By April 1977, the pupils and teachers of Blantyre High School could celebrate knowing their fundraising efforts had now accomplished their goal of raising enough to buy a new van.
They had been raising money for 2 years. Assistant Head teacher, Bob Pirie (far left) accepted the brand new Transit Van that month from Mr George Haston of James A Laidlaw & Sons, Airdrie.
Pupils of Blantyre High are pictured giving the van a first try out. The van was to be used for educational trips and get the kids out and about beyond the school. About £3,000 was raised by pupils and teachers through various fundraising means including sponsored film nights and walks. The remaining £1,700 was provided by a loan from Strathclyde Regional Council.
Although not the best quality photo, hopefully more people can be recognised.
On Social Media, the following comments were received on Facebook:
Fraser Cosh Had a brilliant few days with the Modern Languages Department doing a Youth Hostelling holiday around Scotland in the school minibus. Great memories!
Joan McLaughlin Fraser Cosh we had a few trips away, Pitlochry,Aviemore and Rowardennan. Definitely great memories of our youth hosteling days .
Margaret Farmer Jan Taylor Purkis is second from the right
Iain McAlpine Great to see Mr Pirie. One of my favourite teachers
Robert Liddell Iain McAlpineyes Bob was one of the best unfortunately no longer with us and suffered with Alzheimer’s RIP Bob.
Alan Baird it was a mini bus , it had bench seats up each side (very uncomfortable on yer backside) i went down to hull in it when going the school trip to holland in 1977.
Arlene McWilliam Green Ah the school minibus. We went to all the badminton matches in it. Also Mr Macfarlane the physics teacher, took us, in the higher physics class, to visit Hunterston Power Station and also trips to the NEL. Not a seat belt in sight.
Arlene Campbell Many trips in this to play hockey
Dee Williamson I remember doing a sponsored walk to raise money for it