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Blantyre's free online news website. Est 2011. For all Blantyre news, please subscribe for charity.
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Non Profit Local News for Blantyre, Scotland to raise monies for charitable good causes.

06/07/2024

BLANTYRE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE
Third Avenue Road Closure

Third Road in Blantyre Industrial Estate is closed between West Avenue and Central Avenue from Wednesday 10th July to Thursday 11th July for resurfacing works.

Diversion is via West Avenue, Third Road, Central Avenue.

06/07/2024

DOCTOR SPARED JAIL
following prescription fraud

A doctor who admitted writing prescriptions for dead patients and collecting the medication for himself has been spared jail.

John Henderson, 39, hatched a scheme writing out fake forms over a seven month period and received the drugs from those prescriptions in chemists in Blantyre, Hamilton, East Kilbride, Uddingston, Kilsyth, Glasgow and Cambuslang.

He began writing bogus prescriptions for powerful painkillers that he later injected into his body. The scheme allowed him to obtain prescription medication by fraud between July 2021 and February 2022.

Henderson, of Gloucester, England pled guilty to a single charge of fraud at Hamilton Sheriff Court and narrowly avoided jail. Sheriff Linda Nicolson ordered him to pay £883.02 in compensation to the NHS and perform 100 hours of unpaid work

06/07/2024

RED BURN FARM
Fun day coming soon

The Red Burn Farm Inn at High Blantyre are hosting a charitable fun day on Monday 15th July.

The event aims to support MacMillan Cancer and will take place from 12 midday until 3pm.

The business is looking for anybody interested in hosting stalls. If people are interested could they please contact the Red Burn Farm page or call the restaurant on: 01698 822712.

A spokesperson told us, “We are still looking for stall holders and tables/stalls are £10 with the proceeds going to the charity. Tables are available if people don’t have their own. There will also be the emergency services/ fire truck, ambulance for educational purposes and pictures.”

Looks a good afternoon out!

05/07/2024

ELECTION RESULTS
Labour Landslide

Following a seismic 24 hours, congratulations go out to the winning election candidates, who for this area and surrounding areas, are each from the Labour Party.

It was a real ‘mixed bag outcome’ for all the parties. The UK wide swing towards Labour votes was a night of significant losses in Scotland for both the SNP and the Tories, a monumental success for Labour in England, a notable rise for Reform and Liberal Democrats with surging support for Nationalism in Wales and Northern Ireland.

For Scotland, after 56 declarations, Labour has won 37; the SNP 9; Liberal Democrats 5 and Conservatives 5 with 1 declaration in the Highlands still be made due to a recount. As with many other areas of the UK, Glasgow and the Central Belt turned red as voters put their faith in the Labour Party to deliver change.

Even closer to home…..the local successes were:

Joani Reid (Scottish Labour Party) has been elected to serve in the United Kingdom Parliament as the member for the East Kilbride and Strathaven constituency.

Imogen Walker (Scottish Labour Party) has been elected to serve in the United Kingdom Parliament as the member for the Hamilton and Clyde Valley constituency.

and Michael Shanks (Scottish Labour Party) has been elected to retain his MP position in the United Kingdom Parliament as the member for the Rutherglen constituency.

Voter turnout in these 3 constituencies was between 56% and 61%, with between 39% – 44% of the electorate choosing not to vote.

Finally, well done also to all parties and those individuals who were unsuccessful. They will be naturally disappointed. Their dedication, hard work and commitment during their election campaigns was commendable.

For now though, the day belongs to Labour.

05/07/2024

HISTORY IN THE FIELD
What's on this month

The Western Desert Recce Group are hosting a fantastic event at the David Livingstone Birthplace later this month which will see history ‘come to life’.

Get in amongst the displays and vehicles on 19th to 21st July 2024. The group, who are based at Blantyre Industrial Estate are inviting families to come along to this living history event and learn a little bit about WW1, WW2, The Home Front, The Cold War and more.

04/07/2024

POLLING STATIONS CLOSE
General Election

It's now after 10pm which means polls have closed across the UK in the general election. Anyone who is in the queue at a polling station before 10pm will still be allowed to vote.

The results of the exit poll is just announced, suggesting Labour will have a majority in a landslide victory. If it is correct, Sir Keir Starmer will be walking into No. 10 tomorrow and the Conservatives taking an absolute hammering. The exit poll also suggests Reform and Liberal Democrat gains and losses for the SNP.

The exit poll is designed to give an indication of the total number of seats in Great Britain that each party will win. Because the sample size of the exit poll in Scotland is smaller, a clearer picture of the result north of the border will not materialise until after the first results have been declared in the early hours of the morning.

The exit poll was carried out by polling company Ipsos, jointly for BBC News, ITV News and Sky News. It is therefore used with caution with all results still to play for.

Today's Scottish electorate – made up of people aged 18 and over who are registered to vote – is 4,081,585, according to the Electoral Commission.

