Guest Book
Welcome to the Pavilion Guest Book. Please feel free to post a comment or question here, whether about your memories of the Pavilion or about more recent events. Alternatively, you could post a comment on our Myspace page, click here to link to it.
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regarding Jimmy Wilson
“I would like to add, (share)our comments & nostalgic thoughts regarding Jimmy. We, my boyfriend (now my husband)were at the last dance that the(complete) band played in at the Joss Street Hall Invergordon. As I look back to that night I always feel how sad it was that it was their last session together & the last time I saw Jimmy. The last dance music/song was The Young Ones recorded by Cliff Richard. They were all so cheery & loved every minute playing for us. Songs we loved they played also,jive, quickstep, slow waltz the foor was never empty. Men on 1 side women on opposite light full on we loved it! Lemonade & crisp sales at the door. No Booze! Not like today, at least we got near our partner for a slow dance held hands in a Jive, Wow!!We followed all the dances where they played. My family knew him well as I once lived in Dingwall, small town we all knew one another. I was so very shocked to hear that after such a great dance he left to die hitting a tree near Evanton. A bright shining light gone out for ever. I still get a sad feeling of that night & the horrible memory it has left with me after all these years. My thoughts still go back when I visit Fodderty churchyard where my Dad is burried. Jimmy has left a bright & shining light in all whom knew him & will never be forgotten as each year goes by, sad thoughts also of his family now gone too. I think memories never fade. I'm sure other people will have their own but these are a few. His happy smile as he played I remember & that is the Jimmy we should all remember. These thoughts, fondly added by myself & my husband.
”
Sent 06/12/2009
From
Reply
Re:- regarding Jimmy Wilson
“Many thanks for sharing your memories, Maureen. Jimmy Wilson played at the Pavilion many times in the '60s with the Melotones, and I'm sure is remembered fondly by many others. See also Bert MacKay's post further down the page.
”
Sent 07/12/2009
From
Reply
Deacon Blue at the Pavilion!
“Had a fab night at Deacon Blue. Wonderful venue. More please.
”
Sent 13/06/2009
From
Reply
Re:- Deacon Blue at the Pavilion!
“Hello Shona, thanks for the comment. Deacon Blue were fantastic, weren't they? And we loved Ricky's comment, "Great atmosphere - like Saturday night at the Barrowlands"!
”
Sent 15/06/2009
From
Reply
sign up for news
“Can you sign me up to get e-mailed for news/ whats on etc . Can't find link. Ta. Iain
”
Sent 28/05/2009
From
Reply
Re:- sign up for news
“Hello Iain, thanks for the post and I've added you to our events emailing list. Sorry you couldn't find an email link on the website, I'll have to look into that!
”
Sent 02/06/2009
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Norse god Garry?
“A couple of years ago I visited Strathpeffer and down by the old Railway Station on the carpark were some carvings - one of which was of the god(?) Garry - can anyone confirm the story at all, who he was and the story of him. There was a plaque at the side with a write up - I did take a photo but due to computer probs I have lost it and would like to have another copy of it - if anyone could help out I would be eternally grateful - Thanks bery much - Gary P
”
Sent 08/01/2009
From
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Re:- Norse god Garry?
“
Not a Norse god, I don't think - perhaps a local giant? The sculptures are now in the Pavilion Gardens and I think that's one that I can see from here, so I'll go and check out what the story is when I get a mo.
”
Sent 09/01/2009
From
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Re:- Norse god Garry?
“Hello Gary, sorry it's taken me so long to go and check out the sculpture you asked about. The story is that Garry was the smallest (only 15 feet tall!) of a race of giants who lived in a fort on Knockfarrel, the hill above Strathpeffer. Legend has it that, because he was small, he couldn't keep up with his fellow-giants when they went hunting and so, having lost the others, he was heading home on his own one day when the giant children played a practical joke on him. He was furious, chased them into the fort and then set fire to it, with all the women and children inside.
The other giants arrived too late to save their families, so that was the end of the race of giants. They set off after Garry, killing him in a local glen, which was thereafter called Glen Garry.
There are remains of a vitrified fort, thought to date from the Iron Age, on Knockfarrel to this day and scholars disagree on whether the vitrification was the result of an accidental fire or a deliberate part of the building process.
”
Sent 26/04/2009
From
Reply
Re:- Norse god Garry?
“Thanks Margaret - got your message and have read it - makes sense and is all coming abck to me now - I hope to be in your neck of the woods soon so will visit the gardens and replace the pictures. Once again thanks - Gary
”
Sent 29/04/2009
From
Reply
Capri Showband.
“forty years ago I played the Strathpeffer Pavilion as drummer with the Capri Showband from N. Ireland. I have great memories when played 3 weekends in may/june 1968. We slept in the Pavilion bunk room, and ate in the Highland Hotel. During the day we went hill walking to Rogie Falls etc., and at night we rocked in the Strath. The locals were fantastic. Best wishes to all. ....... Dave Love Co. Antrim.
”
Sent 19/11/2008
From
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Re:- Capri Showband.
“Glad you have such great memories of Strathpeffer, Dave, thanks for sharing them!
”
Sent 21/11/2008
From
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Was the Pavilion a maternity hospital?
“On my grandmother's birth certificate it states she was born in the Strathpeffer Pavilion in 1913. Was it ever a maternity hospital?
”
Sent 14/10/2008
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Re:- Was the Pavilion a maternity hospital?
“Wow, that's amazing! The Pavilion was never a maternity hospital, so far as I know It was used as a hospital by the US Navy during the First World War, but 1913 is a bit too early for there to be any connection with that.
”
Sent 14/10/2008
From
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THE MELOTONES ERA
“Great website.
