Baird of Bute Day - Kingarth Airstrip

Today was "Baird of Bute Day", the third time that the Baird of Bute Society has organised events on the island to commemorate the first all Scottish heavier than air flight .

That remarkable individual was Andrew Blain Baird, a blacksmith on Bute who in September 1910 flew his own construction at Ettrick Bay.

Chris Markwell , a Brandane but one who has lived most of his life in Canada, has driven these celebrations and brought Baird back to public attention. However he has done so not just for historical reasons but also to encourage innovation and education.

Today saw the presentation of the first "Barid of Bute" Aviation award which went to Scott Grier OBE, the Chairman of Loganair. It was presented first of all at the airstrip at Kingarth where no fewer than 22 aircraft and microlights assembled.

It was an amazing sight, with Arran in the background and a piper welcoming them in . The weather was kind too.

In the afternoon there was a fly past at Ettrick Bay itself (where there is a monument to Baird) along with a display by a Royal Naval rescue helicopter.

The society also published today a book by Chris about Baird, to which I was pleased to contribute an introduction.

"Baird of Bute Day" has a serious purpose, but is also fun and draws lots of people to the island. An ideal event.

Worth looking at this LARGE , btw...