The total number of postal voters in Scotland is 998,863, which is 24% of the electorate. That number has been on the rise across the UK in recent years, but there have been concerns about postal votes arriving in time for Scots who were off on their summer holidays during the election.

Good luck to all the candidates and parties.
We'll bring you actual results tomorrow.

04/07/2024

URBAN NEGLECT
Time to call this out

OK. We’re calling this out. Received too many messages. If you’re a visitor coming to Blantyre..... THIS is the first sight you’ll be greeted by. Traffic islands and verges, neglected small parcels of land which have become overgrown, weed-infested eyesores!

Overgrown with invasive weeds and litter, the traffic islands at Auchinraith Roundabout at High Blantyre and many other places in this town, are starting to symbolise the failures of local authority management and maintenance.

Look at this photo for example. It just looks terrible. One reader described this as “a post apocalyptic scene from ‘I am Legend’, as if all life has stopped for years”.

Covid can't be used as an excuse anymore.

This unchecked growth is unfortunately common now. Not only diminishing the aesthetic value of Blantyre but in some other locations also obscures traffic signs and hinders visibility, posing potential hazards to drivers and pedestrians alike. It’s time for the council to step up and own this spiralling decay and neglect and give us back a tidy, urban landscape we can at least say has had some attention.

Have your say. What areas in Blantyre have YOU seen which needs some attention? Photos?

04/07/2024

SCAM DOING THE ROUNDS
Be on the lookout

Facebook users should be wary of a new account hacking scam that could leave your device infected with malware.

Facebook posts saying ‘I can’t believe he’s gone’ and ‘I’m going to miss him’ are appearing on the social media platform. While it may be tempting to click on the links to find out what they’re about, …….be warned that the links lead to malicious malware downloads!

Do not click those links if you see them, and especially not if you have automatic downloads enabled on your devices.

Have your say. Have YOU seen this in recent months?

02/07/2024

ELECTION VOTING INFORMATION
This Thursday is Polling Day

Thursday 4th July is the UK General Election day! Every polling station across the country will be open from 7am to 10pm. If you’re at the polling station by 10pm you should still be allowed to vote, by joining a queue.

If eligible to vote, you will have received your polling card through your door which details which polling station nearby which you should visit. It could be a local school or community centre. To vote in this election, eligible voters must be aged 18 or over, have an acceptable form of photo ID and must be registered to vote by Tuesday 18 June.

If unsure where to vote, you can check here: https://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/info/200237/elections/1277/registering_and_voting/2

For Blantyre area the Polling Stations are:

High Blantyre Hall on Cemetery Road
High Blantyre Primary School
St Blanes Primary School
St Joseph’s Primary School
Auchinraith Primary School
and David Livingstone Memorial Primary.

A few changes for this election.....

You may have already voted by post. If not, please remember to vote in person, new rules ask for you to bring photographic ID along to the polling station. If your photo ID document has expired it will still be accepted so long as the photo is still a good likeness of you.

All votes will be counted on the night and results roll in overnight and the winning party is usually known by about 5am. If it’s a hung parliament expect bartering and horse-trading in an attempt to form a government.

Using the first past the post voting system, the candidate who gets the most votes becomes the MP for the constituency. As a result of the recent boundary changes in the South Lanarkshire area, the new constituencies will be known as:

East Kilbride and Strathaven
Hamilton and Clyde Valley
Rutherglen

Good luck to ALL the candidates.

02/07/2024

THROWBACK PICS PART 3 of 3
80s Party in the Park - 2019

Looking back through old pics tonight. Last set from FIVE Summers ago.... Stonefield Public Park, Blantyre 80's Party. Was this REALLY half a decade ago!?

Lots of tyre folks here. Recognise anybody? Were YOU there?

02/07/2024

THROWBACK PICS PART 2 of 3
80s Party in the Park - 2019

Looking back through old pics tonight. FIVE Summers ago.... Stonefield Public Park, Blantyre 80's Party. Who would be interested if we bought this back?!

Lots of tyre folks here. Recognise anybody? Were YOU there?

02/07/2024

THROWBACK PICS PART 1 of 3
80s Party in the Park - 2019

Mind this? Looking back through old pics tonight. FIVE Summers ago.... Stonefield Public Park, Blantyre 80's Party. About time we had some fun and brought this licensed event back!

Lots of tyre folks here. Recognise anybody? Were YOU there?

01/07/2024

PLANNING APPROVED AT LARKFIELD
New Sports Ground for Blantyre

Hot off the press! South Lanarkshire Council have in recent days approved planning for the redevelopment of the Larkfield Bing and securing a future for Larkfield Hall, Blantyre.

Following a successful planning application, Blantyre Soccer Academy’s proposals have now been approved with the formation of new football pitches and dedicated sports facilities going ahead.

Consent for the development to progress also includes the installation of new lighting, the refurbishment and extension of Larkfield Hall, formation of additional parking, the realignment and improvement of paths, er****on of fencing and associated improvements.

