FUSE FM IN THE TOON!

On Saturday 1st December, fUSe FM began a two-week broadcast in Ballymoney, operating from the Orange Hall in High Street. The Ulster Scots Agency sponsored radio station proved to be a massive hit in the Toon with a record response from listeners. Although the temporary station did not have a telephone facility, listeners were able to text the presenters and by the end of the 14 day period, the total number of texts recieved amounted to just less than 3000! Although the organisers were hopeful that the station would be a success, no one could have predicted the resounding success it became.

The shows ran daily from 8:ooam until past midnight and each show was staffed by local volunteers from the Ulster Scots community. Pre recorded interviews featuring Ulster Scots speaker Marbeth Templeton and the pupils of Armoy and Ballymoney Model primary schools were aired as well as an interview with local author and historian, Robert Thompson. Live interviews of local bands and band members were also aired and special guests included Charlie Reynolds, Charlie Gillen, Darwin Templeton (News Letter editor), Dr Ian Adamson (former Lord Mayor of Belfast, author and historian), Wilson Burgess (poet & author), George Patton and Michael McCullough (Ulster Scots Agency) and Mark Thompson (Chairman of Boord o tha Ulster Scotch).

As well as conventional music, listeners were treated to Scots and traditional music with a Country Show hosted by Jim Doherty. Prior to the commencement of the fortnight's airtime, presenter Anne Smyth said we would be unearthing and promoting local talent in an interview with Kist o Wurds and this was realised both in the promotion of local singer Alistair Coyles and during the country show.

A huge thanks must go to Anne, Noel Anderson, Louise Watson, Peter Baird, Jimmy The Beard Henry and Adam Stubbles Mark for the deication they gave to bringing such enjoyment to the folk o the Toon. We are also very very grateful to Andy Mattison for his exceptional zeal in travelling from his Co Down home daily to take part in the project.

Businesses played the station in shops, bars, the local hotel and throughout the town and hinterland. A charity drive launched by the fUSe team realised a total of £1100 in only ten days. This sum was divided equally between Click Sargant and the NI Children's Hospice at a cheque presentation on the last day of broadcasting.

Secretary of the local Kingdom of Dalriada Ulster Scots Society, Gary Blair, said: "The response to the project has taken us all by surprise. During the last week a huge number of texts were seeking us to bring a full time Ulster Scots radio station to the Toon and the greater North Antrim area. Although this seems like an uphill struggle, we believe the demand is there and, to avoid discriminating against the Ulster Scots community, I think such a licence should be granted as soon as possible. The momentum is there, the will is there and the support base is there. I hope those in a position to grant a licence will do so. Ballymoney has largely been neglected by big name stores and has been squeezed between Ballymena and Coleraine but something like this could benefit local trade, tourism and, above all, give hope to the local community who have been the salt of the earth in terms of supporting the project. We intend to return that support by doing everything we can to bring a cultural station to the Toon and north Antrim".

The good people of Ballymoney did us all proud and the presenters named above did the Toon proud. On behalf of the Ulster Scots community, we thank you all.

Hear the Wizard!

One man who knows his Ulster Scotch is North Antrim's own Charlie "The Wizard" Gillen from Dervock. If you missed him having a chat on Radio Ulster's Kist O Wurds show, why not go on Radio Ulster online and click on the Kist O Wurds to hear him talking to Will McAvoy from Co Down. The yarn is not only highly entertaining but also raises some very important points about the Ullans leid and the issue of regional variations. Tune in!

Plantation? Whit Plantin R Ye Oan Aboot?

A'm sure A'm no tha only yin amang iz that heared certain revisionists, political mooths an tha lake puttin it ower that iz Ulster Scotch landed here in a boat an tuk ower lan, hooses an aa. Aye deed, we hae bin writ aff as invaders an aa soarts. The Toon Rhymer begs tae differ a bit frae that wye o thinkin.

It's Wur Hame An Aye Wus

They keep taakin aboot a plantation.

They say wae invaded this lan.

They think we're misguided Irishmen!

Wie a fool loyalty tae an oul Rid Haun.

Revisionists, historians an ither yins

Wud mak iz feel that wae dinnae belang

But gie mae a minute tae A show ye

That they cudnae bae oany mair wrang.

Wur Dalriada forefaithers leeved here

As they had done fer hunners o years

They wur persecuted but kept oan gan

Tho it cost them aa sufferin an tears.

Eventually they set sail ower tha water

(They wur caa'd Scots in thar new plaice)

Tha wye they wur forced oot o Ulster

Wus naethin shoart o a disgrace!

They settled in the Lallans,

An wrocht hard in thur new domain

Aaways hopin, prayin an thinkin

That they micht see oul Ulster again.

Centuries later King James tuk a notion

O settin Ulster bak oan hur feet

An sae he sent the Lallan fowk hame again

Determined this time they'd niver bae beat.

Sae its no a 'plantation', it's a hamecomin

Bak tae tha plaice whur we leeved afore

An this time we're no gan tae lee it

As they did in bygone days o yore.

Here's a toast tae the Ulster Scotch!

A'm gye proud tae bae here the day

Fer whither the rest lake it ir lump it,

It's in Ulster that we're gan tae stay!!

FUSE FM COMES TO THE TOON!

The acclaimed FUSE FM radio station will be coming to Ballymoney in the first two weeks of December! For the first time ever, Ballymoney will have it's very own cultural radio station based in the town. The hosts will be the Kingdom of Dalriada & Stranocum Ulster Scots groups and it is hoped that local musical and literary talents will be broadcast to the people of the Borough through this important medium.

Details of the programme will be posted on the blog nearer the time so keep an eye out for titles featuring FUSE FM.

Dunaghy Flute Band Centenary

DUNAGHY FLUTE BAND

1907 CENTENARY 2007

On Friday 2nd November 2007, Dunaghy Flute Band will present an Evening of Ulster Scots Music & Entertainment in Ballymoney Town Hall.

