From the archives

A look through the files of the Cumbernauld News

1996

A BREAK from teaching saw two well-known local men triumphing in a kayaking challenge. John Lafferty who had taught PE in a number of Cumbernauld schools and pal Ian Duncan of Cumbernauld College won the Scottish Coast to Coast race 57 minutes ahead of their nearest rivals! The race had seen them sail 190 miles!

abronhill residents who were fighting for a lower speed limit on their streets were told that their campaign was being considered at North Lanarkshire Council. Councillor William Carmichael had been approached by concerned residents of Birch Road who feared for the safety of children playing on the street. A petition requesting that permanent signs be erected in the area attracted 250 signatures.

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SOFT drinks giant Barrs put the fizz back into the town’s business profile after opening its new factory in Westfield. A legend was on hand to do the honours – three times world champion Jackie Stewart. He was joined by young contender Peter Dumbreck in his racing car for a well-attended photocall. Cumbernauld Development Corporation and Dunbartonshire Enterprise were thanked by management for the efforts they had made in assisting the firm in its re-location.

1986

CUMBERNAULD Theatre would play host to some of Scotland’s top live acts to coincide with the Arms Around Scotland anti-nuclear demonstration. The event would feature bands like The Styng Rytes, Strangers and Brothers and Cumbernauld’s own Whilt. Cumbernauld & Kilsyth District Council had organised the event, called Rockin’ For Peace- along with local artist Stu Henderson.

A BALLOCH couple won an award for their garden - which they had built up from nothing. Hugh & Brenda Sutherland of Baldorran Crescent had purchased their home from sponsors Barratt and were delighted at the accolade, especially as they were unused to having a bigger garden. Driving instructor Hugh said: “With the help of our daughter we managed a real team effort and are thrilled.’’

CzeCH preacher Thomas Bisek was looking back on his first year in Cumbernauld after fleeing religious persecution in his homeland. Based at Condorrat Parish Church, Rev Bisek and his family had experienced a huge culture shock but were honest about its effects on their lives. “We still have to find our way but this is where our future lies. We cannot go back. People here are very friendly. Their personal approach is helpful.”

1976

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BEAT this thief and take your washing in at night – that was the message from police who had dealt with no fewer than 20 thefts in one week all across town. The sheet rustler was happy to travel as his midnight forays involved Condorrat, Abronhill and all points in between. Inspector Neil Livingstone said: “I would ask housewives to take in their washing at night or they may have trouble with this character.’’

LENZIEMILL factories had workers out on strike, with no prospect of employees returning to work. Austin Packaging had 42 workers striking and Thames Case had a total of 185 workers involved in a walk-out. The Austin workers were protesting at the loss of 22 jobs and their neighbours were up in arms about the introduction of a controversial new bonus system. They argued this would lead to a loss in earnings. Bosses of both factories admitted that talks were at deadlock.

CUMBERNAULD band Silverbird were the star attraction at an upcoming charity ball at The Falcon Members Ian McLean, Ian Mulgrew and Hugh McKenna hailed from Kildrum and Gerry Dickson of Carbrain had been together for a year. Tickets for their gig would be available at Larry’s Record Bar priced £2 and proceeds would be donated to local pensioners.

1971

TRAILBLAZING training facilities were finally opened at the new South of Scotland Electricity Board headquarters in Wardpark. The £330,000 centre was bringing a new generation of electricians, mechanics and linesmen to Scotland. Trainees would be bussed out to Cumbernauld and Falkirk Technical Colleges to consolidate what they had learned on site. More than 20 instructors from all across the country had been taken on to pass on their skills. The trainees even lived nearby - at the YMCA managed Seafar House.

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HARDWORKING community volunteers were putting the finishing touches to the new look Cottage Theatre. Thanks to their handiwork, new seating ramps were created and new seats and carpets were ready to be installed. The interiors had been painted and the members’ bar was all set to open. An exciting programme featuring the pick of top fringe shows would be the first productions to be staged within the new theatre.

CUMBERNAULD Town Council hosted a civic reception for 36 young Europeans who were in town for three days.

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