ONE of the most famous pieces of art in the world has provided the inspiration for a unique heritage centre.

Michelangelo's renowned painted ceiling in Rome's Sistine Chapel, ictured right, is behind what has become known as the Bannockburn Ceiling in the new Robert the Bruce Heritage Centre, in Renton.

Michelangelo's renowned painted ceiling in Rome's Sistine Chapel, pictured right, is behind what has become known as the Bannockburn Ceiling in the new Robert the Bruce Heritage Centre, in Renton.

The colourful ceiling, in Renton Train Station, will be made up of wooden panels painted with images of four generals who fought alongside Bruce against King Edward II of England in the famous 1314 battle, "and sent him homeward tae think again".

It will also include eight clan crests.

Duncan Brown, the artist behind the eye-catching creation, hopes that it can become a major attraction at the facility, to help educate people about the links between the former King of Scotland and the area.

And Duncan has revealed that he was eager to help out the Strathleven Artizans, in promoting Scottish history, and is looking forward to seeing how the completed ceiling looks.

The 59-year-old told the Reporter: "When it is finished, it is going to be quite a monument to the brave men who fought for Scotland in the past.

"I just thought that I could do something a bit different, and use the ceiling instead of the walls."

He added: "So I suppose it's like my own wee version of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel - and hopefully when it is up, it will be there long after I'm gone."

By Mike Farrell Dumbarton Reporter 22-09-2009

No mention of area's significant links to King

A BROCHURE aimed at attracting tourists to some of the most notable historic sites in Scotland has been blasted as being "totally incomplete" by Robert the Bruce enthusiasts.

Duncan Thomson, chairman of Strathleven Artizans, is disgusted that there is not one mention of the King's strong links to Dumbarton in the historical background provided on the guide.

Launched as part of the Homecoming celebrations, the Following in the Family Footsteps pamphlet guides visitors to key sites associated with famous Scots families, including the Bruces.

Duncan told the Reporter: "The most important part of Robert the Bruce's history is not even acknowledged in this latest tourist brochure - it's appalling.

"These people do not seem to understand that this trail is totally incomplete.

"How pathetic is it that Cardross is not even mentioned anywhere in the information they are putting out there."

It is believed that the mains of Cardross, which is in the modern day Renton, is the exact location of the Royal Manor of Robert the Bruce and he lived on this land until his death on June 7 1329.

The King's internal organs are also thought likely to be buried in St Serf's church, in Levengrove Park, which provides another strong link to the area.

Despite no mention of these connections in the brochure - which was produced by Historic Scotland, the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Houses Association - it has been claimed that it is only meant to "whet people's appetite" for the country's amazing history.

From the Dumbarton Reporter 18-09-2009

Swords,dirks and other pointy things!

 Whilst agreeing that the above items are part of the traditional highland dress and we would have no wish to ban them entirely, we, the undersigned, agree that we have to take a responsible stance on the wearing and display of these weapons.
  In our role in educating the young generation of Scots we have to make very clear the historical aspect as opposed to being "tooled up". We cannot be seen in any way to be glorifying the knife carrying culture which is sadly blighting our society.
 It has to be said that although blades have never been drawn in anger at any of our events we are very aware of the possibility of an accident, especially in confined spaces. With safety the paramount consideration, we have decided that  with immediate effect we can no longer allow blades to be carried at indoor events. We acknowledge that these functions often immediately follow commemorations when traditional weaponry will be worn, but believe it  shouldn't prove too much of an inconvenience to lock them safely in a vehicle during the social festivities.

For Scotland,

Crann Tara
The Society of William Wallace
Ted Christopher and Bannockburn
Strathleven Artizans
Paisley Tartan Army

The Artizans made several props and equipment as well as assisting on the set for the making of the film Valhall Rising, the first screening is for the cast's and crew on Monday the 29th June in Glasgow which we will be attending.

Should be a good night

Strathleven Artizans had a surprise phone call from GWS Barrow, the world foremost authority on King Robert the Bruce and Medieval history.

He was delighted to hear the news of the possible location of the foundations to the late King’s manor house at Dalquhurn in Renton.

He encourage Duncan and the Artizans to continue our quest for answers in relation to our medieval history and was excited about our findings so far.

It was indeed an honour to hear from Prof  Barrow and we thank him for his time and encouragement.
Hopefully he will come and visit us in the near future he would be most welcome.
Thank you Sir………………….

Great Gathering July 25th-26th July 2009

Strathleven Artizans have been giving the great honour of fronting the Bruce Family tent at the great Gathering in Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh.

The theme will be King Robert the Bruce’s Manor House (Manorium) in Pillinflatt.
How and why KRB chose to live here, how he lived and died what the manor looked like etc.

We need as many of you Bowmen to support this event as possible as this is what it’s all about being a Bowman, supporting the Bruce Family and doing them, KRB and us justice.
More details on member’s page…………….

Thanks Bro’s and sister’s     your F-Bo     Jim