Heritage society's live broadcast brings back memories of Thurso in the 1950s
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A LITTLE bit of history was created by Thurso Heritage Society when it made its first live broadcast which had viewers in the UK, America, Canada and Australia.
The archive film footage from the late 1950s focused on the changes that occurred in Thurso with the advent of the nuclear power plant at Dounreay and featured the views of people who came to work and live in the area. They spoke about the town, the shops and facilities, while the locals recalled their new colleagues and neighbours who were known as the "atomics".
Society chairman Alan McIvor came up with the idea and thought it might go down well at a time when so much of the world is affected by coronavirus restrictions. The 30-minute film was shown over the internet on the society's website.
Mr McIvor was delighted with the response. "I must admit I was slightly anxious as we had not done this before and when you have people setting their alarms to tune in from America, Canada and Australia you don't want them getting up in the early hours for nothing," he said.
But he need not have worried. "The footage went down a real treat, with a couple of expats saying they were watching it through tears as it brought back so many memories of home. To hear something like that makes it worthwhile for the committee.
"Our treasurer, Alan Coghill, mentioned there were around 350 views, so it was an excellent turnout.
"I may do something similar again, especially in these times with the lockdown. I think people appreciated it more.
"I plan to reshow the film in the next week or two as a few people missed it. Some people gave us donations after to help with the running of the charity, which was really appreciated."
One expatriate, Morven Fairlie Bancroft, said: "I have been living in Texas for almost 22 years and the Thurso Heritage Society page has been a fantastic way to make me feel I'm still connected to Thurso. I watched the film with a cup of tea in my hand and a lump in my throat.
"My parents were 'atomics' – they moved to Thurso in 1961 – and this film gave me great insight into how life must have been for them. It was great seeing old shots of the town and hearing the Caithness accent combined with the incomers' accents.
"Alan has done an amazing job with this page, the old photos, the recordings of local legends that are now long gone – just fascinating to see and hear.
"I am particularly enjoying the old gala queen and attendant photos just now. It is bringing back a heap of memories.
"I was in the Thurso Players and we had many great times building our floats. I've also reconnected with some old friends via this page, people that I haven't seen in years. I look forward to seeing many more pictures and films."
Another, Kay Allan-Tapia, said: "I am from Thurso but have lived in Canada for 30 years. Thoroughly enjoy getting all the craic on the Thurso Heritage page. Lots of lovely memories, photos and stories.
"I've learned more about Thurso history on here than I ever did at school. Alan has done such a wonderful job keeping us all connected. I have reconnected with people from all over the world who I never would have found."