Attending will be two of Northern Ireland's top flute bands in the form of Mourne Young Defenders from Kilkeel and Ballykeel Loyal Sons of Ulster from Ballymena. Both bands are renowned for their musical ability. Also in attendance will be another of Northern Ireland's finest ensembles, Dunloy Accordian Orchestra. Finally, storyteller and rhymer Charlie Gillen and musician Elaine Allen will provide a more traditional Ulster Scots feel to the evening. Compering the event will be Coleraine comedian and actor, Robert Ramsey.

A spokesman for the band said he was looking forward to the evening and felt that there was an excellent variety of acts. He said: "It would be hard for us to better the performers who will be attending the Town Hall on the 2nd. Bands like the Mourne, Ballykeel and Dunloy are at the top of their categories whilst Charlie Gillen, Elaine Allen and Robert Ramsey are proven entertainers in their own right".

Doors open at 7pm with a start time of 8pm on the night and the band spokeperson explained that tickets are on sale. "While people can simply come along on the night, we are encouraging everyone to purchase a ticket beforehand from either a band member or by contacting the following mobile numbers: 07730609282 or 07852162816".

Get Writing!

The Ulster Scots language has survived down through the centuries as a largely oral tradition. The Ulster Scots speaking communities preserved the language by speaking it on a daily basis, telling stories and through the medium of poetry. Indeed, we are more than fortunate to have Charlie Gillen and Charlie Reynolds amongst us. They have been engaged in preserving and promoting the Ullans language long before it secured legal status as a language.

Perhaps you would like to be amongst the growing numbers of Ulster Scots writers who are committing poetry and stories to print? You may be apprehensive about doing so because you would not feel confident about writing in Ulster Scots. If so, stop right there!

We would love to have you join us as a writer and we would love to read your work. No one will be judged by us and no one will be made to feel patronised. If you need a wee jag of confidence, look out a copy of the Hamely Tongue by James Fenton and take your text from it. Let NOTHING put you off from writing in Ulster Scots. So, if you do commit to paper, send it to my email address and everyone who does will be guaranteed a reply devoid of judgement.

So get writing!

Attention Ulster Scots!

The University of Ulster Institution of Ulster Scots Studies will be holding a six week course based at Northern Regional College (Ballymoney Tech) beginning on Monday 22nd October 2007. The classes will run from 7:00 - 9:oopm and everyone is welcome to attend.

The programme, supported by the Ulster Scots Agency, will run as follows:

Week 1
Ulster and Scotland from earliest times to 1700

Week 2
Ulster and Scotland 1700-2000

Week 3
The Language and Literature of the Ulster Scots

Week 4
The Language and Literature of the Ulster Scots

Week 5
The Music and Song of the Ulster Scots

Week 6
The Legacy of the Ulster Scots

This is a golden opportunity for us, the people from Dalriada, to learn more about our rich history and culture. For too long our presence, language and contribution to society in general has been ignored or suppressed. The Ulster Scots Journal & News would encourage EVERYONE to attend the series of classes, not just to learn, but also to contribute to the talks and debates that will flow from the structured series in the programme above. Having spoken to writer, lecturer and consultant, Alister McReynolds, I can confirm that attendees may enrol on the first night though to be sure of a place, contact Sharon Adams, The Continuing Professional Development Unit on 028 9036 6680 or email the Unit at cpdu@ulster.ac.uk where you will find assistance and advice. The course will cost £30:00 or £15:00 for the entire six week course. As we would say up here in Dalriada, Whur else wud ye get it; sure it's naethin but a fiver a nicht!

Forgotten Heroes & Heroines

All too often, society overlooks those who were the real heroes and heroines of the past. We are far too inclined to regale those who became famous and forget all about those who did greater things but in a humble manner. One example of this is the Bell family.

Matthew Bell was born in Kirkconnell, Nithsdale in Dumfriesshire, Scotland. He moved from his native land to Ulster settling in Ballymoney where he had two sons, John and Matthew. Although there is little known about Matthew jnr, John was born somewhere between 1678 and 1679 and eventually sailed for America around 1719.

After about a year in America, John travelled back to Ballymoney to collect his wife Elizabeth and their two daughters. As they sailed back to America, a remarkable incident took place which should have guaranteed Elizabeth's place in history. It was 1772 and the ship the Bell family were aboard was typical of the time and for many it was a maritime morgue, known commonly as a "coffin ship" given the number who died before they reached the far side of the Atlantic.

The captain of the ship was given to bouts of intemperance and "hit the bottle" with little regard for his duties as skipper. As the ship neared America, he slipped into delirium tremens and was unable to steer the ship any further. Of all the passengers on board, only Elizabeth came forward to take control. She did so with confidence and brought the ship, it's passengers and all aboard safley to Boston.

So Elizabeth Bell was not a literary giant nor a painter or actress. She played no part in politics nor did anything of great significance before or after the journey to America. But did she have to? Did saving the lives of those on board the ship not mean that she was a very special lady who deserved to be remembered? I think so and if you agree, post a comment and let's not let this fine Ulster Scots woman be forgotten.

Teach our youth Ullans

All too often, the Ullans language has been misrepresented as a local accent thereby denying it centuries of history and the fact that it is in reality a language in its own right. As parents, we have a duty to encourage our kids to speak Ullans and show them the distinction between our ancient language and its English counterpart. Ir, in ither wurds .................

A Wurd Tae Wur Ain Yins

It haes niver bin aisy fer an Ulster Scot

Makin his wye through schule,

Gien that cas o tha wye he taaks,

He's apt tae bae seen as a fool.

His teachers wull caa it an accent

They micht mock him tae git him tae stap

Taakin in his ain tongue

Whur yinst they'd hae threatened him wie tha strap.

His class wull tak their cue frae tha maister

An goad an jeer tha wean

Fer they hae changed tha wye they taak

Because they're shalla an vain.

