What We Do In The Winter

This episode is a conversation with Mary McMillan of Tobermory. We discuss Mary's family life, life at Newdale outside of Tobermory, some of the characters she remembers from her youth, a remarkable tale about something that washed up on the shore, the skull in the Western Isles, Aleister Crowley, school brutality and so, so much more.  Episode links and more can be found at whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

A collection of local news clippings that show how VE Day was marked on the Isle of Mull, presented in a 1940's news reel style.

This episode is a conversation with Davie Hewitt of Tobermory. Born in Wales, Davie spent the first part of his life in and around Ammanford and Abergeron, eventually coming to live in Tobermory where he has been resident for many years. We talk about so much in this episode, Davie has so many tales to tell. Some of the things we look at are his childhood, the love and care his Grandmother expressed for him, bombings during the 2nd World War, coffin design and manufacture, his military service, the gang culture of Liverpool, his work in the forestry here on Mull, the difficulties of finding housing and so much more. For links and more please visit whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening! Photo of Davie with thanks to Derwyn Hewitt.

This episode is a conversation with Hugh Boa, who farms at Antuim, here in Dervaig in the North of Mull. I've wanted to speak to Hugh since What We Do in the Winter started, so I'm delighted to be able to share this episode with you. Our conversation covers all sorts of ground. We talk about people of the island in the past, different farming cultures on different estates, family members, the decline of Gaelic, the horror of Gruinard Island, the Salen Show and so much more. There is some exceptionally fine swearing in this episode, so do be warned. Hugh also doesn't hold back on his take on the reintroduction of Sea Eagles, which is very interesting to hear. At about 45 minutes in we eat some mince pies, sorry if this causes anyone to feel nauseous, but they were too good to resist – they were my wife's homemade frangipani ones. If you're listening as this episode goes out, a very happy Christmas to you! Episode links and more can be found on whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

This episode is a conversation with Alison and Angus Johnston of Iona. Many listeners will know Alison and Angus from their time running the Columba Hotel on Iona. We talk about their lives before Iona, with memories of life in Dublin and an amazing account of the WW2 victory parade in Edinburgh, then come to talk about life on the island and the characters of the past, the loss of Gaelic on the island, hopes for the future and finally we talk about what it is that so many people feel so drawn to Iona by and what it means to them. Episode links and more on whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

This episode is a conversation with Christine Leach of Balevulin, Tiroran. Originally from near Portsmouth, Christine has lived on Mull for many years. Christine runs Pennyghael in the Past Historical Archive. PPHA is a remarkable archive full of the most interesting materials that shines light onto the history of Brolas and its surrounds. I've always found Brolas here on Mull to be a very tricky area to define. There are Macleans of Duart, Lochbuie and Brolas, Duart and Lochbuie are easy enough to locate in your mind, but Brolas less so. It is for that reason and many more, that I wanted to talk with Christine. Christine's book Hebridean Healers, about the medieval Beaton family, who were located at Pennycross is out now and very much worth your while. It's a great resource to explore Mull's past. Christine was joined by Andrea Cameron, Elizabeth Carter and Miek Zwambourn in the writing of the book. We also talk about Christine's journey to coming to live on Mull, what brought her here and how it swiftly began to feel like home. There are many names mentioned from that past that I know many listeners will be delighted to hear again. Christine has given me loads of photos to help illustrate her story, so do have a look at whatwedointhewinter.com for episode links and more info. Thanks for listening!

This episode is a conversation with Allan and Cameron Maclean of Tobermory. Cameron and Allan are brothers, Cameron born in Tobermory and Allan on Tiree. I've wanted to speak these gentlemen for quite a time, so to finally get a moment to spend time together was very special. We talk about so much in this episode. Places of the past, people of the past of both Mull and Tiree, fishing practice and fishermen. There's a lot to take in. For episode notes and more please visit whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

In this, the 78th episode of WWDitW, Anda Campbell shares some time with us to talk about his life. We talk about his childhood in Bunessan, his family life, members of the Bunessan community of the past, tales of adventure crossing snowdrifts to help out cabinet ministers, the musical visitors to the Arms, sport on the island, his involvement in the Rally and much, much more. For episode links and more please visit whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

A special live episode about the Mull Rally, a car rally that started on the island in 1969. As Alasdair doesn't know too much about this subject he invited Duncan Brown, who spoke to us for episode 56, to host the episode. This episode was recorded on Zoom. For photos from the history of the rally and other links, please visit the whatwedointhewinter.com for more information. Thanks for listening!

