Early in July 1995 a few people in the village expressed an interest in have some new groups which people could join to share a mutual interest and to meet on a regular basis. It appeared that a garden club, a historical society and a walking club were what people were most interested in. These were all formed in 1995 and are still going strong.
With reference to the hillwalking club, Christine Donaldson attended a keep fit class which Ena Crowe ran, – (Ena’s husband Brian has a wealth of knowledge of most outdoor activities but in particular hillwalking and rock-climbing) and she was keen to assist in the formation of a club. This was put to Norma Murray who was gathering information re the new groups and Brian was approached and agreed to lend his expertise.
A notice was placed in the village and 11 people turned up at the very first meeting to hear what was involved.
It was decided to have 2 tester walks to see if people were going to like walking as a group and on 30th July 1995 Brian Crowe led around 20 people on the walk Glen Dye/Clachnaben – word had obviously spread ! Conditions were warm and sunny and one person actually carried a tripod and camera the whole way round – needless to say he has never been seen out walking with us since! Around 26 took part in the next walk in August which was to Loch Ordie – this time there was the choice of a low level walk and a harder walk trudging through heather etc. Again a beautiful day, which was good since for these 2 walks, almost everyone being totally inexperienced, had on borrowed boots etc!
One or two never made a return visit to the club but most went on to join and were members for many years. Only two members still remain from the outset, namely Christine and Davie Donaldson, who had previously held the position of Secretary and Press Secretary.
During these 15 years we have had 5 Presidents – Ena Crowe held the position for quite a few years, followed by Keith Galloway for 3 years, then Stephen Hargraves for 4 years, followed by Peter Hargraves for 2 years and now David Cargill who is currently serving his 1st year.
The first secretary of the club was Nan Wishart who after 2-3 walks decided she was not able to carry out her duties as they were moving house, Christine Donaldson then took over and remained until Caroline Donald agreed to carry out the duties and who has done so ever since.
The first treasurer was Frank Moir(now deceased) who held the post for 3 years and although being late in life for taking up walking, like many, thoroughly enjoyed his days in the hills. He was then followed by David Miller, then Dave Dorward and Lorna Valentine with the position currently held by David Miller in his second stint.
Although Brian Crowe does not attend walks or meetings now, in the past he spent quite a lot of time with those who wanted to learn map reading, compass work etc and on one occasion during a winter walk, everyone took part in the art of building snow holes.
At present there are 37 members