So if your wean haes pride in his roots

An wants tae use the Ullans tongue

Then dae aa ye can tae encourage him

Scream Ulster Scotch frae his lungs

Fer he'll fin hissel up agin it

But he haes tae withstaun tha misery

Cas the leid he's taakin is pairt

O hunners o years o history.

Ma ir Da hear these wheen o wurds

An play yer pairt in keepin tha leid alive

Fer wi'oot yer help tha Hamely Tongue

Wull neither keep gan nor thrive

Join iz tha believe in tha Ullans

An git yer weans tae dae tha same forbye

An atween iz aa tha Ulster Scotch

Wull niver iver die.

Response to Ulster Scots Academy Consultation

RESPONSE TO ULSTER SCOTS ACADEMY CONSULTATION


The Kingdom of Dalriada Ulster Scots Society was represented at the public meeting regarding the structures and mechanics of the proposed Ulster Scots Academy (Ballymoney Town Hall, Friday evening 21st September 2007) by the Society secretary Gary Blair.

Although we as a group are in favour of the establishment of the Academy, we are apprehensive about some aspects of it. They are as follows:

1. Centralisation of the Academy in Belfast
2. Definitions of Academics and native speakers and subsequent roles.
3. Collation of the language into a standard dictionary of words.

Whilst we understand fully that the government and the business sector is almost always minded to base headquarters in Belfast, we feel that this project should be very different to others. Ulster Scots is not spoken in Belfast but is spoken in the Western, Central and Southern zones, basically Co Donegal, Co Antrim and Co Down respectively. We therefore feel that the headquarters of the Academy should be based in one of these areas. That brings us to the question of which one?

Throughout the history of the islands that now comprise the British family of nations, there has only ever been one Ulster Scots kingdom – the kingdom of Dalriada. Surely that area should be considered as a base for the Academy? Should somewhere in the old Dalriadic kingdom not have the historical right to host such an establishment? Belfast could then be a regional centre for the promotion of the language. We believe that the northern part of County Antrim best reflects Ulster Dalriada thus the Academy should be based there. As well as the historical significance of north Antrim, we have contemporary writers and poets such as Charlie Gillan and Charlie Reynolds whom we regard as Cultural revivalists, ambassadors of the language and who are based in the old kingdom. Why should Belfast have prominence over those who tour the country bringing the language to thousands? The choice of Belfast as the main artery of the Academy will prove to be exceptionally unpopular for historical and contemporary reasons.

There does appear to be a distinction drawn between “academics” and “native speakers” in the consultation paper. Does this imply that one cannot be an academic and a native speaker or vice versa? To many, this smacks of intellectual snobbery and suggests that we who speak the language could not possibly be regarded as academics. This is also reflected in the scales of pay suggested. Whereas the “academics” will be paid handsomely, the native speakers will be paid less than the minimum wage for any work we do. This has not been well received by those who speak the language and are indeed the primary source for any material the Academy might choose to produce. Many believe that we, the speakers, have little value in the eyes of the academics and that the consultation paper reflects this regarding job descriptions and rates of pay. If there does prove to be some kind of institutionalised discrimination between the academics and native speakers and an “us and them” mentality comes to the fore with the speakers being made to feel like the poor cousins, then we envisage problems ahead. The next connotation is that the Academy will be staffed by Academics et al from the greater Belfast area. Although we have a good relationship with the Ulster Scots Agency, staffing there comes mainly from Co Down or Belfast city. We hope that both the Academy and the Agency will bear in mind that we in Co Antrim resisted institutional discrimination from the Education system and other agencies to keep the language alive thus we feel that we should have a significant role to play in the staffing of the Academy.

The collation of the language will be difficult and must be conducted with caution and respect for local variations. How will a word be classified as “Ulster Scots” and who will determine what is not an Ulster Scots word? By what means will this be determined? Can there really be a definitive all-encompassing Ullans language? During my time bringing the language to the children of the nine Ulster counties via the very rewarding Summer Schools organised effectively and efficiently by the Ulster Scots Agency, I had no difficulty persuading and convincing the children that “wame” is Ulster Scots for stomach and “sonsie” is Ulster Scots for pretty but I had a lot of difficulty persuading and convincing myself that this is the case.

Could it be that they are in fact Scots words but not Ullans? Or could it be that these words are used in the Western and/or Southern zones but not in the Central zone. If so, then bringing such words to the people of the Central zone may lead to resistance and subsequent scorn for the idea of a collated single language. I have noticed the DCAL have the following “translation” of the title CULTURE, ARTS AND LEISURE on their notepaper: “Fowkgates, Airts an Aisedom”. I noted the words down and conducted a private survey of native speakers, simply asking them what these words meant. Not one single person could understand ANY of the three words. Out of interest, I asked each person which language they thought it might be and the replies suggested Irish, Welsh or Polish! When I told them it was an Ulster Scots expression, I was laughed to scorn and sent on my way, made to feel foolish and an ignoramus. This, we fear, will be the reception that will greet those who create or transport alien words to the Ullans speaking areas of Ulster.

We conclude by giving a cautious welcome to the establishment of an Academy but, for our part, we feel that the points raised in this paper should be considered as they are weighty matters and we write from the pulse of the most densely populated Ullans speaking zone in Ulster.


Compiled by Gary Blair

On behalf of the Kingdom of Dalriada Ulster Scots Society, Ballymoney

FUSE FM 106.2

Of all the worthwhile projects launched and managed by the Ulster Scots Agency, one of the most meaningful and effective must be the radio station, fUSe FM. This project has been active in different areas throughout Ulster during the summer and when our friends at Listullycurran took on the licence for a fortnight at the beginning of September, we had the opportunity to go down there and host a daily show.

Organised and manned chiefly by Andy Mattison, the station was broadcast live from Listullycurran Orange Hall near Dromore, Co Down. Noel and I travelled down each morning from Monday to Friday to host a two-hour slot called "Twa Boadies Frae The Toon" which was described by at least one local as "Tiswas on the radio"! OK there were no gunge attacks and no injuries sustained but it certainly was an unconventional look at Ulster Scots!!

