Memories of Prestwick

Prestwick - Memories

Bob Little sends us his memories:

"Like Dave Stewart and Jim Burleigh, I have memories from my years in Prestwick, between 1953 (age 5) until 1971 when I married and moved away.
Like Dave I was also a Cub and a Scout, but with the 14th Ayrshire Troop. We met in Glenburn School and we nearly always travelled home via Johnny Hare's chip shop. Margaret Foulds was the long serving Akela and her brother Ian was the Scout Troop Leader. Their father, Matthew held the position of (I think) District Commissioner. The 14th was affiliated to St Nicholas Church where the Rev Dunn was the minister. I myself was baptised there, as were my own children, Angela and Greg, many years later.

My grandfather owned the Golf Inn during the WW2 years until he retired in the mid 50s. I always call in at the Golf Inn when we visit (out of loyalty).

I was a message boy for Billy (ex-Provost) Moir's grocer shop - now the kilt and tartan shop.
I still remember the large butter slabs on the counter, being cut to size with wire and being 'patted' into the customers' preferred shapes/sizes. Also the numerous sacks of dog biscuits on the shop floor and the many wondrous shop smells.

I remember train loads (yes, train loads) of holiday makers embarking at the railway station, especially at Glasgow and Paisley 'Fair' time. This led to the beach being covered with holiday makers and the promenade lined from end to end with strollers.
I also remember the Bathing Lake and attending the High School 'inter-house' swimming galas. There were the 'bathing beauty' competitions where local and non-local girls vied for the first prize.
There was the 'spot the Daily Express/Daily Record man' on the shore front, carrying a copy of the paper and awarding cash when he was identified.

Ever summer each school child received a Book with vouchers for: a free ice cream from a local cafe; a free donkey ride on the sands; a free cinema entry to the Broadway or the Bug Hut; a free swim in the Bathing Lake (and maybe something else!).
Woolies was a great store, with dozens of toy (metal not plastic) soldiers on display.

At the High School - 'Spotters Hill' where all the plane fanatics logged the comings and goings - the Tuck Shop where you bought (old) penny chews; midget gems; liquorice straps/laces/catherine wheels - the outside toilets/bike sheds - school dinners in the domestic science room.

That's more than enough for now!"

Thanks, Bob. Sounds like not too bad a life !!!!
Bob can be contacted at bob.little@bbg.co.uk.