A conversation with John Pirie about Skerryvore and lighthouses. Dr John Holliday of the Hynish Trust and Alasdair Satchel of What We Do in the Winter talk with John Pirie, retired lighthouse engineer about Skerryvore lighthouse and the culture of working in manned lighthouses. Recorded at An Iodhlann, Tiree, June 2024 I'm putting this out as a side episode of What We Do in the Winter, so there's no introduction or music. Thanks for tuning in, happy listening!

This episode is a conversation with Gail Struthers. Gail hails from the Hillfoots, the villages and towns around the foot of the Ochil Hills, near Stirling. She's lived on Mull for many years now and has worked principally in catering in hotels and cafes in the North of the Island. She currently works at Bowman Court and our local hospital in Craignure. Our conversation takes us through Gail's childhood, her working life and travels away from the island, her life here on Mull, including her time running the Glengorm Café, where I first met her, and then into her passion for reading. For links and more please visit whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

This episode is a conversation with Eilidh Young. Originally from Penmore in North West Mull, Eilidh lives in Lochdon, where she was the head of Lochdonhead Primary for many years. Our conversation brings the North of Mull to life during the second world war, so much so that we'll hear what the infamous Lord Haw Haw, Nazi Propogandist on ‘Germany Calling' had to say to the people of Tobermory one evening. Eilidh has tales of herself and her father, her training in Edinburgh at Moray House, her work as a teacher in St Neots, Murihouse and of course here on Mull. Eilidh and I spoke in December in the midst of a great big storm, which you'll hear in the background to our chat. Image of Eilidh Young courtesy of Meriel Young, with thanks! Thanks for listening! Episode notes and more can be found on whatwedointhewinter.com

This episode is a talk between Seamas Carey of The Reason Why podcast and me, Alasdair Satchel, of What We Do in the Winter which explores the nature of our podcasting work. Seamas' podcast The Reason Why was released in the spring of 2022. It consists of 10 themed episodes and two live episodes which round the project off. It explores the social issues, hidden history and culture wars of contemporary Cornwall. What We Do in the Winter is an oral history podcast about the lives of the people of the Isles of Mull, Iona, Ulva, Gometra, Erraid and Little Colonsay. The conversation you're about to hear took place in An Tobar, Tobermory on the 4th of October 2023 in front of a live audience. It came about thanks to Rona Dougall and Nina Pope where were at the time of recording the curators of the visual arts programme at An Tobar Mull Theatre. Sound at the event was by Louise Gregory and Tim Olden. Episode links and more can be found on whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

A very happy Christmas to you! This episode is a conversation with Banjo and Ro Beale. Banjo and Ro originally hail from Australia but have settled just outside of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. Ro is one of the masterminds behind the distillery at Isle of Mull Cheese, and Banjo is a celebrated interior designer, whose work you may have seen in Interior Design Masters, his own series Designing the Hebrides and whose book Wild Isle Style is available from all good bookshops. We cover so many topics in this episode as Banjo and Ro talk about their lives and adventures. To donate to Banjo and Ro's work in Nepal, please drop a line to: ahoy@banjobeale.co.uk Photo of Banjo & Ro by Lisa McKenna For more information please see the episode links on whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening! All the best to you for 2024!

This episode is a conversation with Donald Macgillivray of Pennygown. We talk about his childhood, go way back into his family history, talk about drove roads and the last cattle drove off Iona to Falkirk, the changes he's seen in agricultural practice over his career, his work with Highland cattle, abandoned villages and places long forgotten, his dear friend – the late and much missed Hugh MacPhail and so, so much more. Episode links and more can be found on our website at whatwedointhewinter.com It's this sort of knowledge that passes so swiftly if it's not passed on and I am deeply indebted to Donald for his time and sincerity in sharing these stories with me. Thanks for listening!

This episode is a chat with Cressida Cowell, author of the How To Train Your Dragon books, the Wizards of Once series and Which Way to Anywhere. Cressida grew up in London where her Dad, Michael Hare, had significant roles in several well known organisations. In the 1970's Michael bought the island of Little Colonsay, which lies between Ulva and Staffa, which was to become the family's summer home. The island, it's history, topography and setting had a profound affect on young Cressida's imagination and her summers would be spent in a reverie of story making, listening to the tales her Dad would tell her of the people of these islands' past. These experiences lead to Cressida becoming an author, and not just any author. Her works have been translated into 38 languages and sold tens of millions of copies around the world. There are film and tv adaptations of her work. In our time together we talked about her childhood memories of Little Colonsay and the people who helped her family to build their home there. We talk about her father and his love of nature. We explore the impact that the island had on her imagination, and how that lead to her career. Cressida goes on to talk about her maternal Grandfather, Alan Hare, and his experiences in the 2nd World War in Albania and how that generation of people influenced her writing. We then talk about the importance of the natural world and the nature of climate change. I owe a big thank you to my dear friend Colin Morrison for putting me in contact with Cressida. Colin and his family run Turus Mara, which, departing from Ulva Ferry, to my mind, is the best way to see Staffa, Fingal's Cave and to meet the puffins on Lunga for some puffin therapy. See the links in the episode notes for more details. Most importantly of all though at the end of this episode Cressida kindly took the time to answer three questions from Lachlan, one of her young readers who lives in Dervaig, who sent me some questions to ask. Thanks for listening! Episode links and more on whatwedointhewinter.com