The Ullans language is principally a means of communication and all we really did was speak in "wur ain tongue" and launch crusades like the campaign to have the IFA accept the Border Reevers as the best group to lead out the National Northern Ireland team at Home matches! As yet, we are not too confident that the IFA has given this project the green light but be rest assured there was a great response for to the idea locally!

Along with the daily dose of banter, Noel gave out a number of words in Ullans to listeners and invited them to text in the definitions. We always had an encouraging response to this. I read a piece of local literature (Ballymoney local, that is) calling that section "Tales Frae the Toon".

The good folk of the area treated us with kindness and were all very supportive and it was encouraging to be a part of a project that attracted such support from the community. Indeed, we were so encouraged, we applied for a two-week licence for Ballymoney and we were successful! So, be warned, folks! Fuse FM will be broadcasting live frae the toon during the first two weeks of December. More details will be posted on this site nearer the time.

End of the Summer Schools

The last four Summer Schools we attended in August were at Carleton Street (Portadown), Upper Crossgare (Co Down), Drum (Co Monaghan) and Mountfield near Omagh, Co Tyrone. In common with our experiences elsewhere, we were met with enthusiastic and responsive children and leaders.

The Carleton Street Scool was well attended with a good supply of leaders which is vital to ensure the smooth running of the different classes. Equally, the schools at Upper Crossgare, Drum and Mountfield were well attended by leaders and children.

Initially, we thought we had a hard task ahead of us taking the Ullans language to children across the country and on both sides of the border. We had no props or gimmicks to hold the attention of our various audiences. However, were were encouraged and delighted in equal measure to find ourselves in areas where a genuine interest in the language was clearly evident.

To all who helped us, to the children and leaders and to Ed Hanna who never tired making the extra effort, we give a big thanks and we are looking forward to next year already!

FAIR Summer School

On Monday 6th August, I set off for Markethill to attend an Ulster Scots Summer School organised by the Victims Group, FAIR. The school was held in Kilcluney Orange Hall and was well attended with a good number of leaders in place to help keep order. Having said that, the kids were no problem at all and were receptive to the visiting teachers.

When I arrived at Kilcluney Orange Hall, I noticed members of the excellent Kellswater Flute Band had just finished introducing the kids to traditional music. I felt immediately disadvantaged as, as someone who was there to introduce the Ullans language to them, I had no flutes or drums to hold their attention!

In any event, I needn't have worried as the kids weren't long in taking an interest in the Ullans language. I found that some of the children were already familiar with some Ullans vocabulary and used the words frequently without realising it.

The school went well and we all enjoyed our time at Kilcluney.

Balnamore Fun Day

On Saturday 4th August, the Community Association in Balnamore (near Ballymoney) held a very successful and well attended Fun Day for the people of the village. The event was not without an Ulster Scots flavour, reflecting the identity and make up of the village.

The weather was kind to the organisers and the event kicked off at 12 noon with the marquees quickly filling up and the grounds of the park coming alive with people of all ages. Games of the old Ulster Scots favourite, horse shoes, proved to be an attraction as did the appearance of a clown who had a non-stop repartee of jokes and yarns. Bakers of Traditional Ulster Scots breads kept many attendees filled with soda and fadge (proota breid) and I noted that "some yins were hard tae fill, the gluttons!"

Jimmy and I didn't arrive empty-handed and as soon as dancers left the stage, we got them lambegs out and got playing them. We were ably assisted by Alan Wright who lets on he can't play them but was unmasked as a guid drummer on Saturday! His cousin Raymond also surprised everyone by getting one on and giving us all a demonstration of club drumming that was awa abain mae heid!

A great day and our thanks to Louise and the organisers for inviting us. Hope aa yer lugs hae quet ringin bae noo!

Ulster Scots Festival, Kilrea

On Saturday 28th July, my mate Jimmy and I attended a very enjoyable festival organised by the fledgling Kilrea Ulster Scots group. On the previous evening, the group had put on a show that included the Ulster Scots dancers from Moyne, Co Donegal. They stayed over and we had the pleasure of meeting them on the Saturday.

On the day itself, Jimmy and I were treated to our share (maybe more than my share!) of a well-cooked barbecue in the grounds of Kilrea Orange Hall. After some fodder, we felt equipped to get the lambegs out and give them a rattle for the good folk of Kilrea and district who had come along to support the event.

It was great to see such enthusiasm and practical interest in the Ulster Scots culture in Kilrea and I wish them well for the future.

Summer School, Ballyroney

On Tuesday 24th July, Noel and myself left the familiarity of Ballymoney and headed to the uncharted land of County Down in search of Ballyroney. It may only differ from our Hame Toon by one letter but there the similarity ends!

Noel navigated our way to Moira and, with the use of a handy AA map, we even made it to Katesbridge. After a phone call or two, we found Ballyroney and we were glad to make in aa in tha yin piece! The imposing Orange Hall by the side of the road was literally swarming with kids. When we asked how many were attending, Margaret told us there were over seventy as she calmly made us a cuppa!

Again we split the mass of kids into two groups and did our double-act. The younger kids were predictably excitable but equally well behaved and eager to learn more about their lugs, heid and thrapple! When tested, they proved to have been listening as they answered correctly and getting the pronunciation just right.

The older kids then had a turn and we explained the origins of the language, making it plain that the Plantation was the return of the lowland Scots who had been driven out of Ulster by the Celts. It was these people who brought the language to Ulster when they returned to their native lands thus dispelling the notion that we are in some way invaders and usurpers. Again, we had no difficulty in getting the attention of the class as each of them were keen to learn more about Ullans. The end of the lesson proved they had listened and taken in the vocabulary we brought to Ballyroney.

