Presented in association with Tidelines Book Festival
An illustrated talk about OLD IRVINE, seen through the eyes of a boy who grew up in the town during World War Two.
For John McMillan OBE, growing up in Irvine was the foundation for a lifetime of adventure. He witnessed the transition from squalid housing conditions to the birth of the New Town, and as an adult returned to the town to teach alongside William McIlvanney.
A former pupil of Loudoun-Montgomery Primary and Irvine Royal, John’s teaching career began in the mathematics department of Irvine Royal Academy and ended as Rector of Invergordon Academy – a career recognised with an OBE for Services to Education. Alongside his passion for teaching, John developed a passion for and deep knowledge of Irvine’s rich social history, particularly its maritime and shipbuilding heritage.
Presented in association with Tidelines Book Festival, this will be an evening of entertaining and fascinating stories from a superb public speaker, illustrated with images of old Irvine. This event will mark the official launch of John’s book, ‘That Boy!’, and copies of the book will be on sale after the event.
If you grew up in Irvine, this evening is sure to evoke some of your own memories. If you’re a newcomer, or from a younger generation, you’ll find John’s insights into Irvine’s history fascinating. Either way, expect to see your home town in a new light by the end of the evening.