This episode is a conversation with Anne Scott about Java and Craignure from the late 1940's and into the 1950's. Anne grew up in Falkirk, lived in Edinburgh for many years and now resides in Largs. Alexander Maclachlan, Anne's Grandfather, was the head gardener at Java Lodge. Anne offers up insights into the communities around Craignure in the mid part of the last century and the arrival of the folk from Soay to Java. Anne is an academic, who is still teaching to this day, she's been a broadcaster working with Radio Scotland, featuring on the wonderful Jimmy MacGregor's programmes and she's also an author. Her book, 18 Bookshops is an absolute delight. If, like me, you're a bit of a bibliophile, then this is the book you've been waiting for! Many listeners will also know the work of Anne's son, Mike Scott of the Waterboys, whose music has brought a lot of joy to millions of listeners. Links and more can be found on our website at whatwedointhewinter.com Thank you for listening!

This episode is a conversation with Cameron Fletcher. Born in Fanmore, Torloisk, Cameron tells us tales of his school life on the island and away in Oban. He talks about a wide variety of characters from his youth, then goes on to tell us about his working life here and away in Argyll and Perthshire. Cameron offers up a unique take on life growing up on the island that I know will really connect with many listeners. Episodes links and more can be found on our website at whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

This episode is a conversation with Andrew Macfarlane of Glen Aros. Aged 81 he has lived all his life here on the island, starting off at Tiroran, moving to Pennygown, then onto Salen and to Glen Aros. His family hale from the Isles of Gometra and Coll. We cover a great number of subjects in our chat including childhood memories of Coll, the people around him here on Mull as he grew up, his schooling in Gribun, elements of the second sight which, Gaelic language and culture, farming Aberdeen Angus and so much more. We recorded our conversation at the Glen Aros road end, where you can often find Andy sat in his jeep watching the world go by. For links to the topics covered and more info please visit whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening! I'll update the website tomorrow. It's quarter past one and I'd quite like to go to my bed. If you're seeing this text as it goes out, hello to you, I hope you're well! (this text will be edited out when the website is updated)

This episode is a conversation with Alastair McIsaac Maclean of Tobermory.
 Alastair is 84 years old and lives at the back of Tobermory main street in a building which used to be a bakery, where he worked as a young boy.  Our chat we cover his early years in Tobermory and Bridge of Weir, memories of Aros House and the delights of the walled garden, life on the pier in Oban, being wrecked in the Sound of Islay, bands and comedians of the past who paid a visit to Tob, his national service, the construction of Craignure pier, his work on fishing boats and much, much more. 
Episode notes and more can be found on whatwedointhewinter.com 
 Thank you for listening!

In this episode I speak with Nick Holmes of Aros Mains. Nick tells us tales of his life and interests, his travels and adventures in the UK, France and America. Thanks for listening! For links and more info, please visit whatwedointhewinter.com

This episode is a conversation with Neil Jardine of Iona, a fisherman who runs Iona Seafood, a fantastic local business providing both the local and international markets. We talk about Neil's early life on Iona, his adventures away in Australia, the development of his working practice and how he balances his family and work lives. Thanks for listening! For links and more info, please visit whatwedointhewinter.com The HPMA Consultation - Islands Federation Draft Response can be found here: https://www.scottish-islands-federation.co.uk/draft-response-to-hpma-consultation/

This episode is a conversation about the salmon fishing station at Camas in the Ross of Mull. It features Sheena Walker, Mary-Anne MacDonald, Kirsty Lord, Sandy Brunton, Gregor Cameron, and Douglas Canning. All of whom are part of the MacInnes family, who ran the fishing. This podcast was recorded both as a podcast and as research for the film Creel of Stories – Cliabh an t-Seanachais, which tells the story of fishing cultures in the Ross of Mull and Iona. Our conversation was recorded on Zoom, which means that the sound is a bit glitchy here and there, for which I apologise. Episode links and more can be found at https://whatwedointhewinter.com/2022/12/14/66-salmon-fishing-at-camas/ Creel of Stories - Cliabh an t-Seanachais can be found on this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-whCCTBk3QY&t=28s Thanks for listening!