The Larkfield Hall and Bing is situated just off Stonefield Road and for many years has been neglected, almost derelict and in recent times, not maintained properly. The new plans secure a future for this land, putting the area back to use, right in the heart of Blantyre, with the hall also being available for community organisations.

BSA Charperson Jimmy Whelan told Blantyre Telegraph this evening, “BSA has worked tirelessly on the Larkfield project, overcoming every obstacle in our path.”

“It’s fantastic to see us granted planning consent and moving closer to making our dream a reality. We are looking forward to receiving our keys from the council to commence our works.”

Congratulations are offered here to BSA. Well done.

01/07/2024

HOLMSWOOD AVENUE
Road Closure this week

Holmswood Avenue is closed for 1 day later this week.

Holmswood Avenue between Morven Avenue and Myrtle Street will be closed on Wednesday 3rd July for resurfacing works. Diversion for vehicles and pedestrians is via Farm Road, Cowan Wilson Avenue, Myrtle Street, Holmswood Avenue, Berkley Drive, Kilburn Grove, Morven Avenue, and vice versa.

Local access to homes will be maintained.

30/06/2024

LANARKSHIRE FOOTBALL CLUB
New players wanted

Lanarkshire Football club are looking for U19 players in all positions to add to their already established team. Playing in the Scottish Premier AFA League.

Training is in Hamilton on Tuesday evenings, games on Friday evenings at home and usually Saturday mornings for away. Contact Colin on 07481 792472.

30/06/2024

QUARRY STREET, HAMILTON
Short stay Car Parking

New road markings have been introduced as part of the pilot scheme to permit short-stay car parking on Quarry Street, Hamilton.

This follows concerns raised by some motorists who found it difficult to identify the areas where parking was permitted in the Hamilton town centre street.

Discussions with Hamilton Business Improvement District (also known as Hamilton Our Town) led to an 18-month pilot initiative to make it easier for drivers to visit local businesses, beginning in February 2024.

Initial feedback has been good but further improvements will see the marked lay-bys made clearer, so motorists know where to park.

Motorists will continue to be able to park for up to 30 minutes within the marked areas, between 9.30am and 4pm. Vehicles can also use the bays on Cadzow Street (between Leechlee Road and Townhead Street) and the bay on Townhead Street between the same hours for up to 30 minutes.

Drivers are reminded that vehicles must not be parked outwith the marked areas, including delivery vehicles, and parking enforcement measures will be in force.

Since the pilot scheme began, it is acknowledged that some penalty charge notices have already been issued and the council will be able to review the circumstances if motorists wish to make contact.

Full details of parking policies, including fines and appeals can be found on the council website.

30/06/2024

COUNCIL SPENDING CUTS COMING
Further difficult decisions necessary

If you think cuts to public services have been woeful in recent times or that the town is looking untidy or unkept, then spare a thought for what’s coming. South Lanarkshire Council is facing a budget gap of more than £77 million over the next three financial years!

To address this, consideration will be required to what services the council can afford to continue to deliver and how these services are provided.

Executive Director of Finance and Corporate Resources, Jackie Taylor, said: “We are adopting a slightly different approach with our early budget indications this year, by looking at a medium-term strategy rather than just a year at a time.

“When we look at the financial years 2025/26, 2026/27 and 2027/28, we anticipate the budget gap will be £77.275 million.

“Difficult decisions will need to be made to balance the council’s budget. We will need to significantly change what we deliver over the next three years with the focus being on statutory services. There will likely be areas where we will need do consider whether we can continue to deliver services and if so, what those services will actually look like.

“As in previous years, we will be consulting with our communities on what matters to them and will communicate how we do that in the coming months. We have to make sure people understand the financial challenges the council is facing.”

Like all councils in the UK, public services are creaking.

Our primary concern about these local cuts, is the sheer lack of consultation taking place with the public, or in the case of the recent £45 charge for garden waste, the complete absence of it!

We’ve already requested to be given visibility of plans and advance notice of proposed consultation so we can see what this means for Blantyre’s parks, maintenance of outdoor spaces, for the sports centre, schools, community halls, library and what else this means for council tax charges, recycling and disposal services.

Have your say. What services do you think could be affected by the next raft of cuts? What should be prioritised?

30/06/2024

AUNTIE TRICIA IS BACK
Family Shopper & Billy's Cafe Initiative

Here’s a fantastic, special initiative over the upcoming Summer school holiday break!

Agnews Family Shopper and Billy’s Cafe on Glasgow Road, Blantyre is proud to offer a warm and inviting sanctuary for children to enjoy a complimentary hot meal and drink at their food to go or café.

Owner, David Agnew told us this week, “Our aim is to provide a comforting environment and a delicious meal for kids during the summer holiday.”

“To make this experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible, all children need to do is mention “Auntie Tricia” upon arrival, and our attentive staff will know to provide them with a hot meal, no questions asked.”