I just returned to Canada from a Melotones Band Reunion in Dingwall and of course recall the famous Beatles Night. I replaced Bob Hunter as Melotones guitarist when Bob went to play for Harry Shore at the Caley Ballroom in Inverness. We played the Strath many times but also played from Glasgow to Thurso two to three times a week. I recall the Beatles night only faintly as we were backing up another group that night but on the way to the Strath we saw the "Fab Four" waiting for their gear on the Town Hall steps in Dingwall. Later on the Strath had almost 1000 dancers while the Beatles gig failed and closed early. They then came to the Strath and several friends saw them. I did not. The Melotones played more at the Strath than any other group and the Pavilion was where I met my future wife, where else?
Regrettably I was there when Jimmy Wilson had his accident (Alness road) and when he passed away in GLasgow. The Wilson brothers from Dimgwall were not only great musicians but also great entertainers and had a tremendous fan base for a small part-time band.
Jimmy (piano and vocals) Willie(bass/drums and vocals) Eck (drums and vocals) Jimmy Stewart (alto sax) Ronnie Reid (tenor sax) Johnnie Fisher (tenor sax) Fergie Brown(trumpet) Dodo Ross (accordion and drums) Bert MacKay (Guitar) Later Ian (Jock) FRaser replaced Jimmy on keyboard and Eric Sutherland played a groovy bass.
It is clear that the Strath holds tremendous memories for fans and musicians alike. I recall a grey haired old lady offering me ten pounds to play "Wheels" as that was her late husbands favourite tune. I played that tune several times that night.
This comment is in the memory to and dedication to Jimmy, Willie and Eck Wilson, Jimmy Stewart,Johnnie Fisher, Dodo Ross, Jackie Cameron and other musicians who passed away over the years. Drop me a line anytime to Canada. Thanks to Arthur Scott for this great website.
God bless.
Bert MacKay, Melotones.
bertmackay@shaw.ca
Alberta Canada.
”
Sent 25/09/2008
From
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Re:- THE MELOTONES ERA
“Thank you very much for sharing all this info, Bert. Arthur Scott's website (which is indeed a great source of info and quite fascinating) is not this one though, but www.thestrath.co.uk. Bert obviously knows this but, for other people's info, it's all about the Pavilion dances in the 1960s and '70s and Arthur put it together after a great deal of research.
”
Sent 29/09/2008
From
Reply
Re:- THE MELOTONES ERA
“The Melotones - I can remember Eck Wilson and Dodo Ross. I went into the town hall and saw this pop group stayed 5 minutes and went to Simonelli's for fish and chips in the restaurant. 5 months later I found out they were the Beatles - I was gutted. You might know my family my grannie had James Urquhart & sons ironmongers high street. Jim Urquhart was my uncle
regards
Mike Horne
”
Sent 20/05/2009
From
Reply
Blazin' Fiddles
“Well, if you thought the Pavilion was hot when the Chiefs were here, you should have felt the heat last Friday!
Blazin' Fiddles were absolutely wonderful, what a great gig, hope they'll be back soon! Andy and Marc will already be back on 12th September to take part in the Ceolraidh concert as part of the Blas festival.
More comments welcome!
”
Sent 05/09/2008
From
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Re:- Blazin' Fiddles
“Sadly for us, the Blazin' Fiddles gig booked for 1 May 2010 had to be postponed because of the big charity event at Bogbain - however, we do hope the Blazers will be back at the Pavilion in late summer, can't wait!
”
Sent 22/02/2010
From
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Kaiser Chiefs - 20/05/08
“Well, can I just say that last Tuesday was simply the best gig I have ever been to! I had an absolute blast - brilliant atmosphere and obviously, brilliant band!
I can't believe that one of the last times I was at the Pavillion was for a Renaissance concert for my Higher Music - slight contrast to Tuesday!
Thank you so much for an amazing night - definitely wouldn't have been the same at another venue.
Jenny from Nairn
”
Sent 26/05/2008
From Jenny
Reply
Re:- Kaiser Chiefs - 20/05/08
“Thank you very much, Jenny - yes, last Tuesday was amazing. The Pavilion's a great venue for all sorts of things - after the Kaiser Chiefs, we had the Highland Chamber Orchestra on Sunday (another contrast like yours!) and our next big event is famous comedian Fred MacAulay on 7 June!
”
Sent 27/05/2008
From
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Kaiser Chiefs
“Great gig! Really was worth it travelling 1900 kilometres, and the Scottish Highlands were amazing!
”
Sent 23/05/2008
From
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Re:- Kaiser Chiefs
“Thank you! Although you haven't put your name, I can guess from the 1900 km that you're the person (all the way from Germany) whose tickets arrived late. So glad you enjoyed it and thanks for coming!
”
Sent 26/05/2008
From
Reply
Re:- Kaiser Chiefs
“Ooops, sorry, forgot to put my name in my first post.
Thanks again to all the people involved in the organization! It was fantastic!
”
Sent 26/05/2008
From
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Kaiser Chiefs 19/05/08
“Came to your part of the world for the Chiefs gig on Monday. What a lovely place. Venue was great, brilliant sound. Everyone was so nice and friendly. Chiefs were amazing. Thanks for a great time.
”
Sent 22/05/2008
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Re:- Kaiser Chiefs 19/05/08
“Thank you, Marie Louise, we hugely enjoyed having the Kaiser Chiefs here - and their fans too, what a great audience, from near and far! I think we can consider the Chiefs well and truly warmed up for Elland Road! ;-)
”
Sent 22/05/2008
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last night - Kaiser Chiefs
“last night was simply amazing, loving the venue and can't wait for tonight :D
”
Sent 20/05/2008
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Re:- last night - Kaiser Chiefs
“Thanks Dani - great, wasn't it! We all had a good time, hope the Kaiser Chiefs enjoyed it too, lots of smiley faces around here today and we're all looking forward to their second gig tonight too!