This episode features a conversation between Anne MacGregor, Iain Campbell, Jean MacLean and Mabel Canning, who all grew up near Salen. We talk about so many subjects – where people's families came from, social activities of the past, village halls gone by, Mabel's mum – Doctor Flora, the songs of Archie MacLean - also known as Wobbles, the brief presence of a very dark soul, the serial killer, Manuel on the island, superstitions, ghost stories, working lives and so, so much more. For links and more please visit whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

This episode is a chat with Gremlin Napier of Fanmore, in the North West of Mull. Gremlin came to Mull in the late 70's and has been here since then, with interludes for adventures in Africa. Our conversation covers a lot of ground. We talk about the origin of his name, the incredible work of his parents, his school days, life in the 60's and 70's and the people who he met in the area when he moved to the island. There's a couple of trigger warnings for you with this episode. Our conversation features strong language, in fact some of the finest swearing I've heard in a long time, references to dead bodies at about 10 minutes into the episode and references to the smoking of marijuana. I'm so chuffed to share this conversation with you, we recorded it over a year ago and I've been only just managed to sit down and edit it to get it to you. Gremlin has one of the most beautiful voices you could wish to hear, it's been an absolute delight to spend time with his words again. For links and more please visit www.whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

This episode is a little bit different from previous episodes.  It's a lecture given by Lachlan (Lachie) MacLean, Lachie Knock, to the Mull Historical Society in the 1980's. The lecture has the loose title of Tales From the Glen.  Lachie talks about the origins of the clan MacLean, the struggle to keep the Gaelic language and culture alive, Glen Forsa and Glen Cannel, place names, local story tellers of his youth in Loch Buie and so, so much more.  
This recording comes from the archive of Donald MacLean, Donald Langamull, which was bequeathed to Mull Museum in Tobermory. I'm releasing this recording on the main stream of What We Do in the Winter as I think it would be of interest to so many of our listeners.  The rest of Donald Langamull's archive will be released over the coming years in partnership with Mull Museum and can be found on both the WWDitW sound cloud and main webpage.    Thanks for listening! 
whatwedointhewinter.com

In this episode I talk with Giuliana Mercorio Ashford of Tobermory. Giuliana's life started off in the town of Maddaloni, near Naples in Italy, where she grew up during the second world war. After the war her family moved to South Africa. She then moved to Washington DC, London and then to the Isle of Mull. Thank you for listening! For more info, please visit: https://whatwedointhewinter.com/ What We Do in the Archive - epsiode 1: https://whatwedointhewinter.com/2022/06/20/wwdita-01-mary-morrison-education-and-social-life-in-the-19th-century/

In this special Christmas episode I talk with Brigadier John Macfarlane who grew up in Tobermory during WW2, where his family ran Macfarlane's the shop on the main street. We talk about life in Tobermoryin World War 2, the roots of his family and how they came to live on Mull, the founding of Tobermory Distillery, the characters of his youth, we hear a remarkable tale about life on the Isle of Lunga, and discuss the nature of Gaelic in the Tobermory of his youth. A very merry christmas to you if you're listening as the episode goes out! Episode links and more can be found at whatwedointhewinter.com If you've enjoyed this episode and were able to and wanted to support the podcast, this month could we ask you to consider a donation towards our local foodbank, Mull and Iona Pantry, which can be found here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mullandionapantry Any support is much appreciated, thank you. Thanks so much for listening! Nollaig Chridheil dhut!

This episode is a conversation with Harry Hickford of Tobermory. Harry comes originally from the Scottish borders where he worked on the land, particularly as a horsieman. He came to Mull to run Erray Farm for Colonel Anderson. We talk about his time growing up in the borders, a little about borders identity, then his move to Mull, who the characters were when he first came here, how he found life on the island, the changes in agricultural practice that he's seen over the course of his life and much more besides. We also hear a ghost story... This is a conversation that I've wanted to have for a very long time, so it was just brilliant to get to spend time with Harry. What We Do in the Winter is sponsored by Island Bakery, and, in particular, their delicious Lemon Melts. For links and more episodes please feel free to visit our website on whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

In this episode I talk with Charlotte Mellis of Larach Mhòr, near Treshnish. 

 Charlotte's family have had a home on Mull since the 1950's. Her father was in the Navy when she was wee so she grew up between Mull, Malta and Greece. 

Charlotte is a noted potter who owns the Tin Shed gallery, where you can see both her work and exhibitions by herself and others throughout the course of the year. 

