LANARK LANIMER DAY
An ancient celebration held within the Royal Burgh of Lanark on the Thursday between the Sixth and Twelfth days of June annually since the year 1140.
 

Lanimer Friends

From 1995 to 2000 the Balbardie Primary School Floats were an added attraction in the Lanimer Procession. Puss in Boots was the first, followed by King Kong, Treasure Island, Snow White, Beauty and the Beast and finally Mary Poppins. All were spectacular but who could forget King Kong. In appreciation we include this tribute to the late Mr Alex Gardner and his dedicated team. The two photographs are of Puss in Boots.

Alex Gardner, Died 12 January 2001

Sadly, my much loved brother passed away suddenly in January last year. One of the legacies which he leaves behind, is that of the Balbardie Primary School Float, which has adorned the Bathgate procession every year since 1972.

It all began with my father, also named Alex, who, before retirement, was the janitor at Balbardie Primary School. With a small but dedicated band of helpers, the float very quickly became an important and much awaited part of the procession. When my father retired in 1988, Alex took over leadership of the float preparations.

We hold many fond memories of the float and our rush to get it finished in time. It is said in Bathgate, that the Balbardie Float always stands out from the others - it is the only one that still smells of fresh paint on the morning of the procession! More often than not, the workers camped out on the night before the procession, adding the last minute touches to their masterpiece.

Being a part of the Lanimer Day celebrations was always one of my brother's ambitions. He was absolutely delighted when the float was asked to take part, and astounded by the warm reception it received from the people of Lanark. I remember we felt very much in awe of the "native floats" and all the hard work which had gone into them.

Following Alex's death, my family have decided that after 29 years, and many happy memories, the time has come to end our involvement with the float. Some of its faithful workers have continued its existence, and it can still be seen in and around the towns of West Lothian during the summer months.

I wish everyone in Lanark a very happy Lanimer Day both in 2002 and in the years to come.

Yours,
Mary McFarlane