3 minute read
The Braes book of memories
DOwN MEMORY LANE – LEGACY OF THE BRAES
Iain Ferguson After 16 years the Spean Bridge/Roy Bridge/ Achnacarry Community Newspaper ‘The Braes’ has been put on ‘pause’ as the editorial team felt that it was time for them to hand over the reins, but no one came forward to pick them up.
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Having not been published for around seven months, the opportunity is still there to put it ‘back on the shelves’, but while the monthly publication has gone, memories of it are quite literally about to be put back into print.
Author and a regular contributor, Richard Sidgwick (pictured left), with the support of the committee, is producing a book, Down Memory Lane, featuring articles of the same name which were published monthly over the years in The Braes. Richard himself conducted interviews with older members of the community, providing a rich, fascinating tapestry of life in the Braes of Lochaber, looking back more than 100 years to form a unique collection of memories from a different era.
Often highlighted in these were the tremendous individual spirits despite social status imposed on them at the time, the hard upbringings experienced by many children, poor conditions, lack of money and transport, but above all, no lack of love. People were often poor, but also resilient and hardworking and content with remarkable tales to tell.
News of the publication was announced by retiring Editor Margaret Sargent at a celebration get together for the Braes team and contributors which was held in the Old Pines restaurant when Covid regulations allowed.
She said: “Richard has generously gifted his writings to The Braes, bringing together all of the articles into book form.
“This will be a most special legacy to be enjoyed and treasured at home and abroad. The team express their warmest, most sincere thanks to Richard for his generosity with grateful thanks also to Sharon Donald for compiling the book”.
‘Down Memory Lane in the Braes of Lochaber’ should be available now at many local outlets outlets, including the Highland Bookshop priced at £10.00, with all proceeds going to local good causes.
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