Black History Month - Sharing Stories

Yesterday, I attended a book launch, "New Shoots, Old Roots", by the African & Caribbean Women's Association at the Glasgow Women's Library. This lively event supported a sharing of stories by women from African and Caribbean backgrounds living in Scotland.

 Cover of the book "New Shoots, Old Roots"

The stories told in the book should be shared widely to promote better understanding of Scotland's history. To promote health and wellbeing, there is a need to ensure this history of an older generation of women is shared with new migrants and a wide range of educational institutions. 

The African & Caribbean Women's Association supports awareness raising about Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia as well as promoting social welfare, recreation and leisure to improve the lives of its members and their children. 

Celebrate Allotment Heritage

I attended a Glasgow Allotment Forum's event on 6th October where I received information about an exhibition "War and Peas" taking place from 5th November to 17th December 2018, at the Mitchell Library. 

War and Peas Booklet is available.

The exhibition will tell the stories of Glasgow's WW1 allotments and detail why food growing was a vital part of home-front life.

Cycling on the John Muir Way

Between 14th - 18th October, I made a cycle trip along the John Muir Way from Balloch to Dunbar. It was a chance to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Scottish Canals and a series of woodlands that were full of autumn colours. The days were dry and sunny. I had overnight stays in Blanefield, Falkirk, South Queensferry and Longniddry. 

Litter issues are a concern for the communities on the John Muir Way, especially at Blackness and Dunbar. Specific local signs to discourage littering were on display.

Blackness, Firth of Forth

Dunbar

On the route, there was evidence of interest in food growing as there were community garden projects in place. In Falkirk, there are raised beds with kitchen vegetables in the main shopping area. On the Water of Leith Walkway, I found raised beds growing vegetables and flowers.

Falkirk

Edinburgh - Balgreen Community Garden

I came across wildflower meadows at several places including Saughton Park and Davidson Mains Park in Edinburgh. 

Edinburgh - Davidson Mains Park

This cycling experience has developed my knowledge of the natural heritage of Central Scotland. Also, I was able to access iconic features of our landscape such as the Falkirk Wheel and Forth Railway Bridge.

A walk in the Park

This afternoon, I enjoyed a walk through Kelvingrove Park to the Snow Bridge which has been undergoing repairs. The works have been completed and so, I was able to walk across the bridge and look out across the River Kelvin.

Looking across the Snow Bridge

View of the Snow Bridge, River Kelvin and Glasgow University.

This is a vital access route for walkers and cyclists to/from the University. I am very glad that funding has been made available to carry out the vital repairs to the Snow Bridge.

Great Scottish Run 10K

Today, I participated in the Great Scottish Run and completed the 10K. I ran alongside the oldest runner who was 93 years old!

It was perfect weather for jogging across the city from George Square to Glasgow Green. Many thanks to the organisers, volunteers and the musicians on the route.

International Car Free Day 2018

Yesterday, International Car Free Day was celebrated with the closure of Kelvin Way between 12 noon and 6pm. People gathered together to take part in various street games, bike projects and outdoor activities.

 Signage on Kelvin Way

 Bikes available to try out.

 Space for climbing wall, face painting, dancing, 

walking and cycling activities.

Road closure started at the bridge on Kelvin Way.

The sunshine encouraged people to come along and develop their cycling skills or enjoy playing in the street. Due to the success of this event, it is hoped to continue street play events involving local bike projects and outdoor activity groups across the city.

Tree damage by Storm Ali

I walked through Kelvingrove Park on Friday afternoon and found seven routes blocked by fallen trees. There is extensive damage to trees due to the high winds of Storm Ali. A clean up of the debris is underway with paths being opened up.

 Trees blocking routes through Kelvingrove Park.

A tree survey will be needed to identify the number and types of trees damaged by the storm. In the long-term, tree planting will be required to replace some trees that have been uprooted.