”
Sent 20/05/2008
From
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Re:- last night - Kaiser Chiefs
“Well, I think the second gig was even better than the first - just a great atmosphere, the Kaisers were awesome and we're told they "had an absolute ball". Which is great because everyone else certainly did! It was nice to meet you too, Dani and I hope you enjoyed your visit to the Highlands. Safe journey home!
”
Sent 21/05/2008
From
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Kaiser Chiefs
“Thanks to the Kaiser Chiefs who made it onto the BBC news website I have ventured onto your website. What a fantastic building and an interesting history it holds. Fantastic to see bands like the Kaisers supporting out of the way local venues. I may be way down south in Berkshire but definitely hope to check out the Pavillion for myself one day.
”
Sent 19/04/2008
From
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Re:- Kaiser Chiefs
“Thanks Ellie! Of course we're delighted that the Kaiser Chiefs are coming to Strathpeffer and lots of people have found our website from the BBC's and the KCs' own websites. ;-)
”
Sent 21/04/2008
From
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Bobby Dene / Dean and the Dynamos
“I know I played between 1962 / 64 as I was asked to join the Red Hawks the resident group on lead guitar in the Kinema Ballroom Dunfermline which I did in Nov 1963.
”
Sent 29/03/2008
From
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Bobby Dene and the Dynamos
“As lead guitarist with Bobby Dene we played about 1962/64 I seem to remember we were put up in a detatched bungalow across the street I can't remember where we got food to eat.
I think we may have played on Friday and Saturday then travelled down on the Sunday to play in Blairgowrie or Coupar Angus or somewhere in that area then heading home to Dunfermline on the Sunday night.
”
Sent 27/03/2008
From
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Re:- Bobby Dene and the Dynamos
“Hello Watty, thank you for your message. If you look on Arthur Scott's website about Pavilion performers in the 1960s and '70s, you'll see that Bobby Dean (sic) and the Dynamos played the Pavilion on 14th and 15th May 1965, supported by Jerry and the Oreogons. The relevant page is geocities.com/the_strath/1965.htm - I can't put a live link in here, but you can copy and paste it into your browser.
”
Sent 28/03/2008
From
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Galaxy Showband
“I was lead vocalist with the Galaxy and we played the spa late 1969, what a great venue and fond memories of strathpeffer I have. As we left to come back home for xmas our coach overturned in a snow blizzard just south of Inverness - the gear and coach were completely wrecked but we all escaped serious injury, thankfully. Not seen or heard of any band member since as we were disbanded on our return. I send all of them my best wishes. Thanks for the good times. Tom E. King
”
Sent 07/03/2008
From
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Re:- Galaxy Showband
“Thank you for this, Tom, very interesting. If I remember rightly, the Sterling Showband, who were the Pavilion's resident band from 1967 to 1969, then changed their name to the Galaxy Showband (and signed a recording deal?).
I didn't know about the accident you mention, but several of the band members settled in the area and Joe Donaldson, Jim Evans and Freddie McKnight have played in the restored Pavilion several times with other musicians - most recently on 1st March in a tribute concert to comedian Johnny Bogan and other previous performers in the Pavilion.
”
Sent 13/03/2008
From
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Re:- Galaxy Showband
“Sir,Can you help as a last resort.Can you help me track down Glen Curtin E-mail address etc? Have tried Amazon who have 3 cds which I already have.He sang with the Galaxy showband maybe some of the ex band members could help.came across your web site in my search.Brings back great memories Thanks, Eddie OAP.
”
Sent 04/11/2008
From
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Re:- Galaxy Showband
“re glen curtin eddie i took over from freddie mc kight as lead vocalist with the galaxy, maybe he can help you. good luck on yor quest. regards tom e king
”
Sent 08/11/2008
From
Reply
Re:- Galaxy Showband
“re re glen curtin eddie found glens name on another site and he fronted the nevada showband and the new blues showband, i dont know what year, but maybe this might help you regards, tom e. king
”
Sent 12/11/2008
From
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Re:- Galaxy Showband
“Many thanks Tom King.I since sourced a
Web site in Dublin, actually its a music shop, and the say they may be able to help.many thanks for all the help.Regards Eddie.
”
Sent 19/11/2008
From
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the seventies discos
“I remember the spa quite well in the 70s as it was the only place around for miles for a friday and saturday entertainment for our youth generation and the good part was the free bus there and back. well as you know we were not perfect when we left the venue as fights would always break out with the local and visitors on the way to our buses. but i must say the local cells were always busy and full on these night although i never ended up there myself and yes i did go to the dance every friday. as i remember the local lads the ercheks around the corner were not to be reckoned with. the pavilion was a fantastic place for my teenage years while i stayed in Alness but now in edinburgh and much older i might add. I would say the Pavilion is a landmark of strathpeffer or the strath and i hope will be around for another 100 years for all to enjoy as i did in my youth. so come on all you young uns up there use and enjoy respect and preserve your local heritage for your future generations to come and for your historical culture and history through time so lets keep it going
thanx
J Horne
”
Sent 15/12/2007
From
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Re:- the seventies discos
“Thank you for this - nice to read people's memories of the Pavilion and I'm also glad to say that an increasing number of young people are indeed peforming in events (particularly musical events) here as well as attending dances etc.
”
Sent 17/12/2007
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Highland Hotel Catering College
“anyone remember the catering college in the Highland Hotel? Used to enjoy our escapades to the pub at the Pavilion.
Also all the staff/lecturers in h.h. were quite something else
”
Sent 25/09/2007
From
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Re:- Highland Hotel Catering College
“Yes my cousin Donald Ross trained there
”
Sent 22/12/2007
From
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1933 picture
“My grandfather John Grant Urquhart was in charge in some capacity at the pavilion during the 1920s/1930s we think. He had 5 children, Ian my Father, Alex, Lily, Anne & Jess.
