The Strathleven Artizans/Robert the Bruce Heritage Centre’s Royal party set the occasion off by heading the march through the Hampden tunnel out onto the local streets, followed by pipers, TV and journalist personnel. From the rear came men, women and children from all ages, destined in making it through the hard slog and onto their ultimate goal.

After a group Scottish breakfast, photos of the Artizans were taken on the return journey at the ancient and famous Dumbarton Castle where again photo opportunities were taken by visitors from around the world.

The Artizans then left for the hallowed grounds at the river Leven, where we set up camp, offering our brave foot soldiers a well earned water and treatment stop and a chance to be fixed up by travelling first -aid workers. To lift their tired spirits, local piper Nicola Gray filled their hearts with well known Scottish tunes

. As the hours past our tired kilties began to filter in, then came groups arriving as the hours past then finishing off with tired souls receiving needy encouragement from our Artizans, which they really appreciated. The Artizans were steadfast in their convictions and staying until the last man or woman passed hours later. For the walkers and most of the Artizans the night wasn’t yet over.

Refreshments and a get together at Lomond Shores and Balloch would see the great day out. In helping the tired and fatigued, our own Ted Christopher was performing into the wee small hours. A huge than you and congratulations goes out to all the Artizans for their effort in making this a very successful and eventful day. We are too may to mention but we know who we are. A fantastic group effort and one for the history books. Once again thank you to local piper Nicola Gray.

By Paul Hunter