David continued, “We understand that the holidays can be a challenging time for some families, and we’re committed to providing a helping hand and a warm meal for those in need. At Agnews Family Shopper and Billy’s Cafe,we believe in the importance of community.”

“Our doors are open to all children who may benefit from a comforting meal and a friendly atmosphere. We want to ensure that every child feels welcomed and cared for, regardless of their circumstances.”

We invite you to spread the word about this special offer and encourage families in need to take advantage of this generous opportunity. The hope is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where children can feel safe and nourished during the Summer holiday break.

Agnews Family Shopper and Billy’s Cafe look forward to welcoming the children for a warm meal and a delightful experience. Well done to David and all his staff for this brilliant initiative.

29/06/2024

BARNHILL TAVERN
2nd Soft launch evening

The Barnhill Tavern on Bardykes Road, Blantyre was again packed to the rafters this evening as customers enjoyed the second soft launch evening this week.

The second and final soft launch evening tonight Saturday 29th June 2024 had many local people out enjoying themselves, in great company and seeing the stunning renovations for the first time. Recognise anybody?

The Barnhill Tavern opens officially to everybody from this Monday 1st July at midday.

29/06/2024

NEIGHBOURHOOD ECOSYSTEM GRANTS
Community Group Funding

The Neighbourhood Ecosystem Fund is now open for applications.

The Fund seeks to inspire, encourage, and enable communities to explore and deliver ambitious ecosystem restoration projects locally. It also seeks to raise awareness about the importance of local ecosystem restoration and address barriers faced by community-led efforts.

Community groups can apply for up to £13,500, with successful applicants receiving up to £1,500 in professional fundraising support in addition to their grant.

Who can apply

To apply for this funding, you must be a not-for-profit community-led organisation based in a specific geographic area in Scotland.

Your project must focus on one (or more) parts of ecosystem restoration. These are:

Connecting nature corridors
Habitat and species restoration
Freshwater and wetland restoration
Coastal and marine initiatives
Control of invasive non-native species impacting on nature
Enhancing and connecting nature within villages, towns, or cities
How to apply
Please read the Guidance Notes to find out more about the fund and check you are eligible to apply to the fund. They also have an Easy Read version.

If you think you are eligible and would like to apply, you need to complete the Expression of Interest Form. Completing the Expression of Interest https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7827055/Neighbourhood-Ecosystem-Fund-EOI will give you access to:

A link to the online form, through which you submit your application
A Microsoft Word copy of the questions, to help you prepare your application
A copy of the budget template
A copy of the Fund Information & Guidance Notes

You must submit your complete application by 12pm (midday) on Wednesday 3 July.

29/06/2024

PHOTO ID NEEDED
On Election Day

Residents are reminded to ensure they have photo ID when voting at a polling station on Thursday, 4th July.

Under new rules introduced by the UK Government, anyone voting in person at a General Election must show an accepted form of photo ID.

This includes a passport, driver’s licence, Young Scot Card, Scottish National Entitlement Card or a blue badge. A full list of accepted ID is given at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-and-elections/voter-id.

Polling places are open from 7.00am to 10.00pm on 4 July and all are accessible.

Voters should check their polling card for the address of their polling place, as it might have changed since the last time they voted. Or enter your postcode on the Electoral Commission web site.

Anyone who has registered to vote but not yet received their polling card should contact their election office on [email protected] or 01698 302058 or 302026.

The UK Parliamentary General Election is run on a first past the post system so voters should only place one X on the ballot paper at the name of their preferred candidate.

This is the first time that voter ID is needed at an election in Scotland. It is important to check the list of accepted voter ID and make sure you have this with you before you vote on 4 July.

There will be signs at the entrances as a reminder and we advise voters not to enter the polling station without the appropriate ID, as they won’t be allowed to vote and will be asked to complete a form.

Anyone who has applied for a postal vote is asked to return it in plenty of time. Postal votes can be handed in at a polling station but new rules mean that voters will be asked to complete additional paperwork which will take extra time.

Election staff will be available in polling places to answer any questions. Information on voting is also available from the Electoral Commission at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-and-elections/ways-vote/voting-person

29/06/2024

Anybody else getting just a bit annoyed at this 'summer' weather?

29/06/2024

GAS & ELECTRICITY
Prices Falling from Next Week

Energy prices are falling next week.

From 1 July to 30 September the price for energy a typical household who use electricity and gas and pay by Direct Debit will go down to £1,568 per year. This is £122 per year lower than the price cap set from 1 April to 30 June 2024 (£1,690).

You are covered by the energy price cap if you pay for your electricity and gas by either:

standard credit (payment made when you get your electricity and gas bill)
Direct Debit
prepayment meter
Economy 7 (E7) meter

The actual amount you pay will depend on how much energy your household uses, where you live and type of meter you have.