The photograph taken by Isobel MacMillan contains a gentleman at the back with the striped tie who looks incredibly like my Dad. Does anyone have any more information about this time & does anyone know if this might be my Dad as all the family have now sadly passed away & we have no-one to ask. My Dad was born in 1908 & lived in Inverness.
”
Sent 19/08/2007
From
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Re:- 1933 picture
“That's interesting, Sally, and I hope someone will be able to give you some information.
I don't think Isobel MacMillan actually took the 1933 photo though - she just kindly sent us a copy of it!
”
Sent 21/08/2007
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bands
“had some great night playing with the sundowners and tommy truesdale early seventies..great to see it back to its former glory good luck
”
Sent 18/06/2007
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Re:- bands
“Thank you Brian, hope you've also been able to visit the Pavilion since it was restored. Also, have you looked at the www.thestrath.co.uk website, which has lots of info about the dances?
”
Sent 29/06/2007
From
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Re:- bands
“yes i have had a good look through the site and i know loads of the bands from away back.i have been in your area loads of times with my own band MIDNIGHT EXPRESS -but not travelling so much now adays..great site and brings back loads of great memories.good luck and thanks for taking time to reply..
”
Sent 01/07/2007
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Re:- bands
“
My dad was a member of Vince Newman and The Veltones way back in the sixties, and played at The Pavilion. He was the guitarist, Ali Mcdonald. Any information or photos would be very welcome.
”
Sent 04/07/2007
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Re:- bands
“Thank you for this - afraid we ourselves don't have any info about or photos of the Veltones but I see from Arthur Scott's great website about the Pavilion dances www.thestrath.co.uk that the Veltones first played in the Pavilion in September 1964 and continued to do so for a year or so. If anyone here has any further information about the band, I hope you will let V. McDonald know!
”
Sent 04/07/2007
From
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Re:- bands
“My Dad was also a member of Vince Newman and the Veltones!(Jim Steele, bass guitar. It would be great to find any photos/info about them.
”
Sent 12/07/2007
From
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Re:- bands
“There's now more info about Vince Newman and the Veltones, with a photograph and newspaper article, on the www.thestrath.co.uk website, on the page listing Pavilion performers in 1964
”
Sent 02/04/2008
From
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Re:- bands
“Hi bonzo , you still gigging?
I remember all the fights
”
Sent 05/07/2008
From
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Just saying hello
“Just dropped in to take a look at the website, wonderful. Plan to return to take a better look around the Pavillion looks most impressive. Keep up the good work.
”
Sent 02/04/2007
From
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Re:- Just saying hello
“Very nice site!
”
Sent 05/06/2007
From
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The Multimap
“Hi!
Sorry, but I forgot to mention that I cannot figure out how to get back to the Multimap, or the other one you replaced it with; how does one go about this?
”
Sent 13/03/2007
From
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Re:- The Multimap
“
Your comments much appreciated, Graham, thank you. I've changed the Multimap link on our Welcome page so that it shows the north of Scotland with the approximate position of Strathpeffer circled in red. I've also now inserted another link there, to a page with some hints on how to use the Multimap. (I actually discovered a few other things about it as a result of your questions!)
”
Sent 13/03/2007
From
Reply
Is this the way I sign your guestbook?
“Hello All, and espcially Margaret! I'm visiting your website as a result of all the great links Margaret has sent me, in response to sending her photographs, and this came about due to me running CPDN. If you're reading this Margaret, many thanks, and maybe you're the only one who knows what "CPDN" stands for! Graham.
P.S. This is a very interesting website, but prior to visiting it I hadn't a clue where Strathpeffer is, and the Multimap, although helpful, could have been a lot more informative if it was possible to maximise it in some way. Also, I was amused to learn I recently 'bore' "twins"; but hopefully in the near future as CPUs get more advanced, maybe I'll be able to upload "quads" - LOL! Och....sounds painful!
”
Sent 09/03/2007
From
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Re:- Is this the way I sign your guestbook?
“
Yes it is, Graham, well done! Thank you for the message, and for the earlier photographs too!
For everyone else, CPDN stands for climateprediction.net, the biggest climate change experiment in the world, and you can find out more about that on the "Other events and links" page of the Pavilion website. Graham is donating the unused capacity of his computer to the experiment, and the Pavilion is doing the same. And, Graham's computer being more powerful than anything we have at the Pavilion, he was recently able to deliver two climate models at once - hence his reference to "bearing twins"!
Graham, sorry you didn't find the Multimap helpful - do you mean that you couldn't see how to zoom out, or that you wanted the whole thing to be bigger? If the former, maybe I should change it so that it links to a map of the north of Scotland that you can zoom into. If the latter, I will have to look at alternative map sources - but of course most people coming to the Pavilion are looking for it in relation to Inverness, rather than in relation to Peterhead! LOL
I would be grateful to anyone else who would like to comment about the map - or indeed about anything else in the website that you think should be done differently - we aim to please!
”
Sent 09/03/2007
From
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One good turn deserves another
“Margaret posted to my visitors' book, so this is a post in return!
Nice site. Keep up the good work.
Alistair
”
Sent 17/02/2007
From
Reply
Re:- One good turn deserves another
“
Thank you Alistair!
”
Sent 18/02/2007
From
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Memories
“Hello!!! Good God this brings back memories!! I used to live up here in strathpeffer just around the corner from Strathpeffer School. In fact i attended that school, but left in P5-Mrs Thompson's class. A great big shout out 2 all my old classmates: Hiya!!!!!! N my Best buds, Kate, Sara-Jane, Kirsten, Sally, Armelle!!! To many 2 name! Also a big hello to Liz, Kenny, Jenny, Barbara, Jenny.S, Jamie, Irene & Richard! I miss you all so much. Fabulous 2 see the Pavilion up and running again! Wish i had the chance 2 dance there! xxFayexx
”
Sent 16/02/2007
From
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Re:- Memories
“Thank you Faye - I recognise some of the names you mention, so hope they will see this! Also hope you will have a chance to dance at the Pavilion sometime.