It was a pleasure for us to have visited Ballyroney and very encouraging to have seen first hand the demand and interest in Ulster Scots. My thanks to the helpers, leaders and children for a great day and, again, fair play to the Agency and big Ed for a tremendous effort in organising the school.

Summer Schools in Newry and Cullybackey

I had the honour and privilege of attending an Ulster Scots Summer School today in the border town of Newry and it was tremendous to see the RJ Mitchell Memorial Orange Hall packed with local children eager to learn more about the culture we take for granted here in north Antrim.

The volume of children was such that it was only possible to speak to them about the language in two seperate groups. The first group consisted mainly of children under 8 years old and after an introduction to the basics of the language, we had a game of "Gary Says" which was all done in the Ullans language. For children who had never had any real experience of conversing in Ullans, it was amazing that they did so well and an indication of their willingness to learn.

The second group was over 8 yrs to early teens and there was no difference in the degree of interest shown. The kids really did everyone proud by listening very intentively and, when tested near the end of the lesson, I was very pleasantly surprised by the amount of vocabulary they retained in their memory.

The Newry group, in common with all other shcools I have visited, were attentive, well-behaved and well supervised. It was a pleasure to visit the Hall and meet the good fol of Newry who are determined that their children will not be force-fed Anglo-Irish propaganda, putting our language and culture in the shade.

My next stop was a richt bit nearder hame - Cullybackey. Running a bit late due to numerous roadworks and diversions (you'll all appreciate that we don't enjoy being re-routed!), I arrived at the local High School and was met by Andy McGregor who had the kids all ready and divided into manageable groups. Again, over 40 kids had gathered to learn more about their culture. And again, I was met with enthusiasm and genuine interest in a well staffed and well disciplined school. As I left Cullbackey I couldn't help but think that if a small village could organise an event such as this, then every other town and village should do likewise next year.

Again, I must pay tribute to the volunteers and children who have given up their time to run valuable projects such as this. Let's not forget Ed Hanna who has worked tirelessly to organise and co-ordinate the schools across Ulster. His work, though understated, cannot be under valued. The Ulster Scots movement owe Ed and the Ulster Scots Agency a huge debt of gratitude for all their work. Well done!

Summer School, Raphoe, Co Donegal

Today (Thursday 19th July), Noel and I set off from Ballymoney to Raphoe in Donegal to meet the kids and leaders there. The Raphoe Ulster Scots recently hosted a very successful Ulster Scots festival that attracted good crowds and plenty of positive press coverage.

On the way, we passed the partly built building where the Orange Hall once stood in Bready and couldn't help but admire the dedication of the Ulster Scots of the North West who have successfully secured £500,000 funding to put in place an already impressive looking building that will undoubtedly act as a catalyst for the Ulster Scots community in that part of rural Ulster.

We soon arrived at Raphoe and quickly found the Cathedral Hall where we were greeted by team leaders and a squad of over forty children who were quite obviously enjoying this, the first Ulster Scots Summer School in the town. Splitting the groups into two, according to age, Noel and I were pleasantly surprised to discover that quite a few children and leaders spoke Ullans instinctively. The kids were well-behaved and keen to learn so we did our best to teach them and the event was a success for all concerned.

I would like to pay tribute to the leaders in Raphoe for organising a well-ordered and event-packed school. Also, a word for the kids who were keen and quick to learn the Ullans language. A great day in Raphoe!

Lambegs in North Antrim

Bendooragh Orange Lodge
12th July 2007
Ballymoney Lambeg Drum Contest
14th July 2007

With the Twelfth over, the celebrations didn't die in north Antrim as the lambeg fraternity gave the public a demonstration in the art of competition drumming. On 14th July, a dozen lambegs descended on the village of Clough for the annual afternoon contest. Although the weathere turned bad, the contest got off to a good start as drummers from all over Ulster pitted their skills against each other in a bid to win the cup.

After the Clough contest, the drummers headed on into Ballymoney to the annual evening contest. Here the weather stayed dry and a good crowd gathered to watch the spectacle. Those who attended the Clough contest are grateful to the Spratt family for organising this annual event and the people of Ballymoney are grateful to Peter Robinson and his family for running things in the Toon.

The lambeg is an integral part of the Ulster Scots musical tradition and it was alive and well in north Antrim over the Twelfth with many lodges using them to lead them in Cloughmills and two drumming contests a few days later. The drums require a lot of skill and time in preparing them for playing and we should all be grateful to those who devote so much time and energy to promoting them in all parts of Ulster.

Lambeg Drumming Match

Keen lambeg drum enthusiasts will not want to miss the annual Drumming Match being held this Saturday (14th July) in Ballymoney. The event is being hosted jointly by the County Antrim Drumming Association and Ballymoney District LOL 16 and will be held outside Ballymoney Orange Hall in Upper High Street, commencing at 8:00pm.

Each year, drummers from across the Province converge in Ballymoney for this event and this year should be no exception. The art of lambeg drumming is witnessing something of a revival but we should pay tribute to those who have kept the art alive down through the years with all the determination that is required to play this great symbol of the Ulster Scots musical tradition.

Ulster Scots Evening, Bendooragh

On 10th July, the Ulster Scots community of Bendooragh enjoyed an evening of the best traditional crack that featured the cream of local talent. The Orange Hall played host to the event organised by Bendooragh & District Community Association with a mix of stories, songs, music and poetry. Led by Charlie Gillen, the stories and banter flowed and the hall rocked with laughter as Charlie got into his stride. Alan Wade entertained the crowd with periodic tunes on the pipes and everyone appreciated the songs and renditions from Noel Devenney. A similar event was held last year with the same acts but this year Charlie Reynolds was added to the billing and recieved the same enthusiastic applause as the others.

