THE BEITH BEAR

It was a real pleasure to attend the unveiling of the lifesize memorial bear in Beith with Cllr Anthea Dickson, in commemoration of the dancing bear regularly seen in the town over 100 years ago. This carving is in memory of the suffering of these animals and also to celebrate the wonderful furniture businesses which were once major employers in the town.

The lifesize memorial bear was carved using a chainsaw by Pete Bowsher, one of the top Scottish Chainsaw Carvers. Western Red Ceder has been used for the carving, a timber recognised as resilient in the face of rot or insect infestation.

The installation of the bear is at the top of the Strand on the site of the old fountain.

Thanks to pupils from Beith Primary for all the wonderful suggestions for names for the bear, and also to the pupils from Gateside Primary.