2023 (Vol. 46, Number 09)

The Banner Says…

The Great Women of Scotland

International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and takes place on March 8th.

This had me thinking of the many great Scottish women we have featured over the years for a wide variety of accomplishments and for breaking many glass ceilings along the way. Having grown up around a very strong woman and with many strong female role models in my family and life I have always felt that myself, and the wider world, is so very lucky to have the incredible contributions of women.

Mary Sommerville

Most in the Scottish Borders town of Jedburgh in 1780 would not have expected the wee girl named Mary would go on to become a world leading scientist, mathematician and astronomer. Mary Somerville would receive very little formal education, however became a self-taught scientist, at a time when it was not considered possible for a woman to comprehend never mind teach science. In fact, the gender-neutral term ‘scientist’ was coined in 1834 and it was used to specifically describe Mary herself (thus making her the world’s first scientist). Mary would go on to help find the planet Neptune and champion the rights of women in education, politics and society. In 1835 she was one of the first women to be elected to the Royal Astronomical Society and even has a crater on the moon named after her, as well as a variety of places here on earth.

The Edinburgh Seven

What some women did during their time has gone on to pave the way for generations of women to accomplish with much more ease and assurance. For example, seven pioneering women changed the world at the University of Edinburgh in 1869- Sophia Jex–Blake, Isabel Thorne, Edith Pechey, Matilda Chaplin, Helen Evans, Mary Anderson and Emily Bovell were the first women to study medicine at any UK university. They endured many roadblocks including riots against them and a medical board who said that ‘the poor intellectual ability and stamina of women would lower professional standards.’ Sadly, the women were not awarded degrees from Edinburgh, but five would go on to get medical degrees in Europe and the group fought to allow future women to qualify as doctors in the United Kingdom. It was not until 1894 that the University of Edinburgh allowed women to graduate and the first doctors graduated in 1896.

In 2019, the University of Edinburgh posthumously awarded all seven women the degrees they should have received all those years ago.

In this issue

Another pioneering woman which we feature in this issue is Dorothée Pullinger. Though born in France, Dorothée would grow up in Ayrshire, and became a prominent businesswoman and automaker. Her company Galloway Motors would begin production in the 1920s. The company produced a car, the Galloway, for Arrol-Johnston that was designed for women. Dorothée would become the first female Member of the Institution of Automobile Engineers and quite literally paved the road for women to enter the industry.

If you find yourself in the gentle countryside of the Scottish Borders perhaps you have noticed the beautiful Eildon Hills, located just outside Melrose. The Eildon Hills are an iconic part of the Scottish Borders landscape and if you have been lucky enough to make it to the top on a clear day, they offer commanding views of the surrounding districts. The Eildon Hills are also a reminder of the volcanic past of this stunning area and remain a focal point for visitors to enjoy to this day.

Shinty is considered to be Scotland’s most historic sport and is a team game played with sticks and a ball. The games spiritual home is certainly in the Highlands of Scotland and today is still a very important part of local Highland communities. The game is thought to pre-date Christianity and in Scotland was introduced by migrant Gaels from Ireland (bringing with them the game of hurling). Shinty was brought to North America by Scottish settlers and some have also suggested that it was shinty that would lead to the development of ice hockey in the continent. Regardless, this ancient Celtic game has a rich history in Scotland and is a key community sport for many.

Scottish witches

As we go to press with this edition it has been announced that Scotland’s longest serving First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will be stepping down. Regardless of what side of politics you sit on it is interesting a woman has served in the role the longest and it certainly seems she gained more international media coverage than her male predecessors ever did. Perhaps her spotlight on the world stage was due to some major events happening during her tenure such as Brexit, Covid, Scotland’s response to the Ukraine war and planning for a new referendum.

The First Minister also strongly supported the petition, which was launched on International Woman’s Day in 2020, demanding an official pardon for those (mainly women) accused of being witches under the then Witchcraft Act of 1563. This was at a time a woman could be called a witch for being different, single, poor, disabled or simply for being a woman.

These women were also not allowed to speak in a court and were convicted on hearsay, dislike or rumour and then publicly executed. Last year First Minister Nicola Sturgeon formally apologised for the persecution of those accused of witchcraft, saying it was an “injustice on a colossal scale.” This finally was a wrong formally acknowledged that was done to women across Scotland, in a time we thankfully will not see again.

