He founded the engineering business that bore his name, which was one of the most successful of local industrial enterprises in its heyday; and tried to revive the local shipbuilding industry.
He was also well known for the part he played in public life locally, for example as an Ardrossan town councillor in the early seventies.
But here's a role you may not have seen him in before; singing and playing the guitar at an entertainment put on for local old folks at the end of February 1971. He's quite a recognisable figure from other photos, but I must confess that until I read the small article about the event beside the picture in the Herald, I hadn't twigged why the guitarist in the centre looked vaguely familiar:
The reception was enthusiastic: " Bill McCrindle, well-known engineering contractor and member of Ardrossan Town Council, surprised and delighted the company when he played his guitar and sang with a relaxed manner and a pleasing voice . "
Also appearing at the concert ( which was put on by Saltcoats Old Peoples' Welfare Committee at the Lesser Town Hall ) , and equally well-received by the audience, were the St Mary's Players, who put on a Scots comedy called " Family Troubles " ( " well acted and a laugh a line " ) ;the Blencathra Folk Trio, led by George Forbes who also produced the play; and the three Cullimore children from Kilwinning, who I imagine will be the youngsters dressed alike in the picture.
Maybe there are some among you who might be able also to identify some of the others shown.
Susan
