Our View of the Month, in the centre pages, shows the beautiful Findochty harbour and village in Morayshire. Photograph by Dennis Hardley, see his ad on page 54

SCOTTISH

M m i is published by Warners Group Publications plc, 5th Floor, 31-32 Park Row, Leeds, LS1 5JD, UK website: www.scottish-memories.co.uk

PUBLISHER Janet Davison jand@warnersgroup.co.uk

EDITORIAL Editor: Matt Hill matthewh@warnersgroup.co.uk Tel: 0113 200 2912

Deputy Editor: Rachel Bellerby rachelb@warnersgroup.co.uk Tel: 0113 200 2922

Consultant Editor: George Forbes Contributors: Jean Brittain, Myra Douglas, Bobby Harvey, James Hendrie, Steve Lillie, G Barclay Robertson, Cameron Slater, Aileen Torrance, Gemma Mackenzie, David McVey, John Scott, Stuart Hamilton, Gemma McKenzie. Landscape photography: Dennis Hardley (details on page 54)

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BACK ISSUES Back issues are available from the Scottish Memories subscriptions department, tel: 01778 392030. ISSN 0968-7874 DISCLAIMER The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every care is taken to ensure that the contents of the magazine are accurate, but the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any resulting unsatisfactory transactions, but will immediately investigate any written complaints.

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SCOTTISH

W lc m t This month’s feature on exciting days out, coupled with our cover image of a sun-drenched Brodie Castle, reminds us that spring is in the air. At long last!

M m i the seasons is more of an event than the actual season itself, with the beautiful colours all

I admit to being a summer person (aren’t we all?) and can’t wait for the dark mornings and evenings to fade away. I often think that the changing of the seasons is more of an event than the actual season itself, with the beautiful colours all around us. But of course the longer days and nicer weather means we can get out and about much more when summer finally does come, whether it is in our own garden (don’t miss our great green-fingered recollections on page 44) or further afield at some of the country’s many attractions. Our guide on page 16 provides plenty of inspiration, with the reopening attractions giving us the chance to appreciate history, recall memories and make a few new ones. If you’re heading out why not take advantage of our great subscription offer on page 23 and claim a free tartan rug and drinks flask to take along on your next day trip or holiday?

Of course, down in London a certain Royal couple will be enjoying their own special spring day when they tie the knot amidst thousands of well-wishers, and we have some lovely stories of similar occasions from the past in this month’s reader memories. Whether you’re having a street party for the event, planning to watch it on television, or will be doing something else to avoid all the fuss, here’s hoping it’s one of many memorable days to enjoy in the warmer months ahead!

Matt Hill, Editor

C t ts 5 Then and Now Costumed performers arrive at Stirling Palace, and lifetime achievement award for climber. Plus, reader of the month, reasons to be cheerful and much more

PS: Don’t miss the forthcoming Scottish Memories e-Newsletter, for more news, views and memories. Sign up by e-mailing me at: matthewh@warnersgroup.co.uk

34 The flying phantom Spooky tales attached to the story of a wronged airman at Montrose Airfield

13 Tullibardine Chapel A little-known medieval chapel which has survived almost untouched for 500 years

14 Memories Mailbox Readers’ letters. Plus, George Forbes’ popular Writing to Remember column 16 Out and about 2011 Celebrate Spring with our guide to a new season at Scotland’s top tourist attractions

36 Don’t shoot the pianist! The memories of a talented pianist who once entertained the Glasgow public

38 Days of the dividend In our fun fiction series set in a 1950s Co-op, disaster strikes in the DIY department

39 Reader memories Readers share their memories of Royal celebrations, lamplighters, and life in a railway community

20 Fifty years of farming An Isle of Lewis farmer reflects on changes during five decades of farming

44 Blooming hard work Aileen Torrance recalls her green-fingered gardening job

22 Scotland in miniature A look at the tiny wafers used to seal letters in the Victorian age, when using an envelope was seen as an extravagance

24 Year to remember: 1971 A nostalgic look at the films, music and news headlines of 1971

27 Destination Moray Firth We explore fascinating places to visit on the beautiful Moray Firth

46 Gentle giants The fascinating story of the Clydesdale horse, used on farms and on the battlefield

48 Sights and sounds of Scotland We give you the lowdown on the latest books and CDs with a Scottish flavour

51 Scottish Memories Book Club Don’t miss this month’s range of wonderful books, at fantastic prices!

52 Puzzles WIN! Put the kettle on, sit back and relax with our page of puzzles and competitions

S sc today n v FREE t r t u n s ! S ag 23 r d s…