Have you been shaped by a strong Scottish woman? Do you have a favourite woman from Scottish history? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

February – 2023 (Vol. 46, Number 08)

The Banner Says…

Saying ‘I Do’ to Scotland

If you are like me when I think of Scotland, I think of the incredible amount of natural beauty the country has to offer. It would be very fair to say it is quite a romantic place to visit with incredible vistas, coastlines, history and architecture.

Most cannot help but fall in love with the country, even those there on their own. This month the world will be selling just a few more roses when Valentine’s Day takes place mid-month. Scotland however has been helping lovers from around the world in its very own way for hundreds of years.

Location played a huge role in allowing the Scottish Borders town of Gretna Green to become Britain’s wedding capital, with its romantic history beginning nearly 300 years ago. In 1754, English Parliament passed a law banning people under the age of twenty-one to get married without permission of their parents.

However for those who ventured over the Scottish border, the law did not apply. In Scotland, a much more lenient age of sixteen was law and English couples found themselves flocking to the sleepy border town. To this day, and certainly around Valentine’s Day, many couples from across the globe travel to Gretna Green for wedding and vow renewal ceremonies.

Scottish wedding customs

Thousands of people have also enjoyed taking on some of the unique Scottish wedding customs that have developed over the years. Luckenbooth brooches originated in 16th century Edinburgh and were given by the groom to his bride as a token of both love and luck. The brooch features two hearts entwined together, with a crown on top. The brooches also were said to help ward off witches, and originally were sold in the luckenbooths, a row of tenements near St Giles Cathedral on the Royal Mile. Today you will still find these being sold across the world.

A favourite of children would have to be the wedding scramble. The father of the bride throws a handful of coins for children to collect just as the bride is climbing into the wedding car to make her way to the church. Children would then scramble to get as many coins as possible and create an atmosphere as the bride sets off, it was also thought doing this would bring financial stability to the newlyweds.

Traditionally a Scottish bride is always found to the left of the groom. This started back when the groom may need his right hand free to use his sword to fight off anyone who may have objected of their union, including in-laws!

Another tradition you will still find at weddings today is the quaich ceremony. A quaich (cuach in Gaelic means cup), or also referred to as a loving cup, is a Scottish traditional two handled cup and has been around in some form for centuries. Each person to marry takes a drink from the often silver or pewter quaich, with their favourite whisky or brandy. The sharing of the drink signifies both the union of two people and families.

In this issue

Think of a distillery in Scotland and of course most would instantly think of the “water of life’, or whisky. However, gin is one of the fastest growing spirits for Scotland and in fact Scotland now produces 70 percent of gin for the UK market. We get a chance to speak this month to one of five women who are behind the Isle of Cumbrae Distillers. Having grown up around many strong women in my life I have no doubt distillers like at Cumbrae will help lead the way to more women, of more ages, entering the drinks industry and I will very happily drink to that!

Eagle eyed travellers who have been on the Edinburgh to Glasgow train service will no doubt have spotted a unique spire as they pass through Linlithgow. The ‘crown of thorns’ spire which sits at the top of St Michael’s Church had local controversy when it was added to the 15th century church in the 1960s. Sadly overtime the modern addition, which has become a symbol for Linlithgow, has fallen victim to the Scottish weather and now needs repair. Perhaps you have caught the spire when in Linlithgow, or just passing on the train, and can help preserve this iconic piece for future generations.

One story that caught my eye this month was Scotland being named ‘Best Golf Destination in the World.’ I do admit I am not a golfer, much to my father’s disappointment, but I was slightly surprised that a country known the world over as the ‘Home of Golf’ has only won this for the first time. With nearly 600 courses across the country and a history of golf in Scotland going back to the 15th century, the industry is said to be worth nearly £300 million to the Scottish economy. Previous winners were Australia, Vietnam and Portugal, so glad to see Scotland being rightly recognised.

The romance of Scotland

Whether or not you are looking for a romantic break with that special someone, maybe getting married or looking to renew your vows, Scotland is certainly a place to consider as
celebrating your heritage and the quirky customs which come with it can be a special thing to do.

For me however it is simply the romance of Scotland itself that lures me each and every time, the majestic Highlands, Edinburgh’s winding streets, the dramatic coastlines and the incredible friendliness of the people.

Scotland can be my Valentine anytime!

Have you been married in Scotland? Do you practice any Scottish wedding traditions? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.

January – 2023 (Vol. 46, Number 07)

The Banner Says…

Lighting up a New Year

As we all look at a New Year upon us with this issue for many (and certainly for those in Scotland) this will be some of the darkest, and coldest, days of the year this month. Of course, our Australian and New Zealand readers will be trying to keep cool as they look to take in the height of summer.

