Family’s wonderful connection with YMCA
Gill looks back on cherished memories of the institution in Paisley
Memories of one of Paisley’s most beloved institutions have been shared as it prepares to celebrate a special anniversary.
The YMCA was set up 185 years ago in the town next month, and for Foxbar woman Gill Sullivan, 61, the event has a special significance.
Mrs Sullivan’s grandfather John Lorimer was the janitor in the building when it was located at 25 High Street, and her father Alec was born there.
She said: “My grandfather was basically the janitor, although his official title was Curator-Collector, I think, from the paper notice of his appointment. “He was appointed in 1910. “The entrance used to be slightly further down on the High Street from the current setting.
“It was before the false frontage of the street was created and all the numbers were changed.
“I think it eventually became 39, where it is now. the YMCA, congratulating him on his medal, although the family does not known for which particular courageous act he received it.
“I knew it was for bravery in the field, but I don’t know what the exact action was,” she said
Mrs Sullivan added: “My dad Alec and my aunt Jean were both born at the YMCA here.
“My father lost his first teeth in its gymnasium when he fell off the wall bars.
“As a child, when his second teeth came in they were all black, so they went too.
“My dad had pneumonia when he lived here and was expected to die.
“I think he was laid on the kitchen table at the time – but obviously he didn’t die because I’m here today to tell the tale.
“As the years went on, during the Second World War, grandpa was an ARP warden.
“He was at Woodside [ First Aid Post] after the disaster there.” “That would be in the 60s.” As a young Rangers Guide, the young Gill would attend meetings herself at the YMCA.
“And as a very young child I came to elocution lessons here,” she said.
“Back in the 1950s, speaking properly was very important to my parents.
“It was the year before I went to school, so I’d be four. “It was reciting poetry really. “Nowadays, lots of random strands of verse come into my head, and I think, where did that come from?
“As I say, if your parents wanted you to be a proper young lady, then you did elocution and health and beauty.”
She added: “It been a long family connection, with both my aunt and father being born here [at the YMCA], and grandpa’s long years of service.”