Local man Alan McLaren has written these amazing books about Loanhead, full of fascinating historical facts and tons of fabulous photographs. For a set (2 volumes) the cost is £30 and Alan will throw in free copies of “The History of Midlothian’s Local Festivals” and “The History of Midlothian’s Brass Bands” with each set of Loanhead books sold! What a fabulous Christmas gift that would make for a Loanhead local, at a bargain price!
And we can offer free delivery within Midlothian (cash on delivery).
Alan has kindly offered the proceeds of any sales made via Loanhead Parish Church to church funds. Thank you Alan, we are most grateful.
To order please email community@loanheadparishchurch.co.uk with Loanhead Books in the subject field.
Loanhead: The Story of a Barony, a Burgh and a Community by Alan McLaren
Paperback, first edition, published 2019. A two volume set totalling 887 pages, fully illustrated with over 1,000 photographs and illustrations, many in colour. All aspects of the history and development of Loanhead are covered under 48 chapter headings in a work published to coincide with the 350th anniversary of the grant of Loanhead’s Charter. A must have item for anyone with connections to this Midlothian town.
The History of Midlothian’s Local Festivals by Alan McLaren
First edition, published in 2012. Hardback. 345 pages including a photo gallery with over 160 photos, many in colour. This book traces the colourful history and rich heritage of local festivals in the towns and villages of Midlothian. The Hiring Fairs, Carters’ Plays, Miners’ Plays, Friendly Society Walks and Gymnastic Games of former eras are covered in detail, as are the Children’s Gala Days and Penicuik’s Hunter & Lass Festival which still take place in modern times. Individual chapters cover events in Auchendinny & Glencorse; Bonnyrigg, Lasswade & Poltonhall; Cousland; Dalkeith; Easthouses & Mayfield; Gilmerton; Gorebridge; Loanhead; Newton & Danderhall; Newtongrange; Pathhead; Penicuik; Rosewell; Roslin and Temple. A must for anyone interested in the history of some or all of Midlothian’s towns and villages and anyone with an interest in Scotland’s local festivals.
The History of Midlothian’s Brass Bands by Alan McLaren
Paperback, 227 pages. First edition, 2016.
A detailed history of the various brass bands, past and present, which have emerged over the years in Midlothian’s various towns and villages, with separate chapters covering the bands in Bonnyrigg & Lasswade, Dalkeith, Gorebridge, Loanhead, Newtongrange, Penicuik, Rosewell, Gilmerton, Portobello and Musselburgh. Fully illustrated with over 220 photos, many in colour. A must for anyone with an interest in the history of any of these communities and for anyone interested in the history and development of brass bands.