Energy price cap rates 1 July to 30 September

Electricity rates:
If you are on a standard variable tariff (default tariff) and pay for your electricity by Direct Debit, you will pay on average 22.36 pence per kilowatt hour (kWh). The daily standing charge is 60.12 pence per day. This is based on the average across England, Scotland and Wales and includes VAT.

Gas rates:
If you are on a standard variable tariff (default tariff) and pay for your gas by Direct Debit, you will pay on average 5.48 pence per kilowatt hour (kWh). The daily standard charge is 31.41 pence per day. This is based on the average across England, Scotland and Wales and includes VAT.

29/06/2024

BRUTAL ASSAULT ON LOCAL WOMAN
Police Investigation underway

You will likely have read about a shocking incident at the Calder last week, where a local woman was subjected to an unprovoked attack by a gang of feral, vile youths, predominantly girls. We’re absolutely disgusted that this could happen in Blantyre and posting further here to raise awareness.

Melanie Cuthbertson (52) was punched and stamped on the head as she lay sunbathing next to a waterfall and was seriously injured.

She told the story in her own words posting on Telegraph as did family members, with the National press now picking up on the brutal assault. This article highlights the story further to help ensure those youths who did this, do NOT get away with it and fully understand the seriousness of their actions. This could be perceived as an attempted murder.

Firstly, we hope Melanie is recovering well and hope both the physical and mental scars from this horrific incident are starting to heal. This is NOT what Blantyre is like and we reach out to Melanie and her family to help in any way to help.

Melanie was enjoying an afternoon at the Calder on Monday 24th June. If you recall, that was a warm day at the start of last week and she had been wild swimming with friends that afternoon. As her friends left, Melanie stayed on to enjoy the warm afternoon. But, between 5pm and 6pm, as she sunbathed at the Milheugh Falls alone, she was suddenly set about by a teenage boy stomping on her face in a sickening unprovoked attack.

What followed next was violent, brutal and evil.

A group of around 9 teenage girls, perhaps around 15-17 years old or so, then joined in the prolonged, deliberate attack.

Posting on Blantyre Telegraph last week, Melanie told us, “It’s a beautiful area and my favourite place to go for a swim so I just wanted to hang around and enjoy the sunshine.

“I noticed some youths earlier and some of them seemed drunk, but they were a distance away from me so I hadn’t really paid them any attention and we had no interaction whatsoever.”

“I had pitched a little pop-up tent by the water and was lying on it relaxing when I suddenly opened my eyes and noticed some of this gang had congregated around me.”

Before she could react, they pounced on her and started to pound blows down on her head.

She continued: “The boy was wild-eyed and definitely the ring leader. They were all hitting me but he was directly over me and punching and stamping on my head. I was terrified. I was in fear for my life because I didn’t know when they were going to stop.”

Melanie doesn’t remember what happened next as she passed out from the force of the blows and became unconscious. When Melanie came to, two young girls were crouched by her side and asked her if she was okay. She believes they contacted emergency services for help.

Police then arrived and took statements from a couple of witnesses who observed the attack from a distance and gave descriptions of the gang who by then had run off. Melanie received head injuries and was taken to hospital.

Melanie took up wild swimming with friends to help with anxiety issues and has been left in a bad place following this terrifying attack, unsure if she’ll ever return to her favourite outdoor place.

It’s our understanding a concentrated effort is being made by Police to trace these individuals responsible including the checking of local CCTV on the approaches to the Calder. Parents of these individuals must have an inclination of what happened or with whom their children were with that day. The group of girls with one lone male must surely be known to parents of these youths.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 6.30pm on Monday, 24 June, we received a report of an assault on a woman at Calderfalls, Blantyre. The 52-year-old woman was taken to Hairmyres Hospital for treatment. Enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible.”

We hope sincerely these were not Blantyre kids, but these cowardly idiots who think they can attack innocent people in broad daylight, need swiftly caught and punished.

We hope you're ok Melanie.

28/06/2024

BLANTYRE MOTHER & DAUGHTER
Champions!

Here’s a wonderful story which should be celebrated! Local mum and daughter duo, Tyler & Kristen Meechan achieved World Championship titles at the 2024 World ITF Taekwondo Championships in Edinburgh last weekend!

The championships held on Sunday 23rd June, saw athletes from all over the world attend and they faced some tough competition.

Tyler Meechan (10) from Blantyre came home as 10-13 World Champion for sparring, vice World Champion for Patterns only just missing out on top spot. Tyler entered team patterns alongside two of her close friends Conor Ewing and Mark Smith and again got to the final winning the vice world champion spot and finally Tyler took bronze in the Team Sparring event alongside her friends Maria DeBrito and Hei Yee Wong.

Mum of Tyler – Kristen who runs some of the local clubs in Blantyre and Cambuslang took part in the World Championships alongside some of her students who train under Mrs Meechan UKTC Taekwondo, this is Kristen aka Mrs Meechan’s last big championships as an adult before moving to the veteran division with taking that top spot her priority. Mrs Meechan took the World Champion title for 18-34 Female 2nd Degree Patterns and to come of the mat and see her students cheer her on was something she’ll never forget!