She hails from a family of renowned artists including her aunties Margaret Mellis and Ann Stokes.
 Our conversation goes straight in at the deep end with discussions about the nature of privilege and trying to find a niche in life. We then talk about her family, how she developed her skills as a potter, her rock and roll past and how she met Athol, to whom she's been married for 30 years and then we talk about why she loves life here on Mull. 
 For links and more please visit whatwedointhewinter.com

 Thanks for listening!

This episode is a conversation with Carla Lamont of Fionnphort. Carla originally hails from Canada and chose to come and work in Scotland, starting off on Iona, before coming across to Fionnphort where she and her husband John run the remarkable 9th Wave restaurant.

As well as running a very successful restaurant, you may know Carla from her recent appearances on Master Chef – the Professionals. 

Our conversation takes in her youth in different parts of Canada and then we go on to talk about her love of playing pool – and that’s how she met John in the Keel Row in Fionnphort, we then talk about how they established the restaurant, what’s special about the 9th Wave, her performance poetry career, her work in radio, her appearances on Master Chef and lots more beside. 

As this episode was recorded over Zoom there are odd crackles and pops here and there, for which I apologise. Photo of Carla by Sam Jones. This episode is lovingly dedicated to the memory of Iain MacKinnon Thank you for listening. Episode links and more on: https://whatwedointhewinter.com/2021/05/07/58-carla-lamont/

In this episode I talk with Dawn Reade of Tobermory. Dawn comes originally from Belfast in Northern Ireland. We talk about growing up in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, her family, her choice to come and study in Edinburgh, the relative attractiveness of people in rural as opposed to urban settings, the development of the Island Bakery business, how international market trends affect a rural business such as theirs and so much more. Dawn and I were able to record this at my house when the covid restrictions were lifted back in September 2020. Towards the end of the episode Dawn goes into more detail on some of the darker parts of life in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, just a wee heads up so as not to cause any distress. It was so great to catch up with Dawn, I miss not getting to see my pals in person. For links and more please visit whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening, I hope you're well and happy wherever you are. Nice to see the sun coming back now that the spring is on the way. I'm not sure if anyone ever reads this far in these bits.

In this episode I talk with Duncan Brown, formerly of Tobermory. Duncan talks about growing up in Tobermory in the 70’s and 80’s and the role that sports, scouting and more played in his youth. We talk about football, Bogie racing, The Rally and lots more. Duncan gives a great account of what it’s like to be in a Rally car, the sensations and smells – he paints such a clear picture, it’s a delight to hear. We then go on to talk about Duncan’s working life in Engineering, his training and travels. At certain points in the episode you can hear my family running around in the background getting up to stuff, sorry about that, I hope it’s not too distracting. Duncan and I were able to record this at my house when the covid restrictions were lifted. It was so nice to be sat together chatting, I long to get back to those days. If you’re listening to this as it goes out on Thursday the 21st of January 2021, we’ve got a WWDitW live event online on Zoom tomorrow at 20.00 with the focus on sport. If you want to join us you can get tickets for free on this link. More details can be found on social media. Interestingly, I think this is the first 2nd generation episode of the podcast, as I’ve previously spoken to Duncan’s Mum, Olive Brown, back in episode 13! Thanks for listening!

In this episode I talk with Iain MacKinnon of Tobermory. If you’re listening to this on its day of release, a very happy Christmas to you! Iain talks about his family roots here on the island, and connections to Tiree.
We talk about characters from the past, with Iain bringing their memory to life by telling stories that they told him. There are tales of the First World War, Ireland in the 20’s and more passed on from the mouths of MacGochan and others. 
We talked together one evening with Ishbel, Iain’s wife joining us for little bits of the conversation. It was so lovely to speak to both of them, I think I may have to chap their virtual door again some day soon to hear Ishbel’s tales, too! 
We caught up again a few days later to chat about Iain’s role in the Fire Brigade. So you’ll hear a bit of a leap as we talk about Gibby towards the end of the episode, which then leads us to talk about Iain’s long standing service in the Fire Brigade. There’s a couple of bits that I’ve not included in the episode, which I’ll put out as a short special at some point in the coming weeks, once the festive season has passed. 

At a couple of points you can hear bits of background noise in the recording, as we were recording over Zoom, due to the current situation. So please excuse this. 

 Back in episode 9 of the podcast Iain Performed a pitch invasion while I was talking to Janet MacDonald. I think I said “I’m coming to get you…” Well, 45 episodes later, here we are, at long last.
 For links and more information please visit whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening! Have a lovely Christmas!

