On Friday 11th February, Strathleven Artizans were pleased to welcome West of Scotland MSP, Stewart Maxwell, together with SNP candidate for Dumbarton Constituency in the coming election, Iain Robertson and his daughter Gail.

There was a gratifying turnout of Artizans in the shape of Susan, Elspeth, Arthur, David, Jim, Lynn and Tommy as well as Paul (King Robert), Jeanette (Lady Mary) and Duncan (Stout Duncan) in full dress.

It was an opportunity for Stewart to renew acquaintance with some of the Artizans as they had met on a couple of occasions at the Parliament in Edinburgh, and bring him up to date with events and activities in the intervening period. It was, however, his first visit to the KRBHC, and it’s fair to say that he seemed well-impressed with what he saw.

Iain had visited the centre before but many of the artefacts and artworks on display were new to him and Gail.

Duncan briefly ran through the history of the group before outlining future plans and Paul spoke of the educational aims and work with local schools. Elspeth told the visitors that schools in other parts of the country were now aware of the Strathleven Artizans and visits had already taken place to schools in Ayrshire, with requests from schools as far away as Aberdeen.

Jim spoke of the connection with Teba in Spain and Elspeth of the planned link with Orleans in France as well as the possibility of working with Scotrail on “Royal Train Journeys” for French and German tourists interested in Scotland’s history.

In a broad ranging discussion Iain spoke of the need to capitalise on West Dumbarton’s august history for the many thousands of tourists who presently drive straight through on their way to Loch Lomond and points north.

It was a most enjoyable visit for all concerned and the Artizans are grateful that Iain and Stewart were able to devote so much time in their very busy schedules to learning more of what we are about.

Tommy Crocket

Quote from Stewart Maxwell.MSP

“It is quite clear to me why the Robert the Bruce Heritage Centre won ‘Best Adopted Station’ in 2010.  The work and the skill which have gone into this centre are tremendous.  I am extremely impressed by the knowledge and enthusiasm of the Strathleven Artizans who have created this excellent educational resource and I was delighted to be able to visit the Centre with Cllr Robertson and meet some of the ‘Artizans’.