Absolutely incredible achievements! We hope you’ll join us in congratulating this talented family who are surely destined for continued success.

27/06/2024

VISITING THE BARNHILL TAVERN
Soft launch success

We were delighted to be amongst many dozens of excited local people invited along to the 'soft launch' of the Barnhill Tavern, Blantyre.

Many people had the opportunity last night, Wednesday 26th June 2024 to see the interior and finishings inside the newly renovated public house on Bardykes Road, for the very first time.

A fantastic evening in good company, which turned into a few more ‘refreshments’ than planned! The ‘soft launch’ evening, one of two planned this week was an opportunity for owners and staff to ‘find their feet’ in their new environment and of course to start letting people see what an amazing transformation has taken place.

Those familiar with this pub in previous decades, will be surprised (as we were!) at how large the customer areas are now and how different everything is. It was wonderful to chat to customers and staff and hear all the positive feedback.

Both inside and outdoor spaces are absolutely stunning. A high quality of finishes throughout as we’ve now come to expect from the Carrigan family. May we take this opportunity to thank them on behalf of everybody visiting last night for their kind hospitality.

We’ve deliberately held back from showing other interior photos and describing things in too much detail! There are several separate areas not shown in this picture, including snug, toilets, outdoor and fireplace areas which you simply MUST see for yourself!

To see how beautiful, this traditional, warm and welcoming pub is …the Barnhill Tavern opens to all from Monday 1st July at midday.

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Videos

BLACKBIRD MIMICS SIRENS High Blantyre Residents beside High Blantyre's Public park have been left amused for a third year in a row, as the "Police Bird" is back! We posted about this a few years ago. Each summer since 2022, a rather clever blackbird has been mimicking emergency services and has learned how to duplicate the sounds of a police siren, following up by an ambulance siren! It's heard frequently. We've managed to record the noise the bird is making on this short clip. Only in Blantyre!

ST BLANES PRIMARY SCHOOL VISIT No Scotland, no Party Pupils and staff at St Blane’s Primary School, Blantyre were lucky this week to have a visit from Nick Morgan! Nick is a musician and was performing his song called “No Scotland, no Party” . He is hoping this might be adopted by the Tartan Army in Germany during the Euros . As you can see the kids loved it!

FESTIVE FUN AT BARDYKES, BLANTYRE Children's Christmas event Spaces are almost full at Bardykes Christmas Parties with just a few places left next Saturday. Join in the festive fun this Christmas at Bardykes, Blantyre! This year featuring: Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree 🎄 Meeting Santa Sandy MBE by the Fire 🔥 Making a Christmas Craft to take home Dancing in a real Snow Storm ⛄️ Christmas Party 🎉 Special Gift from Santa 🎁 Meet some of the animals too! A Bardykes spokesperson added, “All our events are for small groups and will be mostly outdoors so we suggest waterproofs, layers and sensible footwear. All of the activities are planned for children aged 2-8 years, however all ages and siblings are welcome.” Each event will last approximately 90 minutes and cost £15 for each child & £8 for each adult. Please note, babies in slings are welcome and are complimentary, babies walking require a ticket. Slings preferred as ground can be difficult for buggies at this time of year. “ Booking necessary: https://bardykes.co.uk/christmas Posted with permission

DANIEL'S NEXT CHAPTER Brave man leaves hospital Tonight we’re posting a most heartwarming, touching story about local man Daniel Dixon. Some readers may remember way back in September 2020, during the height of the Covid pandemic, local 17 year old lad Daniel Dixon was knocked off his bike sustaining life threatening injuries. Daniel has been immensely brave, patient and it’s safe to say, he’s had a tremendous fight. He’s gone through numerous operations and was extremely unwell on several occasions. This week, his delighted mother Debbie shared a very special update with us. After 3 long years, on Wednesday there, now 20 years old....he finally left Hairmyres Hospital. Caring staff, moved by Daniel’s story and getting to know him and his family well, marked his departure by forming a beautiful, moving guard of honour. Clapping as Daniel made his way out the corridors, the scene captured perfectly all the hearts he’s touched whilst been there. His story moves on to the next positive chapter. Debbie added, “Daniel moves to a brand new rehab unit (The Briar Unit) in Stonehouse. This state of the art rehab unit is for brain injuries and it goes without saying, he will receive the every best of care. An incredible opportunity for him and our family.” This inspiring young man has been through so much, as has his family and we wish them all the very best for the future. (Debbie, if you want to get back in touch with us, we’ll arrange a Christmas present for Daniel courtesy of our Simm Endeavour Funding.)