In this episode I talk with Hannah Fisher of Kintra in the Ross of Mull. Originally from Dunkeld, Hannah is a musician who has toured the world with bands including Idlewild and King Creosote, whilst also having a fantastic solo career as one of the most interesting fiddle players and composers around at this moment in time. I’m delighted to say that Hannah has let us have two pieces of music to play in this episode! Thank you Hannah! Our conversation takes us back through her childhood, the roots of her musical adventures, her career adventures to date and how Mull and Kintra in particular has become home. Check out whatwedointhewinter.com for links and photos/ To take part in the survey please follow this link: https://forms.gle/M9qtS1JE4ZxX8cvD8 Thanks for listening!

This episode is a chat with textile artist Shirley Pinder. Shirley grew up in Tobermory where her Mother and Father ran Strongarbh House and the Gallery on the Main Street, where they sold various things including materials woven by her father and herself. Shirley brings her childhood and family clearly to life while also giving us a very fine picture of how her own career developed along with bringing up her family. Shirley’s given me lots of photos and other bits and bobs for the website so do check them out along with the episode links on whatwedointhewinter.com We've made a short listener survey to find out how people engage with WWDitW which will also help us to find ways to grow the podcast. If you've got a couple of minutes spare we'd be very grateful to hear from you on the link below. Thank you! https://forms.gle/YThUZhQCb72myJFd6 Thanks for listening!

I’m absolutely delighted to say that this episode is a chat with Judy Gibson of the Isle of Erraid. Erraid is a tidal island off of the Ross of Mull, with a remarkable and long history. Judy and I chatted at the start of lockdown over the internet on a fairly poor line, which cut out several times. Our conversation covers a lot of ground. We talk about how her family first came to holiday on Iona and then onto Erraid, where her mother chose to settle. We talk about Judy’s life and adventures and go into detail about Erraid’s remarkable history. Thanks for listening! Episode Links: https://whatwedointhewinter.com/2020/08/21/52-judy-gibson/

COMING SOON: *WWDitW Live@Home* - Friday 31st July 19.30 on Zoom - follow our social media for a link to the event!
 This is a short bonus episode of What We Do in the Winter which features an episode of the American Years Revisited podcast.
At the height of the Cuban missile crisis the USS Proteus left the Holy Loch outside of Dunoon in a great hurry, where it was at the heart of the US nuclear defence system. The seas were so rough that she had to seek refuge in Tobermory Bay. 

In this episode Gerry Pursley shares his experience of working in the engine room at the eye of the storm as problem after problem built on each other, whilst outside the world was facing one of the most critical moments in contemporary history.

I (Alasdair) produce the American Years Revisited podcast, where I work with the brilliant team of Kate Simpson & Ann Campbell along with our amazing reminiscence group to capture memories of life in Dunoon and the surrounds around the time of the American presence in the Holy Loch. It’s a period that’s getting further and further away so the work of the American Years group is trying to capture the human elements of the story before they come to pass. If you’re interested in the area, the subject or that point of time do follow the podcast. It’s also worth checking out Andrene Messersmith’s brilliant book - The American Years: Dunoon & the US Navy
 For links and more please visit: https://whatwedointhewinter.com/2020/07/28/wwditw-american-years-crossover-episode-the-cuban-missile-crisis/ See also the American Years Revisited podcast on: https://www.mixcloud.com/AmericanYearsRevisited/ Thanks for listening!

Episode 51 - WWDitW Live @Dervaig Village Hall on the 6th of March 2020. This episode is a recording of a live event that we had at Dervaig Village Hall on Saturday the 7th of March 2020. The topics covered in this episode include: Dervaig Village Hall in the Past; a live performance of a play featuring lots of local people at Calgary Bay in 1993, Movies Made on Mull and Delivery vans.
At the start I go over the rationale for the project, which if you’ve listened to the end of episode 50 you’ll have heard fairly recently, so I apologise for double handing this bit, but I thought it worth keeping in for context. 
The sound in this episode is not the best, for which I apologise. The weather was so bad outside that you can hear the hall’s fan flapping in the background quite often. 
The hall is somewhat echoey as well, so the sound can at times be a bit distant. 
Where the sound is really good though is where Gus Stewart picked people out with his boom mic. 
I’m so thankful to Gus for his time and effort on the evening, he managed to capture some really great moments. There was a fantastic moment where someone broke wind very loudly near one of the stationary mics, but I’ve cut this out for your peace of mind. And bowel. The videos that accompany this episode can be found on this link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmUODPpzD_oxT_s9yzjdhvA1FIbB1CH8c More info can be found at whatwedointhewinter.com Thank you for listening!

