2023 Reunion report

Once again another successful evening was had by all.

All feedback has as usual been very positive.

We are always on the look out for 214 boys stories of their time in the company and what impact that had on their lives.

This year we uncovered a non pipeband or football related success in the shape of published playwright and author….. Alexander Robertson.

214 brothers George and Alex Robertson

Alex entertained the assembled ‘old boys’ to his 214 story and how the Gordon Park stage shows sparked something in him. He was hooked on theatre for the rest of his life.

He even managed to sell a few copies of his latest book.

Alex has given me details of his story which will appear here soon where I will put details of how you can purchase his book.

October next year is the Centenary of the formation of the 214th GCBB in 1924.

We have a number of exciting projects that we are actively managing, to help us all celebrate our Centenary year.

So watch this space, details to follow!

2023 Reunion Invites

This years invites have just been sent out by email.

Please reply ASAP to allow us to plan for meal numbers.

If you reply now we wont need to send you an actual postage paid letter.

Help save your Associations funds.

Many thanks

The Secretary

Jim Paterson

I received an email from Jim’s wife thanking us for the Christmas card and letting me know that he passed away on 5th of June 2022.

Just prior to lockdown Jim had discovered the 214 website and was in regular contact, giving me details of his time in the 214. Even though in his eighties he had no problem with modern technology.

Jim at Aberdeen 1954

Jim’s memories can be read here or going to the Memories tab in the menu at the top of this page.

It’s always sad hearing of an ex member passing away, especially at this time of year.

We all send our condolences to Maureen his wife and all the family.

Sheila McMurchie

I’ve just been notified that Stirling McMurchie’s wife Sheila (85), passed away last Sunday 9th October 2022 at home.

Her funeral is to be held on Friday 28th October 2022 – 1.30pm at Dalnottar Crematorium.

She had just returned after a month away in Canada and had attended a Milngavie Bowling Club event the evening before her passing.

I’m sure all Ex Members send their condolences to the family at this sad time.

Hector Russell funeral details

I have been advised that on Wednesday 5th October 2022 at 2.15pm, Hector’s funeral will be held in Cardross Crematorium.

I’m sure those that can attend will be in their usual 214 attire.

Hector when he was reunited with the John MacDougall Gillies Trophy for Amateur Piobaireachd in 2005, which he won in 1961 at the age of 16.

Details & Directions can be found here.

Cardross Crematorium (argyll-bute.gov.uk)

Hector Russell

Yesterday I received the sad news while on holiday that Hector Russell (77) had suddenly passed away on Saturday 24th September 2022.

Hector at the 2019 Ex Members Reunion

I along with a good few were only just talking to him last week at Willie McDonald’s funeral, where he was updating me on an upcoming 214 project.

Hector will be greatly missed by all in the 214BB Ex Members Association, as well as by myself.

Thankfully once Hector got an idea he was like a dog with a bone, constantly badgering Ex Members for information.

This sterling work produced a massive amount of content for the benefit of all, which thankfully is available on this, our website.

Most recently in collaboration with The Kinloch Historical Society, Lewis, in bringing ‘The Pipe Tunes of Pipe Major Alex M MacIver to book form.

Robert Wallace has produced today’s Pipingpress article on Hector’s piping career which can be read here.

I’m sure you all join me in sending our condolences to Marlene his wife and the rest of the family at this sad time.

(Funeral details to be advised.)