The evening of entertainment lasted a good two hours and no one saw the time pass. It did us all good to sit back and enjoy the crack and enjoy the rich Ulster Scots language, music and literary talent from our own area. The Community Association would like to thank the ambassadors of our culture for bringing such cheer to the village on such a dismal night and also everyone who supplied and served refreshments. We would exhort other groups throughout Ulster to organise similar events so the Ulster Scots culture can be enjoyed and promoted by everyone.

Summer Schools in the North West

I was on my travels again on Thursday 5th July when I did a whistle stop tour of Ulster Scots Summer Schools in the North West of the Province. I was met bright and early (the day that was, not me!) at New Buildings by James Kee who, after a hearty breakfast, took me to Ballylaw. I never heard of it before and it turned out to be a townland but that only illustrates further the interest in the Ulster Scots culture and the dedication of the good folk of the area when I was confronted with a spacious community hall packed with children. Dividing the kids into two groups and with the help and supervision of leaders, I gave two adresses on the language of the Ulster Scots. My only difficulty was speaking English between times in a bid to be understood!

After that, I stopped off at Bready where the local Presbyterian Hall was alive with various activities and children again eager to learn more about the language and culture of the Ulster Scots. The Ulster Scots community in Bready are a step ahead of most and have a huge new builing going up in the village dedicated to the various strands our culture.

I was then sent to Donnemanna where another hall full of keen children awaited me. The kids there were again being supervised by a determined and dedicated team of leaders who gave me every assistance as I introduced the language to everyone present.

My last call for the day was to New Buildings and what can I say? With over 100 kids enrolled in the summer school there and a team of the best leaders to keep order and keep the momentum going, it was a pleasure to play a small role in adding to their schedule by bringing the kids an introduction to Ullans. I did get some light-hearted banter when I forgot myself and shouted "Come on ower here across tha fleur aa o yez!"

It was a very enjoyable and fulfilling day and tribute should be paid to Edd Hanna, the Ulster Scots Agency, the regional organisers, leaders and the kids themselves for making the summer schools such a huge success in the West.

Scarva Ulster Scots Summer School

Today I set off from Ballymoney, safe in Ulster Scots country, to the village of Scarva. These were uncharted waters for me as I never drove there from the North before. I was decidedly proud of myself when I made it to the picturesque village in one piece and was embarrassed to find that after a two-hour drive to my destination, I actually got lost in Scarva itself!! This is no easy task as the village is set along one street more or less yet I managed to get on the road to Banbridge before George Patton rang me to put me right and save me from getting totally flumoxed!

When I got to the church hall where the school was being held, the kids were out playing the ancient Ulster Scots game of fitba. I sipped a cup of coffee and looked out the window as a very heavy shower of rain came on. I noticed a line of kids running towards the hall and went into panic mode as I realised that every child in Scarva was coming my way! When they all got into the hall there was about 30 of them and only one of me so I was the definite underdog!

My worries were totally unfounded, though, as George and his team were in total control and well organised. He had a good squad of leaders who were enthusiastic about the project and very conscientous in their roles. I delivered my part history/part language spiel and the audience were very very keen and receptive. They are not indigeneous speakers of the language but clearly wanted to learn. They were able to name every part of the body in fluent Ulster Scots and could translate a healthy number of words and phrases from English into our language before we packed up for the day.

My thanks to George et al for a great day and a special thanks to Ed Hanna who has knocked himself out co-ordinating the schools across Ulster.

Bruce Festival, Stranocum

Last night, I braved the rain and winds (the typical Ulster summer!) and made for the village of Stranocum to see what was going on at the Robert The Bruce Festival where my good mate, Noel, was playing a central role. When I got there, I called in to Stranocum Orange Hall where I saw a very impressive display of memorabalia. Ancient minute books caught my eye instantly as these were hand-written accounts of men long dead, recording events in the village as they happened.

The display of banners old and new, coupled with every band uniform Stranocum ever had was like walking through history. I was encouraged to see such activity around the Hall as there was last night with plenty of people showing a keen interest in all that was going on.

Next I called into the portacabin by the brig and enjoyed an hour's crack as Noel introduced the indigeneous speakers to the written language of the Ulster Scots. Its a beautiful language that we should have been encouraged to learn down the years instead of being made to feel embarrassed about speaking it. Noel, myself and others are trying to convince people that we don't speak "bad English" - we speak GOOD ULSTER SCOTS!

The Festival in Stranocum continues on until the 11th July and it would be worth your while to call out and get a warm welcome from the guid fowk o Stranocum and enjoy the crack.

Portglenone Summer School

I had the privilege of attending the first session of Portglenone Ulster Scots Summer School today (Tuesday 3rd July 2007). The school attracted 15 children from the village and, as I had been invited to speak to them about the Ulster Scots language, I was gye feared they micht naw sit still fer mae!!

As it turned out, the children were generally receptive though the opportunity to be less than attentive at times in the absence of their regular schoolteacher did tend to inspire the occasional bout of excited chatter. Still, dour Ulster Scot that I am, I continued regardless and ended my session with a recap of the words I had introduced. To my relief, almost the whole class recalled every word without difficulty.

Next up was William Wilkinson who introduced the kids to various aspects of the Ulster Scots history and culture. Again, the kids were receptive, punctuated by the odd bout of whispering and laughter! They certainly enjoyed the crack and enthusiastically answered all the questions put to them by William who concluded by setting a quiz that soon proved that the children had learned something new.

After a short break, Mark and Bobby from Conlig arrived with a lambeg drum, kettle drum and miniature lambeg as well as a selection of fifes and whistles. A history and description of the workings of the lambeg was duly delivered to a more captive audience and the subsequent quiz demonstrated that the kids had paid close attention to the speakers. The kids then got the chance to rattle out a roll or two on the lambeg and William and myself did likewise as Mark fifed. I was not offered a job as a drummer!

The archery session then followed but alas I had to leave before the arrows began flying but I spoke to William afterwards and no casualties were reported!

