Funding boost for Auchengeich memorial fund

The fund was launched last year to mark the 50th anniversary of Scotland's worst mining disaster.

The tragedy took place on September 18, 1959, when fire broke out in the pit and claimed the lvies of 47 men.

A memorial garden has been created next to Auchengeich Miners Welfare and the cetnre piece is a life-sized statue of a miner.

Staff and customers at The Original Factory Shop in Kilsyth took part in fancy dress days, raffles and various sponsored events over recent weeks to raise fund for the memorial fund.

Store manager Jennifer Barnes said: ''We all worked hard to raise this money as it is such a deserving cause.

"Everyone has been right behind us.The customers have been fantastic."

Auchengeich Memorial Committee secretary Willie Doolan said: "This is an outstanding total.

"It shows you the breadth of support we have, not just in the Moodiesburn area but in the wider community.

"These people have just got so much respect for what we are doing and we would like to thank them for all their support."