FROM THE ARCHIVES

A look through the back files of the Cumbernauld News

1996

THE DREAM had died for fans of Marks & Spencers - after the chain announced it would NOT be coming to Cumbernauld’s revamped town centre. It marked a body blow for the fledgling development and MP Norman Hogg said he would seek specialist Government aid to ensure that other big names could be attracted to the town. The Labour man said: “We feel we should be given the same kind of deals made to inward investors setting up a factory. I know it’s a new idea but the results are just the same.’’ It transpired that store bosses were concerned by reports that the bulk of locals did their shopping outwith Cumbernauld.

LABOUR’S treatment of Cumbernauld Theatre was slammed by prospective Scottish Nationalist Parliamentary candidate Colin Barrie - who claimed that budget cuts had left the venue ‘‘scrambling for cash.’’ He said: “The disgraceful cuts meted out to the theatre and the poor effect this is having on staff morale once again proves you cannot trust Labour with your facilities.’’ The nationalist then called upon Labour council group leader Harry McGuigan to reinforce his earlier promise - that the theatre would not shut.

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WorLD FEDERATION of Burns Clubs President Andrew McKee visitied local Burnsians.

1986

YOUR campaign was the most disgraceful run in the town’s history - this was the claim from Labour election agent Ann McGuire just minutes after the Carbrain East by-election was won by Scottish Nationalist Andrew Gardner. This followed the claim in SNP publicity material that Labour councillors were living high on the hog with hefty expenses claims. Nats activists said that Mrs McGuire was just jealous as Labour hopeful Bridie Dowds had been defeated in the contest.

FINNISH saunas were hot property at the Tryst Centre -after leisure bosses said they would spend £2000 to revamp the existing facility. A new cabin plus Russian steamroom would replace the existing amenities which were nearing the end of their natural lifespan.

CUMBERNAULD played host to a giant bridge tournament. Local teams like New Town and St Joseph’s showed their hands against teams from all across Scotland at the Edwin Berry Bowl Scottish Swiss competition. Local husband-and-wife team the McVeys picked up the prize for the highest placed local squad. Meanwhile local snooker fans were treated to a visit from larger-than-life Canadian Ace Bill Werbenuik. The popular player made a guest appearance at the popular Red Triangle club.

1976

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THE town’s newest church official was welcomed to Condorrat Parish Church. Deaconess Ann Ballantine was introduced to members of Falkirk Presbytery by Reverend Bruc McNicol. Mr McNicol said that former teacher Miss Ballantine had been appointed at just the right time because the way the area was growing. Miss Ballantine from Shotts said: “I am looking forward to taking up this post and hope to move house to Condorrat soon.’’

A TOP name was confirmed as the lead in a film about Cumbernauld - actress Fenella Fielding. Filming was all set to start in the town and it was believed that Fenella would take on the role of a female James Bond type figure. Several local people had won parts in the film which was the second to to be commissioned by Cumbernauld Development Corporation. It was hoped that the 30 minute film would be screened on national television.

A BAN on pet dogs was being discussed in Cumbernauld after fears that too many strays were roaming the town and befouling pavements. The district council hoped to hold discussions with Cumbernauld Development Corporation with a view to withholding dog licenses - and that only police and guide dogs should be exempt.

1971

DON’T develop on this land - that was the message from a Cumbernauld congregation who wanted to save the green belt surrounding their church. The Kirk Session of Kildrum Parish Church was horrified to learn that a Masonic Temple was being planned in the area by Cumbernauld Development Corporation. Irate church members were convinced that the area was too heavily congested by traffic already and that a petition should be circulated to block the move.

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FAST movers from Cumbernauld High School won the Lennox Cup for cross country running for the third time in six years. Stuart Leitch (14) Stuart McLean (12) Kenneth McKenzie (14) and Raymond Drummond (14) beat the cream of Dunbartonshire schools on a tough course at Strathleven Industrial Estate in Dumbarton.

AMATEUR dramatics fans were given the opportunity to participate in an upcoming production of The Merry Widow by Cumbernauld Light Opera Club. The club which acted as a real social hub in the new town wanted potential cast members to sign up for two rehearsals per week at Cumbernauld High School.

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