This is a brief advert for Islands in Film, which premieres tomorrow evening at 8pm, Friday the 26th of June 2020. For more info please follow this link https://whatwedointhewinter.com/2020/06/18/islands-in-film-premiering-fri-26th-june-8pm-on-youtube/ Filmed by 75 people and edited by Alasdair & Georgia Satchel, it features music by Hannah Fisher and Sorren Maclean. The aim of the film is to make connections and bring us all together a bit. Another aim is to raise funds for Mull and Iona Pantry, our local foodbank. https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mullandionapantry Thanks for listening. (The special rockier theme at the end is the one I'm never allowed to put on the episodes as my wife thinks it's too self indulgent. Just because I want to be Mike Oldfield.)

This episode features a chat with Richard Kellett of Aros Mains. Originally from the Borders Richard is a paramedic here on Mull. He’s lead a remarkable life, having been in the army seeing service in Iraq during the 2nd Iraq war. Many people here on the islands will know him from his work with the ambulance service, his time as manager at Am Birlinn and many other incarnations. It was a real honour to spend this time with Richard and I thought it important to make his episode the 50th as he and the team that he’s a part of does so much to make our lives here better and safer, at this time more than ever. This episode delves a bit deeper into personal areas than other episodes so far. I’ve put some links to some supporting information on the website if you find that you need it. Thanks for listening! Links and more info on whatwedointhewinter.com

This episode is a conversation with Sheena Walker. Brought up in Dervaig, Sheena talks about the lives of her Mother and Father, her various jobs on the island, the social scene of her youth and so much more. Due to the current lockdown situation we recorded our chat over the internet. These days, whilst working in Edinburgh at the Royal Scottish Academy on the mound, where she’s in charge of private views, visits to artist’s studios and runs the RSA friends, Sheena keeps her home in Tobermory. I hope this chat gives you an hour away from the world. If you're on Mull, Iona, Ulva or Gometra and are listening to this before midnight on Sunday 24th you may be interested in our Islands in Film project, more information about which can be found on our website. More info and links can be found on whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

This episode is a conversation with Anja and Mark Jardine of Iona. Due to the current lockdown situation we recorded our chat over the internet. Originally from Germany Anja comes from a town near Leipzig, and grew up during the cold war, when the Berlin Wall divided the country into East and West Germany. Anja was in the East living under communism. We talk about the experience of growing up in this environment, and the moment when it all changed with the fall of the wall. Mark was brought up in Glasgow at a time of great change for the city. We talk about the diversity of Scots language in the city, his time at Art School and how his path lead him westwards to Iona. Mark, Anja and Mark’s sons Stewart and Neil run Alternative Boat Hire, Iona. If you’ve been to Iona and have seen a stunning boat with red sails sailing by, that’s likely to be the Birthe Marie, their boat. The story of the Birthe Marie and her refurbishment is in itself quite a tale and well worth investigating. You can find out more about it on boattripsiona.com It’s well worth your time! Links and more can be found on whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

In this episode I talk with Elizabeth and Donald Kirsop of Lochdon. Elizabeth’s recalls coming to the island, her teenage years, the Craignure Inn and much more. Donald talks about his family trade, growing up in Tobermory, and there’s some great stories about the music scene on the island in the past. It was just great to spend time with both Donald and Elizabeth in recording this conversation, I look forward to catching up with them both again soon. Following the last episode I’m going to try and do a listen-along twitter chat with this episode on Friday 24th of April, this Friday, at 8PM Dervaig time. It was lovely to chat with those that came along last time, it was rather good fun, so if you want to join me for an online natter using #WWDITW, please do! Thanks for listening! https://whatwedointhewinter.com/2020/04/22/47-elizabeth-and-donald-kirsop/

In this episode I talk with Charlie Hogg of Tobermory. Charlie and I have been trying to get a time to catch up together since the start of the project, so I’m absolutely delighted to have finally got around to spending time with him and to have the opportunity to share this with you. Charlie’s memories take in life in Tobermory, visits to Haunn and the Treshnish Isles, and we talk about his working life, the characters of his youth and a quite remarkable boat yard in Tobermory, on the light house path that I’d love to find out more about. What I love about this conversation is the way that Charley relays the smells and senses of the times he’s talking about. We talk about food quite a bit, which he brings to life with great relish. I hope this little chat will give you an hour away from the world and just a wee break from all that’s going on. Episode links to follow in the next day or two. Thanks for listening!

There's a live event coming up this Saturday, the 7th of March 2020, in Dervaig Village Hall at 19.30. We'll be talking about Movies Made on Mull, Dervaig Village Hall through the years, the theatre production at Calgary Bay in 1993, delivery vans and local characters. If you've got anything you want to bring along to discuss, please feel free to do so! Cheers!

