Clachan Smallholders’ Wild West hoedown
Woodworkers and artists became guitarists and violinists to spur on a Wild Westthemed Clachan celebration of local crafts, industry, culture and music. Through the day, last Saturday, Clachan Smallholders’ Gathering welcomed crafters from across Argyll to the village hall and playing field. Fresh vegetables, art, bric-abrac, soap and various crafts were on sale in the hall, with a variety of home-made soups available from the kitchen. Outside, Wild West games were played as hardy visitors tested their strength on a bucking bronco fair ride and younger guests had their faces painted. Arran woodcarver Henry Murdo brought some of his masterpieces as well as a work-in-progress, a rabbit on which people could try their hand at carving. Mark MacSporran involved people of all ages in Samba drumming, using a variety of instruments to create a carnival rhythm. At night local performers, including Gaia Silvan, who sold her art through the day, and Terry Russell, who demonstrated his woodworking skills, joined other local musicians on stage. The headline act, Berkshirebased ska/reggae five-piece Dub The Earth, brought people to their feet straight away. Even after the official event ended revellers gathered round a camp fire with guitars, strumming the night away until 4am. Organisers Lori Silvan and Garreth Roberts thanked everyone for supporting the event, which first took place a decade ago. ‘This is the first year we have had funding from West Kintyre Windfarm Trust for which we’re really grateful,’ Lori said. ‘Before it has always been funded out of our own pockets.’ Lori introduced Terry Russell and Elaine MacCallum, who met at the first smallholders’ gathering and are now engaged with a five-year-old son, Scott. ‘This is our first night out for ages,’ the couple said, ‘It’s mad trying to get a night out with a five-year-old.’ ‘There are other couples here tonight who also met at previous events,’ Lorri added. ‘It’s a romantic place.’