All in all it was a great day and a great idea. Its heartening to know that the uptake on the Summer Schools is up this year as the children certainly enjoyed learning all about their identity. My thanks to William, Angela, Betty and Harry for their invitation and their obvious commitment to the Ulster Scots culture.

Ulster's Slain Remembered

On 1st July 1916, over 20,000 Allied soldiers lost their lives in the most disastrous battle ever fought, the Battle of the Somme. The gross ineptitude of the armchair generals was in sharp contrast to the courage of those who died on that terrible day. The 36th Ulster Division suffered over 5ooo casualties on the first day of the Battle and the flower of Ulster was dealt an almost fatal blow.

Although all those who died were not Ulster Scots, a significant number were. It is fitting that a memorial service is held each year on the Sunday nearest 1st July in Dervock in the heart of Ulster Scots country. The wreath laying ceremony and service is organised annually by Derrykieghan LOL 995 and this year there was a huge turnout of Orange Brethren from throughout North Antrim. The picture above shows part of the wreath laying ceremony, prior to the church parade in St Colman's Parish Church.

At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, WE WILL REMEMBER THEM.

Rev William Martin Remembered

On Friday 29th June past, a large crowd gathered at the Shanaghy and Vow Road junction to mark the 250th anniversary of the ordination of Rev William Martin. Rev Martin was the first Covenanter (Reformed Presbyterian) clergyman to be ordained anywhere in Ireland and this was not the only significant mark he made in history.

William Martin was born near Ballykelly but finished his education in Dumfries, Scotland. On 2nd July 1757, he was ordained a Covenanter minister in an open air service held at The Vow, between Ballymoney and Kilrea. As the only Covenanter minister in Antrim and Down, the two counties became his parish, so to speak, and Rev Martin, though resident at Kellswater, had supervisory responsibility for Covenanter groups at Ballymoney, Dervock, Cloughmills, Leighmore and Cullybackey.

Rev William Martin was no shrinking violet. On top of his mammoth preaching and pastoral duties, he was vocal in his opposition to the High Church (Anglican) authorities who openly discriminated against those whom Martin represented. The oppressed Presbyterians were subjected to excessive rent demands and when payment could not be found to cover them, the tenants were evicted. After much prayerful deliberation, Rev Martin recieved a call to Rocky Creek, a small settlement in South Carolina.

In 1772, around a thousand Covenanters and others, including Roman Catholics, left Ulster under the leadership of Rev Martin. It took 5 ships to ferry the emigrates to the New Country, namely the James and Mary, Lord Dunluce, Pennsylvania Farmer, The Hopewell and The Freemason. Most of those on board the ships came from Ballymoney, Kilraughts, Derrykeighan, Ballyrashane, The Vow and Kellswater. It was a tremendous feat at that time to lead so many people so far in such vessels yet this only goes to illustrate the determination of Rev William Martin.

Although, due to the excessive numbers involved, the large group was scattered throughout the New Country, the majority settled in and around Rocky Creek. In 1774, Rev Martin's congregation opened their own meetinghouse and he began a prosperous ministry. When the War of Independence broke out, he supported the Patriots (Americans) against the British and openly urged others to do so too! James Anderson was but one Ballymoney native to heed the call and die at the hands of the British in that war. Rev Martin had his meetinghouse burned down in 1780 and was himself imprisoned for his patriotism.

The service at The Vow on 29th June was well attended and a plaque in memory of this great Covenanter who made such a difference in the Ulster Scots heartland was erected at the old Vow graveyard. The addresses were given by Rev Robert Hanna and Rev John Hawthorne. It was a fitting tribute to a great yet humble man and the Covenanters should be commended for marking the life of Rev William Martin in this manner.

The plaque can be viewed at any time at the old Vow graveyard.

Book of Verse From N Antrim

A must for those interested in local talent is the book of verse from Ballymoney's own Hugh Carton. Entitled "A Medley Of Poems Old & New", the book is packed with poems written by Hugh and presented in a colourful and very enjoyable publication.

The first poem is an ode to one of Ballymoney's most famous sons, entitled "To The Memory Of Joey Dunlop" and the remainder of the poems in the book are a mixture of poignant, humorous and descriptive verses penned with obvious thought and deliberation. Hugh tackles issues such as politics in his witty offering entitled "Our Politicians", the threatened open cast mining in north Antrim ("The Lignite Contraversy") and descriptive poems with topics such as O'Roarks Kitchen at Ballintoy, White Park Bay and the River Bush.

Hugh Carton is an 87 year-old author who has taken the time to provide us with a valuable keepsake of his thoughts and memories in verse. For copies of the book, the author has given me his permission to include an address for orders. Write to Hugh Carton, 12 Shandon Park, Ballymoney, Co Antrim BT53 7BA. Don't miss the chance to have a copy of A Medley of Poems Old & New.

Ulster Scots on Rathlin

The camera never lies, they say, so here is living proof that Noel and I made it to Rathlin in one piece, only to find that other Ulster Scots had discovered it first! An enjoyable evening was had by all and Rathlin is a place worth visiting at any time.

Noel is busily organising the Robert The Bruce Festival in Stranocum which begins on Monday 2nd July 2007. As well as Ulster Scots language classes, there will be Horse Shoes, Exhibitions and Re-Enactments by the hugely entertaining Border Reevers. Further details are available on another post so be sure to look them up and make for Stranocum on Monday 2nd.

Ulster Scots Experience

One of the main attractions at the annual Games Day in Ballymoney was the Ulster Scots Experience. To hear them play and see them perform is an experience indeed and a pleasant one at that. Featuring all-round singer/musician, John Trotter and the superb Valerie Quinn, the Experience brings out the very best inUlster Scots music. If you want to learn more about this fabulous group, why not check out their website at www.ulsterscotsexperience.co.uk and read it for yourself.

Anniversary at The Vow

On the evening of Friday 29th June, a special service will be held in the open air in a field on the Shanaghy Road near to where it meets the Vow Road, between Ballymoney and Kilrea at The Vow. The service has been organised by the Ballymoney and Ballylaggan congregations of the Reformed Presbyterian (Covenanter) church. It markks the ordination of Rev William Martin which was conducted near that location on 2nd July 1757.

