Three Blantyre Boy Scouts had an unexpected dip in the River Clyde on the night of Monday 13th July 1931, and it was fortunate that their escapade did not end in tragedy.
During the summer holidays and warmer weather, the youths had conceived the idea of building a canoe, which was about 10 feet long and was built of spare wood and covered with a canvas. When they had it completed, it was taken to a secluded part of the river in the vicinity of the Priory Colliery. (behind Coatshill)
Whilst still light, about eight o’clock at night they decided to test it in the water. First one went out in the canoe and then another again with another boy accompanying him, and then as everything appeared to be in order and shipshape, the third youth also joined his companions. Together they sailed up and down the river for some minutes. When still in deep water the frail craft suddenly collapsed under the weight of them, and all three boys were thrown into the river. Fortunately all of them could swim and they reached the Blantyre bank in safety. Another companion seeing the canoe being carried down the river plunged in and brought it to the bank. Thankfully, none of the boys suffered any ill effects.
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Henry Hambley Lucky boys. Are any of them still alive ? It would be nice to hear of their recollections of their “Titanic” voyage.
Jean McIntosh Very scary, the thought if it.