Kick it up for Kilbride

OBAN, Argyll- Friends of Kilbride (FroK) will kick off a capital fundraiser with a dinner and céilidh at Kilmore Village Hall near Oban on April 21, featuring fare by Silver Laced Catering and music by The Hollow Mountain String Band.

FroK is a registered charity dedicated to the management of the kirk, which was built in 1249 and modified in the 16th century, as well as the graveyard and associated archaeological sites at Kilbride. It is located three miles south of Oban in Lerags.

At one time, Kilbride, along with nearby Kilmore, was the most important centre in the area. The kirk, now a partial ruin, was built over a much older site of wor- ship dating from at least the 6th century, when St Brigid founded the parish, and perhaps to the pre- Christian era. The graveyard boasts over a dozen monuments made in the distinctive medieval West Highland style, and chiefs of the Clan MacDougall have been buried there for centuries. James IV mandated that the oldest sons of the Scottish gentry be educated, so starting in the 15th century, clan chiefs from all over Argyll sent their sons to the school at Kilbride. According to archaeologists, there are likely several important heritage sites surrounding the kirk, with much to reveal about life in medieval Scotland.

After submitting a £165,000 preservation plan developed by conservation architect Shauna Cameron of Benderloch, FroK has announced a capital fundraising campaign for preservation work and further archaeological surveys.

‘Kick it up for Kilbride’ will launch the campaign in fine Highland style with food, fun and fellowship, including a glass of fizz on arrival, a three course meal, followed by dancing and music. Tickets are £21 and include a shuttle bus to Oban. There will also be raffle prizes and multi-media displays about the Kilbride preservation project. The event is BYOB.

Booking is essential. For tickets and information, or to donate, call 01631 565081 or v is itwww. friends of kilbride. scot.