”
Sent 18/02/2007
From
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good reading
“hi there i would just like to say how much i enjoyed browsing this website as my father Billy Dell used to be a resident in the pavilion when he was a member of the "Sterling Showband" and i have heard many delightful stories of his days there with the rest of the boys who all came from Northern Ireland , most of them are still in the music circuit today although my dear daddy is a bit grey and fine on the head these days, he can still give it whatfor on these drums. thankyou x x x
”
Sent 08/02/2007
From
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Re:- good reading
“Thank you very much for this Allana - as you doubtless know, former members of the Sterling Showband have twice performed at very popular and successful dances in the Pavilion in the last couple of years and we hope they might do so again. Amazing to think that this year is the 40th anniversary of the band's first performance here!
”
Sent 09/02/2007
From
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Dynamos Showband
“I played with the band there in the early '70s with Heather Mackay, Geordie Jack, Robert Cameron, Mackie Sutherland and Manson Grant. What a fantastic venue and the crowd were extremely enthusiastic and appreciative. Great memories of great gigs there, does anyone remember seeing us there ?
Visited it last week and was very glad to see that it has kept the same look as before, I could almost hear our band playing. Memories, oh such great memories.
”
Sent 23/10/2006
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Re:- Dynamos Showband
“Thank you for your nice comments and for sharing your memories with us. I'm sure many people remember the Dynamos - and we're planning to have them back in the Pavilion soon, which I'm sure will be a popular event! Now confirmed for Friday 5th January 2007 - tickets only £6 if bought before 21st December, £9 thereafter.
”
Sent 23/10/2006
From
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Re:- Dynamos Showband
“dont know why I clicked on this site but was very surprised to see the comment from John Innes re the dynamos. It cant be the John that played bass with us. Where are you now and where is the lovely Mackie. Very fond memories indeed I wish they were all back again. Would be my dream to sing again with the dynamos they truly were the best. Email me John with all your news - would love to hear from you. Yours truly Heather Mackay.
”
Sent 22/03/2007
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Re:- Dynamos Showband
“
Thank you very much for this, Heather, and I hope you will hear from John Innes.
Manson Grant and the Dynamos played at the Pavilion again for a New Year Dance on 5 January and they were just great! A very good time was had by all.
”
Sent 23/03/2007
From
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Re:- Dynamos Showband
“Wow, Heather. I've just emailed you.
Let's get a Dynamos Showband reunion. Hey, if Westlife can do it...lol.
”
Sent 23/12/2007
From
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Re:- Dynamos Showband
“Emailed you Heather. Couldn't believe it when I saw your reply.
”
Sent 26/12/2007
From
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hyro
“Just to say that I'm really looking forward to playing in Strathpeffer again with HYRO and everyone should come and see us play! it's gona be ace.
”
Sent 10/10/2006
From
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Re:- hyro
“Thanks "sunflower06". The Highland Regional Youth Orchestra is due to play in the Pavilion again on 4 November, and we're looking forward to it too. I only wish everyone could indeed come and hear you play but last year all the tickets were taken by family and friends of the performers and none were available to the general public! Probably the same again this year?
”
Sent 11/10/2006
From
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More Beatles!
“Further to his message below, Ken McNab has e-mailed us:
"I am currently researching a possible book about the band's links with Scotland and obviously those early tours up north figure prominently.
So if any of your regular contacts were at any of these concerts, particularly Nairn, Fraserburgh, Forres, Inverness, Aberdeen etc, I would be grateful if you could steer them in my direction.
I have already spoken to a number of people in those areas and the stories are very interesting. But obviously the more anecdotes the better.
Please keep in touch and the website is excellent by the way. I'll keep an eye on it.
Regards, Ken"
Ken's e-mail is ken.mcnab@eveningtimes.co.uk
”
Sent 30/08/2006
From
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The Drovers
“Iain Macnab asked (under "Performers" below) if anyone remembered The Drovers, so I just thought I'd mention that they appear on Arthur Scott's website about the Pavilion dances, www.thestrath.co.uk - and there's a particularly nice story about them there under March 1965
”
Sent 02/08/2006
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Nostalgia
“What price nostalgia? I used to go to the Strath dance in the late 40s early 50s on saturday nights. I left to join the Royal Navy in 1954 and got married (NUFF SED) We lived in Achilty cottage, and we were the McBeths. We will be visiting on holiday from 19th August - 2nd Sept. If anyone remembers me please E-Mail.
”
Sent 17/07/2006
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A Grand Place to Visit
“We visited Strathpeffer in 1998, when the reconstruction of your Strathpeffer Pavilion was just starting. We would so enjoy returning to the area to visit your restoration. There is a special feeling to your town, and we did enjoy our brief time there. We stayed in the old hotel just above your site. The highlight of our evening was watching a troop of young girls do Highland Dancing for the guests. They changed on the magnificent staircase. We also enjoyed watching several senior couples lift a glass and sing nostalgic songs with the piper. We hope to return!
Aye Scotland!
D & J Hunter
Myrtle Creek, Oregon
”
Sent 11/07/2006
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Re:- A Grand Place to Visit
“Thank you for your nice comments - we hope you get a chance to revisit Strathpeffer soon.
”
Sent 11/07/2006
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What a magnificent place and people - Trend Showband
“As a member of the Trend Showband I will never forget the many friends that made us so welcome at the "Spa". I do have a few photographs taken in the area. One is with the Bishop of Ross & Cromarty, he made the comment that his "congregation went up 50% when the Trend played the Pavillion."