The powerful symbol of fire

Scottish tradition has long incorporated the powerful symbol of fire during the dark winter nights and January is no exception to this. Hogmanay celebrations are still a huge part of Scottish culture and let’s face it the Scots know how to throw a party!

Hogmanay or New Year’s Eve, also known as Oidhche Challainn in Gaelic, is the biggest annual celebration in Scotland. The use of fire on this night is famous the world over today but has been part of Scottish tradition for centuries. People would light fires and candles for luck for the coming year ahead, if you lost your fire it was thought to be bad luck for the household in the coming year.

In many parts of Gaelic speaking Scotland children would often go from house to house on New Year’s Day and burn a sheep candle, which was sheep meat dipped in wax. Each house would offer fire for luck and protection and each member of the household would have the flame around their head, should that flame go out it was likely that person would have bad luck or worse death in the year ahead. While fire is still a focus, some may be surprised to know that not all of Scotland has celebrated the New Year on December 31st.

In Moray, the Burning of the Clavie has its origins in Pagan rituals and in fact acknowledges New Year on January 11th. The Burning of the Clavie is a Pictish celebration of the ancient Scots Hogmanay, which fell on January 11 before the Gregorian calendar was introduced in Britain in the 18th century. The event involves lighting a 100kg barrel of tar which is then carried around the town. The Clavie is then taken up Dorie Hill before being allowed to burn out and tumble down the hill. Locals then gather around the smoking remains as it is supposed to bring good luck for the year ahead. Other parts of Scotland that have had a different New Year include on January 12th on Berneray in the Outer Hebrides and Foula in the Shetland Isles who celebrate on January 13th.

Up Helly Aa

The largest fire festival in Europe happens to also take place this month in Lerwick on Shetland. Up Helly Aa is a fire festival in Shetland where 1,000 torch bearers, led by the Jarl Squad Viking, march through Lerwick and set fire to a Viking replica longship. This year amazingly will be the first that will allow females to take part as torchbearers since this iconic Norse event began in the early 1800s. The celebration of Shetland and Viking culture uses fire as a main focus of the events energy with a torchlight procession marching through the streets, culminating with fires burning throughout the night. The fires of tradition burn throughout winter in Scotland with Up Helly Aas traditionally taking place in various locations from January through to March.

In this issue

As we welcome in the New Year with this issue, we highlight some of the great things you can experience in Scotland in the year ahead. I am looking forward to my first visit to Scotland this month, after a few years absence. We also hear from our friends at the National Piping Centre in Glasgow on just some of the array of events taking place across the piping and drumming world in Scotland and the globe. Whether you play in a band or are just a fan of the sound of Scotland, there will be plenty of opportunities to hear the pipes and drums throughout 2023.

Stonehaven is a small and picturesque town, located just south of Aberdeen, on the Aberdeenshire coast. With a picture postcard harbour and the stunning and dramatic Dunnottar Castle located minutes from the town centre, it is a great spot to enjoy for a
day or longer. Stonehaven is one place I have only managed to visit once and it was for lunch, and it is on my list of not only places to return to, but for a longer period to take in its charm and beauty.

All of Scotland stopped for a moment late November as Scottish rugby legend Doddie Weir, who won sixty-one caps for Scotland, passed away at the age of 52. Weir was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in December 2016 and used his profile to raise money and highlight the need for better research and care. Though his rugby skills will forever be remembered it will be the determination and humanity he showed Scotland and the world throughout his illness which will define him forever, a statement from his family certainly summed up what the nation thought of Weir when they called him an “inspirational force of nature”.

Robert Burns

On the 25 January people across Scotland and the world will pay tribute to the life and cultural legacy of poet Robert Burns. Born in Ayrshire on January 25, 1759, Robert Burns is Scotland’s national bard and still today is one of Scotland’s most famous Scots. Burns would never have imagined his legacy would be so far reaching and long lasting, nor could he ever have contemplated a fame like he has achieved during his short lifetime, Burns died a poor man at just the age of 37. Perhaps you will attend a Burns Supper this year or simply raise a dram to one of Scotland’s greatest sons.

I hope you not only find a way to enjoy Burns Night, but I wish you and yours a safe, happy and healthy 2023 ahead.

