Menstrie welcomes visitors from Nova Scotia

Jamie MacDonald • Published 16 Sep 2009 14:20 0 Comments

DELEGATES from Nova Scotia returned to Menstrie last week to strengthen bonds, promote business links and honour one of their colleagues.

As part of Clackmannanshire's Homecoming celebrations the Canadians returned to the village where Sir William Alexander, the founder of their province, originated from.

During their time in the county the Canadians visited Sir William's former home at Menstrie Castle and took part in a ceremony at Menstrie Gardens, which will be renamed Nova Scotia Gardens.

Cindy Baker, the widow of Canadian Minister Michael Baker, planted a maple tree and unveiled a plaque in memory of her husband who was instrumental in establishing the link between Nova Scotia and Clackmannanshire.

They were also treated to a whisky tasting session, kilt making class and buffet lunch in the Dumyat Centre on Friday.

Ian Russell, who emigrated from Menstrie four years ago, told the Advertiser, "The trip has been brilliant and has gone way better than we anticipated.

"There are business opportunities between the two areas driven by the economy and it has to work two ways as partners.

"We can look at the opportunities that present themselves together.

"Provost Derek Stewart has been very supportive and we would look to invite some business, tourism people and politicians across to Nova Scotia."

Canadian Police Inspector David Brown certainly stood out from the crowd during the visit. Dressed in the ceremonial Mountie outfit he caused great excitement by stopping in to visit Menstrie Primary, although, the pupils were disappointed he left his horse at home.

He said, "We are over to have our own home coming in a way. I was intrigued by the visit to Menstrie Castle, it's more of a fortress in style to what I expected.

"I have been over before and it is good to be back strengthening the links."

Menstrie Primary pupils Hannah Allan and Jade Connolly had been involved in showing the visitors around their school.

Hannah said, "They really liked the wind turbine and the adventure trail."

Jade added, "They were very interested to see the way we work and I would love to get to see Nova Scotia."

Provost Derek Stewart said, "There is a special bond between Menstrie, Clackmannanshire and Nova Scotia. The visit has been a great success and helped to cement the relationship."

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