A GROUP of campaigners who are fighting for recognition of the former community of Glenbuck have made another significant step forward.

Councillor for the area, Jim Roberts, met three of them at the Bill Shankly Memorial near the site, and he has added his support.

It strikes a blow against the Clan McWullnae, who have cynically dismissed the group and their aims ... ‘it wullnae happen’ or ‘you wullnae make a difference’.

Mr Roberts, who got together with Bill Shankly’s niece, Barbara Alexander and campaigners David Higgins and Sam Purdie, was happy to help.

He said: “It is amazing that, for such a small area, it produced so many top class footballers. It was probably their only way out from the harsh living conditions in the mining community.

“It was also fascinating to be with the former residents and see them pointing out where the school was, and the church or where a relative or friend lived. All they are looking for is recognition in terms of signs or a visitor centre to acknowledge the history and heritage of the area.”

Meanwhile, Mr Purdie has been busy carrying out extensive research with the help of East Ayrshire Council’s operations manager, David McDowall, and Jason Sutcliffe, Team Leader at the Dick Institute, who have supplied him with a copy of the 1911 Census figures — as well as joining the growing wave of support.

Mr McDowall said: “Councillor Roberts has passed me a copy of the strategy for the future recognition of the Glenbuck village and having reviewed this strategy, the long terms ambitions referred to would appear in general to be supported by the council.

“In respect of the signage and support any memorial stone relocation I would suggest that a meeting is held with Sam Purdie and Barbara Alexander and Cllr Roberts, Craig Iles, Development Management Team Leader (opencast, quarries and landfill), myself and Robin Caldow as land owner to discuss matters.”