SCOTLANDS PEOPLE 2023 Nominations now open BBC Scotland is seeking nominations for ‘Scotland’s People 2023’ with Jackie Bird Do you know an incredible person who’s gone that extra mile to help others in your community? Someone who has an inspirational story of kindness and caring? An unsung hero who deserves recognition and thanks for the amazing work they do? Somebody giving up their time just to help or look after others? Then please get in touch now to nominate them for Scotland’s People 2023. This short video explains more. All you have to do is click on the link below. http://bbc.co.uk/scotlandspeople

BOTHWELL BLANTYRE & UDDINGSTON Local Nature Reserve A new short film by South Lanarkshire Council about the Bothwell, Blantyre & Uddingston local Nature Reserve. A fabulous beauty spot right on our doorsteps, teaming with wildlife, natural wonder, and lending itself greatly to outdoor activities.

CAREERS IN THE TECH INDUSTRY Helping Pupils make the right choice Frank McKay, formerly of High Blantyre and who now lives in the U.S has created this excellent video to help secondary pupils embark on a career of computing science. Frank, a former John Ogilvie pupil, has enjoyed tremendous success at the top of the tech industry. He has one of the biggest jobs in the technology industry: the Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain and Procurement at Jabil, Inc., one of the biggest electronics manufacturers in the world. Everyone reading this will almost certainly own multiple products that Frank and his team have had a handing in making and bringing to global markets. His excellent video aims to help young people choose the right school subjects to assist a later career in tech. This video, put together by Frank and his team including Shannon Poff, illustrates many reasons why studying Computer Science at school can lead to interesting and fulfilling careers. Frank points out that tech industry careers are not all about writing code (although that is one important career option) – studying Computer Science teaches you the language of tech. The video shows very well that tech industry is home to exciting and fun, collaborative projects, that you can have the opportunity to travel the world and that all sorts of people, young and not so young, can work together to have global impact. Please share this video with young people you know, especially school pupils thinking about their subject options for National 5 and Higher Grade exams. With thanks to Stephen Speirs for this story.

Thank you Lewis Capaldi

THANK YOU LEWIS CAPALDI Making Erin's Birthday wish come true We reported yesterday about how local teenager, Erin Brown hoped her favourite musician Lewis Capaldi would wish her a happy birthday. Erin, who is 15 years old has cerebral palsy and her family were trying hard to get Lewis to send her a special birthday message. Some media outlets sprang into action, including ourselves reaching out to Lewis online. Our article yesterday was shared over 1,000 times and ended up in front of over 100,000 people and thankfully DID make its way directly to Lewis himself!! Today, Lewis recorded a short video and left a reply on Telegraph’s Twitter feed, especially for Erin! Needless to say, Erin was absolutely delighted. Her mother Lisa told us, ” I can’t thank you enough! Everyone on here has been incredible! You all made a wee girls dream come true “ Thank you Lewis. You sir are an absolute gent! Well done! The recorded message is below.

REMEMBERING THOSE WHO PASSED Looking back on 2022 As 2022 soon draws to a close, we look back today on a difficult year and remember those local folk no longer here. At this time of year especially, thoughts turn to those family and friends who have passed during 2022 and now remembered by all the community here in this short film. Today, we honour all Blantyre people, sadly no longer with us. We remember everybody featured here with sadness, love and fondness and of course anybody we’ve unintentionally missed. Please share with family and friends.

TERMINAL ONE AGM Jessie-Lou Harvie (11) We’ve been showing little snippets of the talented local youngsters who took part in tonight’s Terminal One AGM at Blantyre Miners Welfare. Amongst a stunning array of musical talent tonight, was 11 year old Jessie Lou Harvie, who commanded the Welfare stage most competently. Oh, to be able to sing like THIS! An incredibly gifted youngster with a voice and name we should all be looking out for in future. 🟢 >>> Unlock all of Blantyre's News & Alerts and help local good causes. Instant Access to our Supporter's Group here: https://www.facebook.com/becomesupporter/blantyretelegraph/

SCHOOL MENUS 2022/2023 South Lanarkshire South Lanarkshire Council’s new primary school menu goes live on Monday 29 August. This years meals encourage children to eat more fruit and veg as well as reduced sugar intake. Meals have been chosen deliberately which are popular with pupils with something for everyone. As well as main meal, it includes a selection of either starter or dessert depending on what day it is. All meals include a side salad and fresh fruit. For sneak preview and more details see here https://orlo.uk/UUD1U

