Published: Tuesday, 20th May, 2008 10:30
Artizans reign in Spain
By Martin Donegan
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The Artizans in Spain
A RENTON group has made history by becoming the first Scots invited to one of Spain’s biggest festivals.
Members of the Strathleven Artizans were asked to perform in front of 1.2m visitors from 30 countries at Fuengirola’s annual International Fair of Countries.
They were joined by Glasgow drum and pipe band Clann An Drumma — Gaelic for Children of the Drum — and troupes of Highland and Celtic dancers.
The voluntary group promotes historical links between Strathleven and King Robert the Bruce — who lived and died in Renton.
The group was invited by the Fuengirola Tourist Board because of its connection with the Spanish village of Teba.
The Andalucian outcrop is where the Bruce’s second in command Sir James Douglas was killed while carrying his dead leader’s heart on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
During his time in Spain Sir James was hailed as one of the greatest knights and his efforts are remembered every year by villagers.
Last year, the Artizans twinned with Teba ahead of its annual festival. The group is now aiming to rebuild the Bruce’s Manor House at Dalquhurn Point, where he died, or within that area. And it is also planning to open a national exhibition of the Strathleven Oak tree, known locally as the Bruce Oak.
The Fuengirola International Fair of Countries celebrates the customs, music and traditions of the different nationalities who live in the town.
This year saw a collection of over 2,000 musical instruments from around the world.
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