Scottish Blethers

One of the city's great traditions - when visitors jump in fright and locals check their watches. On the anniversary of the date on which the gun was first fired in 1861 we look at why this tradition developed and some of the characters associated with it. 

On the anniversary of the death of Alexander Bain we take a look at some of the simple everyday objects of modern life that owe their origins to the enquiring minds of Scottish inventors. Who was Alexander Bain? He invented the electric clock which was able to synchronise clocks around the world and made a major contribution to the developing telegraph industry. Yet he died in poverty and relative obscurity - a common theme. We look at how happenchance elevated some names to international recognition while the story of others became a footnote in the history books.

It’s New Year so it’s traditional to make our resolutions for the year ahead. In this first episode of 2022 we chat about places in Scotland that have so far eluded us but which we are determined to finally get around to visiting. They’re on our bucket list and we hope that you’ll add them to yours.

The lull between Christmas and New Year festivities when the pace slows down and - if you’re lucky enough to have time off work - you can recharge your batteries. In this week’s episode the Blethers range from culinary disasters to Mirrie Dancers. From the complexities of our public holidays in Scotland to an explanation of a literary portmanteau! The perfect opportunity to join us as you relax and draw breath.

As the big day draws near we chat about our preparations. Decorating the house, getting "the messages" in - even meeting Santa. In the end, it's not what is under the tree that matters but who is gathered around it that counts. We end with the Twelve Days of Christmas given a Scottish accent by Sheena Blackhall - lots of new words to add to your vocabulary! Wishing all of our listeners a very Merry Christmas.  

While many of the festivities leading up to Christmas are now universal, Scotland retains a colourful patchwork of Pagan, Christian, Celtic and contemporary customs. From fire and candle light to pantomimes and nativity plays we reflect on what makes a typical Christmas in Scotland with reminiscences from our own childhood memories. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Nothing signals the start of the festive season quite like a Christmas Tree. An ancient symbol of life and fertility, a modern emblem of community and friendship. This week's episodes debates the real versus the artificial, why Christmas tree farms are springing up across Scotland and how communities across Scotland are getting creative. With the lighting up of the local tree such an important event in the community calendar it might not come as a surprise that they can generate some controversy! Find out more by listening to this week's episode of Scottish Blethers

Those of you who follow the Scottish Blethers Podcast will already be aware that to blether in Scotland means to talk or chat with friends. This Christmas we’re offering you the opportunity to join the conversation with our festive gifts that reprise episodes and events from the year past. Spiced chutney made from a harvest of garden apples. Scottish tablet, a favourite Scottish sweetie made to Helen’s own secret recipe. Tartan facemasks, keyrings made from Harris Tweed, ……….and of course, the most sought-after Christmas gift - a spurtle to stir your porridge! These are just a few of the gifts available across two Christmas gift packages. To find out how to order just email Helen and Liz at [email protected]

This episode airs on November 30th which is traditionally the day on which we honour St Andrew, special protector of Scotland. One of Jesus Christ's twelve disciples, he literally took his master at his word when he told him to go out and preach the word of God "to the ends of the world". We look at the man and his travels and in particular, his links with our small nation.

As we get out and about again there is less time for research but more time to experience topics to blether about. This week Helen has been out and about in Fife and Perthshire while Liz travelled back to the  Western Isles. Hear all about our adventures in this week’s episode.