Celebrating 100 glorious years

Over the years Burngreen has acted as a place for Kilsythians to meet and be entertained.

The land, originally donated by Sir Archibald Edmonstone in 1910, was converted into a scenic park, complete with bandstand and fountain.

Bandstands and outdoor performances were very much the fashion in early 20th century Britain, and the fact that Kilsyth was a railway-town meant that there was no shortage of audiences passing through, and so it became part of Kilsyth's heritage.

As at the original opening, the Kilsyth Thistle Pipe Band will play on the newly refurbished bandstand. Later, there will be musical performances from Croy Silver Band, the Columban Singers and the Girl Guides, who are also celebrating their centenary.

Over the past 35 years, the park has undergone considerable changes.

In 1975 cherry trees were planted, and then five years later a row of conifirs were planted along the walkway beside the burn.

Recent refurbishment work has included restoring the ironwork to its original design and colour. The war memorial, which has also been refurbished. New flower beds were planted, and new bins, lights, and seats have all been installed.

The opening events start at 6.30pm at the Burngreen, where there will be an admission-free, Edwardian-themed evening of musical acts, along with "costume photos" taken with an original 1910 camera, Punch & Judy, games, and of coarse refreshments.

Subsequently, the Kilsyth Library will be hosting an exhibition on the Burngreen, featuring original photographs and postcards.

There will be a short, informal re-opening ceremony of the bandstand at 7pm, conducted by the current Sir Archibald Edmonstone accompanied by his wife, Lady Edmonstone.