CALDERSIDE ACADEMY PROM Takes place after all Here’s a story which had a lovely ending. When Calderside Academy told their senior pupils there would be no prom party this year, you can imagine their disappointment. It didn’t seem fair when other High Schools in the area were allowing their proms to go ahead. Several difficult years of schooling ending with no party with friends. It didn’t seem right. One local mum however, decided to do something about it. Gail Duncan organised a prom party for the youngsters, away from the school. With kind help from Blantyre Vics for a venue and other businesses helping out, the party was back ON! Back in January, we donated our Supporters Group subscriptions to ensure the Calderside School Prom could progress. This is the sort of thing that our Supporters Group can REALLY help with, covering some of their necessary hidden costs. Thank you also goes out to Mark Burns, Betty McConnell and staff at Castle Park, Mo Razzaq, David Agnew, Lynsey Mclaren and Denise Dell. Also a round of applause to the parent helpers and the pupils themselves. As you can see, the youngsters had a marvellous time this week as their prom took place in the Vics Function Hall! Beautiful local lassie, Leah Hunter was crowned Prom Queen and the handsome Prom King, Jamie Mitchell. Gail told us today, “It was a fantastic night every single kid had an amazing night and not one person stepped out of line. Honestly the best night ever and every single young person was on the dance floor.” Thank you sincerely to all for your continued support and to all other individuals and organisations who helped make this possible. If YOU would like to help make a difference to local Blantyre good causes and appreciate the free news Blantyre Telegraph provides on a daily basis, help support the local community by subscribing to our Supporters Group here: https://www.facebook.com/271133402907727/support/ it costs just £1.79 for a whole month, we retain nothing

EK EXPRESSWAY NEAR MISS Wrong direction on sliproad The subject of drivers travelling in the WRONG direction on the A725 East Kilbride Expressway once again returns after a concerning incident this week. Following extensive campaigns in previous years by readers of Blantyre Telegraph, many improvements were made to the sliproads by authorities to improve the safety of drivers and lessen risk of accidents. However, on Sunday 27th March around 11am, a driver was observed on dashcam footage driving up the wrong direction of the High Blantyre Sliproad, before doing a dangerous 3 point turn to correct the direction once on the Expressway itself. It's thanks to the vigilance of the other drivers who slowed down at the time, that an accident was avoided.

HOW TO USE A DEFIBRILLATOR 2 Minute Video Guidance With life saving defibrillators now installed in several places in Blantyre and indeed on the rise in Lanarkshire, we thought this short 2 minute video explaining how they work would be useful. This is what to expect when using the equipment. Please share and take just 2 minutes to watch. This guidance contains information which could save the lives of family and friends.

STORM MALIK 80mph Gusts Gusts of wind up to 80mph are impacting some parts of the UK this weekend, as Storm Malik sweeps in. Yellow weather warnings are in place across Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England for most of Saturday. Blantyre hasn't escaped storm damage with a few damaged trees and a couple of trampolines that took off. Like this one earlier in Heathcliffe Avenue. Winds are expected to be fairly strong throughout Saturday lessening by this evening. However, wind will pick up again tomorrow afternoon and a breezy Monday and Tuesday is in store. Video Courtesy: M Campaigne

Clyde Walkway Flooded

CLYDE WALKWAY FLOODED River burst its banks People are urged to take care if walking alongside the River Clyde. The recent heavy rainfall has caused widespread flooding and the River Clyde at Blantyre has burst its banks. There is little definition left between the edge of the path and the deeper, fast flowing river. People out walking with dogs should be especially mindful of this and ideally keep dogs on the lead for now, avoiding the area if possible. Video Courtesy: C Stevenson.

SCUMBAGS THIEVES

SCUMBAG THIEVES Target Broompark Road, Blantyre The lowest of the low. Scumbags! Two thieves were spotted last night trying all the cars on Broompark Road, Blantyre. The two men, were observed and filmed around 5.15am in the early hours of this morning Wednesday 27th October 2021 trying to gain access to every vehicle, trying handles on the entire length of the street. One male resident went out to scare them off but they returned to the street again around 20 minutes later and continued to try cars further up. Both these lowlifes were mostly in dark clothing and both wearing backpacks and seemed unaware that they were being filmed. Where they walked under street lights, the camera got much better, clearer shots, which residents passed on to police. A reminder as nights draw in, please make sure all your cars and vans are locked and all valuables are removed from inside.

DEADPOOL SPOTTED AGAIN Glasgow Road, Blantyre Nothing to see here. Just 'Deadpool' out for a brisk Saturday walk by the Old Original Bar. Courtesy: Laura McQ

SCHOOLS OUT FOR SUMMER! P7 Pupils say farewell Pupils throughout Lanarkshire are celebrating the end of term and the arrival of School holidays! Yesterday, as P7 pupils left High Blantyre Primary, they were seen out their school for the last time by a piper! It was a touching moment for pupils, teachers and of course spectating parents. After the most strangest of years, we hope school children throughout Blantyre have a wonderful summer holiday. Video Credit: Lindsey Brown

Homeless, by Drew Semple

'HOMELESS' - A NEW SONG by Drew Semple We bring the weekend to a close showcasing some local talent and on a serious note. Local musician, Drew Semple who owns Candelina Yankee Store on Stonefield Road, has written and performed his new song, “Homeless” which features this moving and touching video. He’s kindly permitted it to be shown here. Chances are you’re at home reading this and so all the more poignant, especially just after mental health week, that we all spare a thought for people throughout Scotland who currently live from day to day with no home. Drew’s song and this video by Baby Grand Productions in Glasgow, will certainly make you appreciate the roof over your head and perhaps, like us this evening, reflect on what can be done to help.