Regards Hugo
”
Sent 09/06/2006
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Re:- What a magnificent place and people - Trend Showband
“Hello Hugo, thank you for getting in touch and for your nice comments. Did you know that there's a new website created by Arthur Scott, which lists all the bands who played in the Pavilion in its dance hall heyday? I didn't know when The Trend played here, so would you believe I just picked a year at random, 1970, and there you were, "Peter Boy and The Trend" playing for dances in the Pavilion every weekend in January 1970, then again that summer. Thereafter, I also found you several times in 1969 and 1971. Arthur's website is www.thestrath.co.uk and I'm sure he would also be interested to hear from you.
”
Sent 10/06/2006
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Re:- What a magnificent place and people - Trend Showband
“Just a footnote to the above - Arthur has now added an alphabetical index of performers to his website, so that site visitors can look up what year anyone first performed in the Pavilion.
”
Sent 10/07/2006
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Re:- What a magnificent place and people - Trend Showband
“We have just heard from Mickey Doherty, who also played the Pavilion with the Trend Showband and has affectionate memories of Strathpeffer and the venue. Mickey is now a presenter with Highland Radio - which is Ireland's top local radio station - and has given the Pavilion a few mentions on his show! You can listen to him on-line at www.highlandradio.com
”
Sent 04/08/2006
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Fair Trade
“I think you should put a bit on your website about the Green Kite fair trade shop at the Old Railway Station.
I am sure the owner Pat would be rather grateful.
”
Sent 24/05/2006
From Oscar (nickname)`
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Re:- Fair Trade
“Thank you for your suggestion. I know Green Kite (and Pat) of course but I don't think I can single out one particular shop. Maybe I'll start a "Shopping in Strathpeffer" page at some point. I'm aiming to do an "Eating Out in Strathpeffer" page first though
”
Sent 25/05/2006
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Glenn Miller anyone?
“We've visited the Pavilion and it's truly beautiful - well done to all those who accomplished this work. Just as we moved up - there was a Glen Miller evening advertised in Strathpeffer which we would have loved to have gone to but missed - does anyone know of another in the area???
Thanks
”
Sent 24/05/2006
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Re:- Glenn Miller anyone?
“Thank you for kind comments. It was a good night in the Pavilion with Tin Pan Alley and they have promised to come back, so keep an eye on our events list. I don't know of other Glenn Miller events but you could take a look at www.thebooth.co.uk, or some of the event websites listed on our "Other events and links" page, including the Hi~Arts website
”
Sent 25/05/2006
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Miss Pavilion 1967!
“Arthur Scott's fascinating (indeed totally addictive!) website listing performers at the Pavilion in the '60s and '70s is now at www.thestrath.co.uk (the original address still works too).
I notice that, when Freddie and the Dreamers played the Pavilion in April 1967, well-known DJ David Jacobs was also billed to be there and to choose "Miss Pavilion 1967". Does anyone know who was chosen?
”
Sent 12/05/2006
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All the best!
“All the best. looks nice! interesting site.
”
Sent 26/01/2006
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Re:- All the best!
“Thank you Mary - the Pavilion is indeed very nice and we're very proud of it! Hope you get a chance to come to some of our events.
”
Sent 13/02/2006
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the dances!!
“I loved the stories that my mum told me when I was a child, of all the laughter and music, dresses etc. That was where my father Leslie Williamson pursued my mother Mary Stewart. She often spoke of friends, all but 1 I've forgotten, her friend was called Jeannie Macdonald. I believe they used to get a bus to Strathpeffer from Inverness. Does anyone recall my mother/her friend/or father. I'm looking for photos as I have only 1 of my parents and that was on their wedding day. Many thanks Patricia
”
Sent 15/01/2006
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Re:- the dances!!
“Good luck Patricia - I hope that any of you who find the people you are looking for will let us know.
”
Sent 20/01/2006
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Highland Hotel Staff 1972
“I worked at The Highland Hotel in the early seventies as assistant manager and I would like to hear from anyone who also worked there at that time especially Derrick Brebner, Rosie or any of the locals who I used to party with.
”
Sent 06/01/2006
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Re:- Highland Hotel Staff 1972
“I hope someone can help Jim and Mick get in touch with their friends. You might both think about e-mailing the Strathpeffer & District Times too - it worked for the person researching Morven MacLeod. The editor's address is Liz@strathtimes.co.uk
”
Sent 09/01/2006
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Searching for a Friend
“Many years ago I worked in one of the big hotels in Strathpeffer and got friendly with a few locals, one in particular was a lad called Alisdair Rankine, if anyone knows of his whereabouts I would be very grateful.
”
Sent 28/12/2005
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Thanks
“A big thankyou from all the Lochaber members of HSWB. Playing at the Pavillion was awesome thanks again x
”
Sent 06/12/2005
From Guys from HSWB
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Re:- Thanks
“Thank you very much - afraid I missed the Highland Schools Wind Band performance (just heard and enjoyed the rehearsal), but I'm told you were excellent. I'll pass your comments on to all concerned here.
Regards, Webmaster
”
Sent 13/12/2005
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address
“what is the actual venue's address?!
”
Sent 18/11/2005
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Re:- address
“The address is on our "Get in Touch" page and it's just The Pavilion, Strathpeffer, Ross & Cromarty IV14 9DL. The older part of Strathpeffer basically doesn't have street names, though the centre is familiarly known as The Square (it's not square!) and the road up to the golf course is usually referred to as (oddly enough!) Golf Course Road.
”
Sent 18/11/2005
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The Rites and Stereoglo gig
“Totally brilliant gig by The Rites and Stereoglo on 28 October - thanks for reintroducing rock to the restored Pavilion, guys!
Thanks also to Robotone and Arts in Motion for sound and stunning visuals.