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December – 2022 (Vol. 46, Number 06)

The Banner Says…

The cancellation of Christmas

When most people receive this month’s edition of the Scottish Banner, they will no doubt be looking at a busy month ahead with festive events, get-togethers with friends and family and perhaps just spending a little bit too much money on gifts, food and festive cheer.

I remember as a child the excitement of going to bed on Christmas Eve and wondering what might be in some of those wrapped packages bearing my name on them. We were lucky to have as part of our family tradition the offer of opening a small gift on Christmas Eve before going to bed and getting some milk, cookies and of course carrots out for Santa and his loyal crew of reindeer.

Banning Christmas

I am glad those traditions were part of my growing up and cannot imagine not having them as part of my childhood memories. However, for many years Scottish children did not have such traditions as part of their growing up experiences. Some may be surprised to learn that Christmas was actually banned in Scotland for centuries. Christmas had its early origins in Scotland when those fierce Vikings raided the land and made communities in Scotland from the 8th century, with them they brought the custom of celebrating the winter solstice in a pagan festival which became known as yule.

Yule was a multiday celebration which honoured their ancestors in the darkest time of the year, this eventually became a Christian tradition. During the Reformation years Scottish Protestant kirks broke ties with the Catholic Church and thus began to cut ties with all things Christmas.

Christmas was abolished in 1640 by the Scottish parliament as it was seen as a Roman Catholic tradition and celebrating Christmas became illegal. The law was strictly enforced, and it was even illegal to bake a yule log or sing a Christmas carol. And though you would no longer be thrown into prison for celebrating Christmas, it did become just another working day for many Scots well into the 20th century. Whilst some of the banned period may feel like part of medieval history it was not in fact until 1958 that Christmas even became a public holiday in Scotland, that is less than 70 years ago.

Even more recently, Boxing Day did not become recognised as a holiday in Scotland until 1974. In some parts of the country, December 26th was Sweetie Scone Day, when the Lord or Lady of the estate would give cakes made with dried fruit and spices to their workers and the poor (who couldn’t afford these luxurious ingredients).

In this issue

The iconic Kinloch Castle is located on the Isle of Rum. Built in the late 1800s, the A listed Victorian mansion has quite a history and was once a playground for the rich, privileged and famous of England and Scotland. Sadly, the state of the Kinloch Castle has fallen in such bad shape it needs someone with very deep pockets to get it back on track. The small but passionate local Rum community also have their ideas on how Kinloch should be restored and managed. A buyer is needed who will be both sympathetic to the castle and the community.

Strathblane is in Stirlingshire but just outside of Glasgow making it an ideal commuter town. However, the rolling hills and green spaces that surround the area certainly let you know you are not in Glasgow. Visitors can enjoy walking and cycle trails, and picturesque drives. Not to mention the stunning hill ranges of the Campsies and a great whisky distillery. It is great we can highlight this lovely spot, and one that is quite easy to get to when you are next in Scotland.

Hogmanay

Scots of course were not completely deprived of fun and cheer during the festive period. They would whole heartedly embrace New Year’s Eve, or as we all know it Hogmanay, as back in the day Scots could not celebrate Christmas itself. Some amazing Scottish customs also have been developed over the years which still take place today. Many Hogmanay celebrations still light up the dark cold night with fire, from torchlight processions to fire ball ceremonies Scotland holds on to these unique celebrations which signify the Winter Solstice, ancestors and the rejuvenating energy of the sun.

Speaking of fire some Scots still practice the tradition of burning a twig from a rowan tree during the festive season. It is believed that burning rowan gets rid of jealousy or mistrust between family, friends and neighbours. Hundreds of years ago it was popular to burn a Yule log and the ashes were considered lucky and would protect the house for the year ahead. From this tradition some Scots today burn a candle in the window as a welcome to family, friends and even strangers.

Of course, Christmas is a joyous time for most of us today, however some will be doing it tough this holiday season. Some will be alone, some sick, some working, or just missing someone special who is not around the table this holiday season and I always think of them at this time of the year.

I hope you and yours have a safe, wonderful and happy holiday season. We also thank all our readers, customers, subscribers and advertisers for all their support in 2022.

Merry Christmas, or as some may know in Scots Gaelic, Nollaig Chridheil!

Do you practice any Scottish Christmas or Hogmanay traditions? Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

#ScottishBanner, #TheBanner

The Scottish Banner is more reliant than ever on our readers helping us to provide you with our unique content by buying a copy of our publication, regardless if by print or digital subscription or at a retail outlet.
We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy this edition.