Heritage railway event launches new book celebrating historic Banffshire
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The Spirit of Banffshire book which celebrates the historic area during the Queen's Platinum Jubilee year was on the right track for its official launch.
Nearly 100 people from across the area travelled on the Keith and Dufftown Railway Association train for the special event.
The Banffshire Memories Project was launched in 2020, shortly before the start of lockdown.
Its aim was to collect contributions from people living in historic Banffshire, covering the period of the life and reign of Her Majesty The Queen.
They have been collated into the book which features 150 stories. Topics include memorable events, including royal visits; the workplace; school; extreme weather; childhood and many more.
It was compiled and edited by Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire Andrew Simpson and Eleanor Gillespie, a postgraduate history student from Elgin, with the support of the Banffshire Field Club.
Mr Simpson said: "The book has been produced to mark the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen and contains memories of life in our area over the last 90 years. Thank you to all who contributed.
"Many thanks also to the wonderful people at the Sidings Café in Dufftown for the catering and amazing cake."
The Keith and Dufftown Railway Association train's seats were taken by many of the contributors and their guests.
Mr Simpson added: "People make the place. By reflecting on different aspects of their lives and communities, contributors have given an exciting insight into the last 90 years in historic Banffshire.
"Many have also reflected on the changes that they have witnessed. I am very grateful to all who have shared something of themselves and their memories.
"That The Spirit of Banffshire has been published just now is a fitting way in which the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen can be marked.
"The stories give a wonderful reflection of life in our area throughout the time of her life and reign."
Copies of the book are available from many local outlets with all profits going to local charities. To check where it can be purchased visit www.lordlieutenantbanffshire.co.uk
They are also able to be posted to people by contacting banffshirememories@gmail.com