Not forgetting thanks to the fans for good humour and a great atmosphere.
”
Sent 02/11/2005
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Wedding in the Pavilion
“Soon to do a wedding in the Pavilion. Will give you lots of images then.
http://www.dundeedirect.co.uk/photo/
CONTACT: Mob Tel:07986 218665
eMail:dave@dundeedirect.co.uk
”
Sent 19/09/2005
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Re:- Wedding in the Pavilion
“Two of Dave's photographs (though not of a wedding) are now on our website
”
Sent 13/10/2005
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Morven MacLeod
“Hi there, I collect Scottish pottery and have recently acquired some pieces which were painted by Morven MacLeod who worked in Strathpeffer in the 1920s. I have been unable to find any background material regarding this artist and would be grateful if anyone would be able to shed some light. She painted celtic designs on pots.
”
Sent 30/07/2005
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Re:- Morven MacLeod
“As you know, we couldn't help you with this but have passed your question to a local researcher, who is looking into it. If anyone else out there can help, please let us know.
”
Sent 03/10/2005
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Re:- Morven MacLeod
“Well, it took a while but our suggestion that Pat Morrisey might write to our community newsletter, Strathpeffer & District Times has resulted in a very helpful and informative letter about Morven MacLeod and her family, written by Major John Whitelaw and published in the current "Strath Times". In case anyone else has a story or query for the newsletter, the e-address is Liz@strathtimes.co.uk
”
Sent 14/12/2005
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Re:- Morven MacLeod
“I have a lovely pottery plate painted by Morvev MacLeod of Strathpeffer. It is a view of Inverewe gardens. i waould be interested to know the history of the artist, could you possibly email me the findings of Major John Whitelaw
”
Sent 26/05/2007
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Re:- Morven MacLeod
“Sorry we don't have the text of Major Whitelaw's piece on Morven MacLeod. Could I suggest you try e-mailing the Strath Times or Pat Morrissey as above?
”
Sent 30/05/2007
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Re:- Morven MacLeod
“Hi there, sorry it's taken me two years to get back to you, but I have been very grateful to your readers and others who have contacted me regarding Morven MacLeod. She and her brother should really be celebrated and remembered in Strathpeffer for their artistic achievements.
”
Sent 31/01/2008
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Soon to visit
“Many a good night was spent at the dances in the Pavilion in the early 60's, I was at the Beatles dance in Dingwall which closed down early because very few people turned up. We then went on to the Strath.
I am coming back from New Zealand to see the Pavilion for the Clan MacKenzie World gathering and hope to catch up with old friends from Dingwall Academy[1957-60] and the Black Isle. ps A message to ex Black Isler from down under from another Black Isler from NZ If your name is John from Sydney please e-mail me.Would love to hear from you
”
Sent 18/07/2005
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Re:- Soon to visit
“We hope you enjoyed visiting the Pavilion for the Mackenzie Gathering - we certainly enjoyed meeting Mackenzies from all over the world - and the Saturday night ceilidh
”
Sent 25/08/2005
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Re:- Soon to visit
“Hi guys. I'm trying to trace anyone who saw the early Beatles' concerts. Can you help?
”
Sent 23/08/2006
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Re:- Soon to visit
“Hello, Ken, have you read the section "The Beatles at the Pavilion?" below? There is more information about the Dingwall gig on www.thestrath.co.uk, under January 1963
”
Sent 24/08/2006
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What did the pavilion look like inside in 1908 ?
“I work for the Am Baile website, adding data to 1200 photograhs taken by a Kyle of Lochalsh chemist, Duncan Macpherson. He worked at the Strathpeffer Spa before settling in Kyle in 1912, and we have a couple of photographs which are not titled, but we think might have been taken at the spa. One is of a band in uniform, another of a hall, the ceiling covered in antlers and stags heads. Could these be taken at the Pavilion ? If anyone can help, please get in touch at the above email, and hopefully they will appear on the ambaile.org.uk site soon.
Many thanks, Nanette
”
Sent 07/06/2005
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Re:- What did the pavilion look like inside in 1908 ?
“Nanette, if you e-mail me the photos I'll see if I can help. The hall with the antlers etc. doesn't sound like the Pavilion but maybe Strathconon Hall? The uniformed band sounds more likely.
Regards, Margaret
”
Sent 07/06/2005
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Photos
“There are photos (if my memory serves me well) in The Brunstane Lodge Bar of the Pavilion taken just before the out break of WWII (together with other photo's of the Strath). I provided copies to my father (Peter Houghton, Hillcrest) and I think he still has the proofs.
”
Sent 13/10/2004
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Re:- Photos
“Thank you very much for this - I'll check with Chris at the Brunstane Lodge and get back to you or your father if Chris doesn't have them any more.
”
Sent 14/10/2004
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Pavilion weddings
“It's been suggested to us that the marriage ceremony that took place here on 4 September might be the Pavilion's first ever, although there have been quite a lot of wedding receptions/dances here. Can anyone cast any light on that? The wedding that took place on 25 September 2004 was certainly the first civil marriage ceremony in the Pavilion's history.
”
Sent 10/09/2004
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1950s Children's Concerts
“Do you remember Mrs. Dick's children's concerts in the 1950s? Frankie Scott (nee Dick) has just kindly donated a photo album of the concerts, in memory of her mother, and we would love to hear from others who took part in them.
”
Sent 17/08/2004
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Re:- 1950s Children's Concerts
“I'd be grateful if the person who recently posted a comment on this subject could please do so again. Somehow, in the process of transferring to our new website, I've managed to lose it - sorry!
