Off To The Ballet.

The Playhouse in Edinburgh was the venue for Scottish Ballet last Saturday night. I have to admit it wasn't what I had imagined it was going to be. The first set was accompanied by music from Radiohead, the second set had the performers looking like they were naked but the third was spectacular and far too short in duration. I was really getting into it when it was suddenly all over.

I was very surprised at the lack of people in attendance. There were hundreds of unsold seats but at £ 35.00 a brief, could that have been a factor? All in all, thoroughly entertaining and I would advise anyone to go along.

" Doon the Watter "

On a very dull and overcast Thursday evening, I set off from the Crown Plaza Hotel on the "Cruiser" along with around one hundred Chamber of Commerce members from across the city. We passed through Bell's Bridge, came about and cruised down to the Erskine Bridge and back. It was interesting to get a perspective on all the well known landmarks from the middle of the river.

The only shipyards left are that of BAE Systems. It was clearly evident how technology has moved on in that field as we had minutes earlier passed the tall ship
Glenlee and we then cruised past a couple of the latest design of ships moored alongside the hangers. It was interesting to note however, that the basic shape of the hull from both were still very similar.

The "Titan Crane", on the site of John Brown's shipyard in Clydebank was particularly impressive. It was recently opened up as a visitor attraction and I was annoyed at not being able to attend the ceremony due to a prior engagement. The experience of going to the top is spectacular, so I have been told. I will be going up to see for myself.

The event was hosted by Clyde Waterfront and everyone on board had a great time.

What Next !

I found this bag stuck on a bush at my front door. What sort of signal is this sending out ?

Falkirk v Celtic 11 August 2007.

Why is it always pouring with rain at the footy? Falkirk's first home game of the season was against last years champions, Celtic. The "Bairns" got off to a flying start after a magnificent header from Michael Higdon left the Celtic keeper no chance with just five minutes on the clock. It took an own goal by Falkirk's Kenny Milne and then his subsequent dubious sending off in the second half to scupper any hopes of a first home win. Nakamura's peach of a free kick saw Celtic go onto a comfortable 1-4 win.

Billy Riordan Memorial Trust Fund Raising.

Saturday night at the Grosvenor Hilton, Glasgow proved to be a winner. Nearly £3,500
was raised for the Billy Riordan Memorial Trust. The money will be spent on upgrading
the clinic at Cape Maclear, Chembe village in Malawi.

My old pal Tom Morton was on hand to get the auction going but to his astonishment, a
surprise lot came up for grabs out of the blue. Yes, you could get your hands on an old
album he made way back in 1978 in collaboration with various notable worthies. Guitarist Graeme Duffin of Wet Wet Wet fame being one of them. One lucky bidder got the cream by bidding £100.00. He is seen here with his signed copy, Graeme and Tom. I bought a load of raffle tickets but my luck just wasn't in. A very enjoyable night was had by all.

Weird Flying Insect.

Anyone who knows me will tell you that gardening is not a hobby of mine. Cutting the grass and hedge is about as far as it goes with me. As a consequence, the back garden is like a jungle for the most part and with loads of strange plants, weeds etc all over
the place it does attract a rich and varied bird and insect population.

I spotted this wee beauty today. I thought it would be more at home in a more tropical
climate as opposed to a back garden in Clydebank. Does anyone know what it is? Is it lost? I must know!

Spectacular End To The Day.

I was working in Ayrshire a few days ago and decided to come back the long way via the coastal route as is was a great day to be out and about.

On leaving Port Glasgow, the cloud formation combined with the height of the sun in the sky produced this spectacular sight.