In this episode I talk with Gordon Bruce of Iona. Originally from Cumbernauld, Gordon has lived on Iona for the last 18 years or so. We talk about life before Gordon came to Iona for a good portion of the episode, and then, roughly half way through we come on to his life on Iona, the various jobs that he’s had over the years, and touch into the nature of life in a small community and touchingly, the kindness of others. My wife and our dog make an appearance towards the end of the episode, so that’s the noise you can hear in the background. I’m delighted to say that we’ll be having a What We Do in the Winter Live event on at Dervaig Village Hall from seven thirty to nine thirty, this Saturday the 7th of March 2020. It’s free to come along, if you’re about do come and join us, we’d love to see you. It’s going to be recorded for release as a podcast in the coming weeks, so do come along and take part. Rather than talking to one person we’re going to be looking at a few topics, which I’m going to ask people to comment on from the audience. I’ve got a couple of plants already willing to speak, but everyone’s welcome to chip in. The topics are: Movies Made on Mull; Dervaig Village Hall through the ages; Delivery Vans and – Local Characters. I’m kind of hoping that we get derailed though and go off in directions that weren’t anticipated, so we’ll see what happens! Episode links and more can be found on whatwedointhewinter.com Many thanks for listening!

In this episode I talk with Morag and Dugald Campbell of Sunipol, in the North of Mull near Cailleach. Originally from Grimsay in the Outer Hebrides, Morag will be well known to many listeners here on the island as a midwife. In fact she brought more than a couple of the listeners into the world. Dougie was born in Achahoish and moved to other locations in Argyllshire before settling here on Mull with Morag. Morag and Dougie lived on Gometra for a few years, which they describe with great clarity. You’ll notice that the sound in this episode isn’t quite the best, for which I apologise. The microphone was at a distance from Morag, although I did manage to move it closer as the episode progresses. The film I mention at the end of the episode can be found on https://youtu.be/2kgs3530alI Links and more can be found on whatwedointhewinter.com Thanks for listening!

In this episode I talk with Iain Morrison of Penmore. Iain runs Turus Mara with his son Colin and wife Pat, and sails daily from Ulva Ferry to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles in the Spring, Summer and Autumn. We cover a lot of ground in this episode. We talk about growing up in Penmore, going to school at Mornish, where his Mum was the teacher. We talk about his parents, and a little about his grandparents. At one point Iain talks about the evictions, these of course are the clearances. References are made to Dykes & Agnes, Marky Dan and many more famous local characters. As a young man Iain was in the merchant navy, and we talk quite a bit about his travels and life at sea. At one point we talk about the mortality of illegitimate children in the past, which was a real eye opener for me and quite shocking, so just a wee heads up for you that we go into that topic at a certain moment. There are quite a few terms that I found I needed a bit of definition on, such as Butterworth Watch and Rhumb line, so do check out the website for these and other links. We met over here at my house on a very windy day, and at certain points you can hear the wind roaring away in the background. Thanks for listening! www.whatwedointhewinter.com

In this episode I talk with Joanie and John Mackay of Tobermory. Joanie comes originally from Tobermory and John from Dervaig. Our conversation goes all over the place. We talk about when Joanie worked at the telephone exchange in Tob, when John’s folks ran the Bellachroy in Dervaig, the career of Joanie’s Dad, Pibroch, the renowned fiddler, John’s time in the garage and we also go into the early days of the rally and how John and friends used to compete in it. Joanie’s descriptions of her childhood on the main street are particularly vivid. The pictures she draws of her young self encountering all the people along the way is very beautiful. Hearing the numbers of the exchange too captures a specific moment in time that’s already passed. It was a delight to spend time with both John and Joanie, and the anonymous gentleman who appears at a certain point in the episode, too! Thanks for listening! Episode links can be found at whatwedointhewinter.com

Howard Pitman hails from Dervaig and now lives in Glasgow. Howie and I chat about his memories of growing up in the village and what the nature of the island means to him.  He identifies lots of characters from the past and talks very touchingly about the first time he met his wife to be. His father, David, ran Coffee in Books in the village. There’s some cracking info on the film screenings that used to take place at Dervaig Village Hall, including a screening of a more raunchy ‘art house’ movie. At a certain point in the episode you’ll hear a buzzing noise, this was a cable fault at my end of our online connection, for which I apologise. I’ve edited this episode and recorded the intro / outro whilst I’ve been working in Frankfurt, so sorry if I sound a bit rushed at the start and end, I’ve been grabbing moments in between screenings at the Lucas Film Festival. This episode is dedicated to the memory of my wonderful Mother in Law, Jackie O’Neill.  I couldn’t have wished for a better Mother in Law, our wee man was so lucky to have her as a Gran. Thanks for listening!   Episode links and more can be found here: http://whatwedointhewinter.com/2019/09/22/41-howard-pitman/