”
Sent 28/04/2009
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Re:- 1950s Children's Concerts
“Hi,
I was intrested to read on your guest book and the reference to the concerts in the 50s organised by Mrs Dick. I took part in at least two concerts and also was taught by Mrs Dick Highland dancing in the Victoria Hall. I understand there is a photograph album and as I and my sister will be visiting the Strath on the 29/30th May if it will be possible to view the photographs. My family all lived in Park Terrace and left the Strath in 1964.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Regards
Wilma Slocombe (nee Munro)
”
Sent 13/05/2009
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The Beatles at the Pavilion?
“Thanks to Steve Robertson of "the Rockshire Journal", who sent us the following amusing anecdote by Rocky Marshall, formerly of the Fingal McCool band:
"Strange to read of so much interest in the Beatles gigs in the North.
"I don't know how much help I can be except to tell you of our meeting. We (Fingal McCool) were not playing at the Strath - the FMC band was not formed until later - however we were in the habit of forming new bands every other week. (I can't remember our band's name at the time). When we met the Beatles band (I think they were called the Silver Beatles), we were en route to the Strath because all the dances in the area including Dingwall had failed. On arrival at the Strath we (and some of the musicians from the other bands) headed back stage to look and talk to the band that was playing (the Melotones)...late on the band from the Dingwall gig arrived ...very scruffy and all of them speaking a foreign language.....turns out that it was a strong Liverpool accent...We however spoke in God's tongue of the North which these people did not understand (the English education system I suspect).
"After much gesticulation and talking in very loud voices (as one does to foreigners), it turned out that they were looking for Joe the caretaker from the Dingwall Town Hall, either to get paid or get gear out of the hall.......someone pointed out "Joe" and the Beatles shuffled away to their destiny and great fortune and we are still here.
"It may be of some interest that some years later I was writing a column for the Caithness Courier ("Records at Random" by Bob May) and reviewed the first Beatles releases, as I recall said that I preferred the John Lee Hooker releases that came out at the same time and I am still of the same opinion today."
”
Sent 14/04/2004
From
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Re:- The Beatles at the Pavilion?
“This confirms that the band playing in the Pavilion that night was indeed the Melotones. Thanks to those who made other suggestions, including Freddie and the Dreamers, Gerry and the Pacemakers and the Blue Notes, led by former Dingwall Academy teacher Jackie Sutherland. Also thanks again to the Blue Notes, who recently played at a fund-raising event for the Pavilion!
”
Sent 15/04/2004
From
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Re:- The Beatles at the Pavilion?
“There is now a lot more information about this on Arthur Scott's website www.thestrath.co.uk, including anecdotes from people who attended the Beatles' gig in Dingwall in January 1963
”
Sent 13/07/2006
From
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Website content
“Please let us know if you have any comments on the website or any suggestions as to what we should include in it.
”
Sent 07/01/2004
From
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Re:- Website content
“Very good website and it would be even better if you could add a links section too. If you are looking for other rural community websites across Scotland you will find around 450 of them at http://www.ruralgateway.org.uk where we will be pleased to carry news of your efforts in the coming weeks.
”
Sent 20/01/2004
From
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Re:- Website content
“Thank you for comments. A links page is definitely on my "to do" list, but at the moment the list just keeps getting longer! Meantime there are some links to other relevant websites within our site. Grateful for suggestions of relevant links.
”
Sent 21/01/2004
From
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Re:- Website content
“I thought about the brahans seer and i always remember my grandad saying something about a stone close by that if it fell a third time would flood the surrounding area and has supposed to have fallen twice so far.
thanx
J Horne
”
Sent 16/12/2007
From
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Re:- Website content
“Yes indeed, that's the Eagle Stone (although it's now thought to depict a raven rather than an eagle). It's now firmly cemented into place so that it can't fall over a third time!
”
Sent 17/12/2007
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Performers
“Someone told me Kenny Ball and Acker Bilk had both performed at the Pavilion. Does anyone else remember that? Do you remember anyone else famous who performed there?
”
Sent 13/10/2003
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Re:- Performers
“Very interesting site. Have many memories of dancing at the Pavilion. Met my wife there, but I have some happy memories too!
”
Sent 21/08/2004
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Re:- Performers
“As a young entertainer, before I left The Black Isle...I'm sure I did some shows there With Dorothy Gollan and her dancers ..Plus Muir of Ord Comedian Johnny Bogan ..also the Ben Wyvis Hotel for the tourists ..I wonder if they are still presenting such shows ? A great site ..and good to see that someone is documenting the days of the Entertainers who appeared at the Strath Pavilion - keep up the Good Work. Slainte!
”
Sent 04/06/2005
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Re:- Performers
“Acker Bilk at the Strath. I remember standing outside listening to him. It must have been mid-60s. I was a West-Coaster living in the Dingwall Academy Hostel then. Everybody famous played at the Strath - from the Small Faces, Hollies, Pretty Things, Kinks, you name it. Anybody remember The Drovers Country and Western Band?
Nice memories - Iain Macnab
”
Sent 20/02/2006
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Re:- Performers
“Both of the above (and many others) may like to know that local historian and Pavilion supporter Arthur Scott has just put on-line a comprehensive list of all the acts in the Pavilion in the 1960s and '70s - take a look at it, new address is http://www.thestrath.co.uk (the original address still works too)
I haven't found Acker Bilk or The Kinks yet! However, the list does include Kenny Ball, Brian Poole & The Tremeloes, Millie, Freddie & The Dreamers, The Pretty Things, The Nashville Teens, The Fortunes, The Settlers - also The Drovers, as mentioned above.
”
Sent 04/05/2006
From
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Re:- Performers
“Does anyone know whatever happened to a Dingwall singer by the name of Kathrine Gordon ..I worked with her quite a lot as a young lad in both Dingwall and the Hotel and Pavilion at Strathpeffer ...We all worked in several shows usually run by Dorothy Gollan and featured her son Lloyd Gollan
”
Sent 27/05/2006
From
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