My name is Kevin Scott (58) from Newton Mearns, Glasgow. Married, two children. Lockdown for me provided the ideal opportunity to fulfil one of my earliest retirement goals. And that was to complete my journey around the Scottish mainland, once again, this time documenting and capturing tales and local histories of all of its 340 harbourages.
These were gathered with the omission of all islands and towns and villages sitting upstream from the mouths of the rivers Clyde, Forth, Tay and Dee. Intended as one book to cover all, it has resulted in four (400 page-full colour) books entitled 'Harbouring-My Desire'. Parts 1-4, which covers, anti-clockwise, the journey from Burnmouth, in Scotland's south-east corner on the border, around to the Dumfriesshire town of Annan in the south-west.
This was done, with all monies raised going directly to the RNLI charity who do and have done this year especially, a tremendous role in safeguarding our shores, all on a voluntary basis. 'Staycations' have resulted in many more callouts or 'shouts' than ever previously recorded. Just watch the enthralling BBC series 'Saving Lives at Sea' for just a few examples.
Originally from the Scottish Borders, I inherited my love of both the sea and its vast coastline from my grandfather when, from a young age, I would be regularly found out 'helping' in salmon cobles netting at the mouth of the River Tweed. Add into that the boyhood fascination of watching Eyemouth's thrilling fish-market live auction, and I was, well, hooked, you might say.
The books document tales and local histories of Scotland's 340 harbourages
That respect for the sea has only grown over the years and having listened to fishermen, harbourmasters and the like, right around our coastline, this past two years, my admiration for those dependent on making a living from it has only deepened. Whether sea fishing off Tarbert in the West to lobster fishing in the East, I have enjoyed every minute of my travel experiences. Local historians and 'worthies' alike have kindly imparted their local knowledge of their villages and harbours, adding much colour and background to each individual locale. Their passion and pride, I have tried to do justice to, as I reflect on each of their journeys to this point in time.
As we know, Picts, Christians, Romans, Vikings, the English and the 'Clearances' to name but a few have all left some indelible marks on our country, even if it be now only in their placenames. I have added in both the geography and social history, as well anything of historical or architectural significance, but also have various chapters on the evolution of the fishing industry, local seafood recipes, as well as a substantial glossary of every local heritage and tourist, recommended places to visit, for any inquisitive traveller.
These four books are now available on the Lulu Bookstore website, with all proceeds are donated to the RNLI.
My intention is to take these 4 books around the country next year, Covid permitting, in the name of the RNLI to as many local events as possible on our shores, having bought myself a small camper van specifically for this purpose.