William Martin was born near Ballykelly in 1729 and studied Theology in Scotland for some time before returning to his native Ulster. He became the first Minister of the Kellswater Congregation in 1760 but, mainly due to the persecution of the Covenamters by the governments of the time, he undertook an amazing task by organising a mass migration of Ulster Scots from here to America. A total of eighty families left Ulster and the majority of them settled in Rocky Creek. When the Anglo-American war (or War of Independence) broke out, many of Rev Martin's congregation joined the Patriotic Army and fought against the British. Rev Martin himself was in favour of this course of action and found himself persecuted and imprisoned for his beliefs.

The UlsterScotsJournal&News will be offering more on the life of Rev William Martin in the near future. In the meantime, do not miss the forthcoming 250th anniversary service at The Vow on Friday 29th July 2007 at 7:30pm.

Rathlin Bound

When my good mate Noel from Stranocum Ulster Scots told me he could get us a "lift" to Rathlin Island for the Robert the Bruce Festival on the evening of Friday 22nd June, I thought it would be just the ticket! So, at about 6:45pm on the evening in question, a carload of us arrived at Ballycastle Harbour Rathlin bound. Fifteen minutes later, we were aboard a fishing boat and heading out of the harbour. The picture here will show that I'm no sailor and you will note the youngster casually looking over the side as I clung on for grim death! When we got to the other side (of Rathlin Sound - I didn't die!) my fingers were dug into the cabin roof so hard that the whole crew had to prise them off.

It was a hair-raising experience (for those who have some) but well worth it when my shooglie legs touched down on the dry land of Rathlin. A huge marquee had been erected and Mark Thompson treated us to a talk on the Bruce before Frances Black entertained the crowds in song.

We headed off before dark and this time my other half offered to give me her place in the cabin, saying she preferred to stand on deck. Well, the first crossing was calm compared to the second one! My wife sailed into Ballycastle soaked to the skin but it was all part of the crack. At least that was how I saw it from the dry warmth of the cabin!

Our thanks to the crew and the good folk of Rathlin for a memorable night!

Ulster Scots Games, Ballymoney 23/06/07

Although Alan and Davy were dressed for the part, they did not leave the Games with any prizes. As Davy has the unfair advantage of being too big and too strong, he was elected as non-particpating referee! Alan did his bit (as shown here) but was unlucky. The Caber was donated by Taggarts Timber Yard on the Bann Road and was greatly appreciated, though no-one thought so the next morning when they awoke with aches and pains from head to toe!

Ulster Scots Games, Ballymoney 23/06/07

The Border Reevers Re-Enactment Group took no prisoners when they chose me to don the mantle of Robert the Bruce! They hung 3 stones of chainmail from my head and then stuck a heavy steel helmet on me before attacking me with swords! Still, they weren't allowed to kill me as I was Royalty so I survived the ordeal ... just!

Ulster Scots Summer Schools 2007

The Ulster Scots Agency has organised a number of summer schools throughout Ulster this year. Last year 7 groups opted to take part and this year a magnificent 36 groups have registered. This is very encouraging and the Agency should be commended for sticking with this initiative. It is estimated that over 2000 children will attend the projects and all aspects of Ulster Scots traditions will be covered including music and dancing, language and poetry and various sports associated with our Ulster Scots history.

If you seek further information on the summer schools or if you want to know if one is being held in your area, contact the Ulster Scots Agency on (028) 9023 1113 or check out the website at www.UlsterScotsAgency,com and find out more.

Stranocum Robert The Bruce Festival

The STRANOCUM ULSTER SCOTS CULTURAL & HERITAGE SOCIETY will be hosting a series of events in the village this July to mark the 700th anniversary of the visit of Robert The Bruce to Rathlin.

On Monday 2nd July, Tuesday 3rd July and Thursday 5th July there will be a display of banners, drums and uniforms in Stranocum Orange Hall from 7pm - 9pm. The exhibition will also run from Monday 9th July until Wednesday 11th July in the Hall. On Wednesday 4th July, Stranocum Flute Band will host a parade of bands in nearby Ballymoney commencing at 8:30pm.

Ulster Scots Language inductions, hosted by a trained tutor in the language, will be held in the Portacabin by the bridge in Stranocum on 2nd, 3rd and 5th July and a Horse Shoe competition will be held at the bridge area on Saturday 7th July starting at 12 noon.

Monday 9th July will see a 7 -a-side football competition at the football field commencing at 10am and there will also be a family fun day with Bouncy Castles, Face Painting etc from 1pm - 5pm. On Tuesday 10th July there will be re-enactments of Williamite Armies and then Robert the Bruce from 1pm - 4pm with an Ulster Scots Cookery Demonstration running from 1pm - 4pm in the portacabin. The festival will close on 11th July with a Bonfire and Firework display in the village.

For Ulster Scots enthusiasts and followers of the Orange Culture, be sure to be in Stranocum for one if not all of these events! We wish the organisers well and every success in the venture.

Ulster Scots Games Day

Saturday 23rd June saw the third annual Ulster Scots Games Day in Ballymoney hosted by the Kingdom of Dalriada Ulster Scots Society. After a damp start, the growing crowds were entertained by Dunaghy Accordian Band, Garvagh Pipe Band, the acclaimed Ulster Scots Experience orchestra and the Bendooragh Lambeg Drummers. Other performers included the Purple Thistle Ulster Scots Dancers from Bready, the Border Reevers Re-Enactment Group and Big Jim Mattison, baker of traditional Ulster breads.

Games included tug-o-war, tossing the caber, throwing the wellie and throwing the sheaf and Horse Shoes. Children's entertainment came in the form of face painting, balloon modelling and bouncy castles. A day worth going to and one to watch out for next year!