Strathaven

Strathaven Drama Club The drama club are currently in the rehearsal process for Oliver alongside the preparations for their Strathaven Gala float. Thanks to Galloway and MacLeod of Stonehouse who have been unbelievably generous in giving use of a lorry. The sheltered housing complex in Strathaven will be getting a show from the members on Wednesday, May 24. They’ll get a sneaky peek of Oliver along with some numbers from past productions.

Young Farmers Avondale Young Farmers held their AGM on March 7. The new office bearers are: Chairman – Andrew Neilson; Secretary – Laura Ritchie; Vice-chairman – Graeme Ramsay. Assistant secretary – Shona Lister; Treasurer – Scott Frame; Assistant treasurer – Graeme Allan. On April 18, the club held their new members night at Chapelton Church hall which had a great turnout with 47 members going along. Representatives from Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution, Strathaven Townmill and Diabetes Scotland were also present to collect cheques. The YFC will also host their annual car treasure hunt on Sunday, May 14, starting at 6.30pm in Sandford Hall. Everyone is welcome. Strathaven Academy Youngsters at Strathaven Academy have produced a music CD entitled ‘Shine’. It features a wide variety of instrumental and vocal music from the school’s concert band, string orchestra, ceilidh band, glee club, senior pupil and staff choir, guitar group, junior choir and pop vocal group. It also features a specially composed school anthem performed by over 300 pupils in S1 and S2. Copies cost £5 from the music department and the office at the school.

Taiko Dojo classes The instructors at the Mugen Taiko Dojo have extensive experience working with schools around the UK delivering high-quality workshop programmes. The group has just completed an extensive project with West Lothian Council funded by youth music initiative and Creative Scotland, leading to primary pupils’ performances at Howden Park Centre. Now for the first time, junior taiko classes are on offer at the organisation’s home base near Strathaven. The classes will run on Wednesdays, starting on May 10, from 4pm and 5pm for kids under 12, costing £5 per session. Visit www.taiko.co.uk/ schools/hands-on-workshops for more information.