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With the disappearance of its large orchards this formerly
picturesque part of the East of Scotland has lost its out-
standingly attractive characteristic. It is quite reasonable
to conclude, however, that it was the influence of the generosity
of colour produced by the many blocks of fruit trees that
used to prompt the local folk to engage in the wholesome
competition of flower growing in many plots known as the
" yairds." The spaces available were small but the results
were often of the finest. " Kailyard " culture seems to
be regarded as rather too " slow " for modern tastes ; enthusiasm
is to a wide extent transferred to the " dogs," and colour
provided by the films. Nevertheless, gardens are as a rule
well kept, the householders taking an interest in the growing
of the more common flowers and vegetables.
The only local festival of importance is the Miners' Gala,
held annually in June. Formerly two meetings were held on
the same day, one for Prestonlinks Colliery and one for
Prestongrange Colliery. These were combined in 1946 and
since then the festival has become the Town Children's Gala.
It is now run under the auspices of the Town Council and
is a colourful and interesting ceremony, but appears to
include no traditional features of interest. There are two
Junior and several Juvenile Football Clubs associated with
the town, but no cricket club. The Former Pupils of Preston
Lodge School have Rugby and Hockey Clubs which play regularly,
and they hope soon to revive their Cricket Club. The town
has no golf course, but many of the inhabitants are members
of clubs in the neighbourhood.
There has been no serious crime in the parish for many years.
The police are part of the County Constabulary, and locally
there are one police sergeant and three or four constables.
The rate of juvenile delinquency, although not to be treated
with complacency, is considerably below the average for
the country. In the New Statistical Account the Rev.
W. Bruce Cunningham hoped that " the means of juvenile education"
would become " more abundant and the passion for ardent
spirits less powerful." His hopes have been fulfilled and
the character of the people is no doubt healthier and more
alert, although it is to be feared that, as has happened
in most districts, a certain stability and sense of responsibility
have
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