Football crazy
When Stuart Cameron, of Deoch ’n’ Dorus fame, kindly invited me along to seven-a-side on the pitches at Jordanhill school last Monday, I warned him that I haven’t played football in years.
“Not a problem,” he said, “you’ll know most of the boys”.
True enough, I recognised a number of names on the list.
One was my old pal Fraser Macinnes – a fine drummer from Tobermory who plays with accordionists such as Tom Orr, Alasdair MacCuish, and Ian Smith.
I should have the beating of Fraser, I thought. I was at his 40th birthday last weekend so I’m nine years younger!
Another was Don MacDonald from Eriskay Lilt. I’m not sure what the age gap between myself and Don is but suffice to say it is more than nine years!
With all this in mind, I turned up at the pitches quite relaxed until I saw the towering and instantly recognisable figure of Al Kellock – former Scottish rugby captain – throwing off his jacket, ready for action.
I had expected to come up against some elite musicians but not an elite, world-class sportsman.
Big Al ran from box to box all night like a machine. Luckily, he is a gentleman and, even more luckily, he was on my team!
The Man of the Match was undoubtedly Don MacDonald who gave Fraser MacInnes an absolute torrid time down the left wing all night and will hopefully remove him from his back pocket in time for next Monday.
Mairi MacArthur
Govan Gaelic Choir were saddened to learn that former member, Mairi Macarthur, had passed away on February 22 at her daughter’s home in Tiree.
Mairi joined the choir in 1962 and served faithfully as chorister and soloist for 60 years.
Gaelic singing was in her blood and, after winning the Gold Medal at the 1965 National Mòd, she delighted audiences in large concert halls, at small ceilidhs, National TV and Radio. She also entertained internationally in Canada, USA, and Russia.
For many summer seasons, Mairi was a great favourite on Clyde Coast resorts – appearing with The Bobby Harvey Showband.
Her bright, witty and fun- loving personality made her a very popular entertainer.
She spoke and promoted Gaelic at every opportunity.
Her Gaelic learner classes were popular and well attended, and many youngsters benefited from her knowledge and assistance in preparing for Mòd competitions. She gave so readily of her time and encouragement to anyone seeking help with the language she loved.
Mairi played a large part in the history of Govan Gaelic Choir. Her lovely soprano voice and long service will be remembered with love and gratitude.
Through this article, the choir wish to extend their warmest sympathy to Myra, Sandy and family.
Fois agus sìth dhut, a Mhàiri.
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