In March 2015 the Miners' Strike in the UK ended.  In Fallin, the miners of Polmaise Colliery were the first out and the last back - they spend 57 weeks on strike.  The Stirling Smith is remembering the colliery, which closed in 1987, and the strike in a new exhibition which runs until July 2015.  Dennis Canavan was an MP in Stirling during the strike - he was invited along to open the exhibition and this is his speech. 

This feature was recorded by www.beeherdmedia.com for the Stirling Smith 

Polmaise Exhibition - Dennis Canavan

The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum are hosting an exhibition to mark the 30th anniversary of the miners' strike and its impact on the colliery at Polmaise (Fallin).  In this audio we hear from local MP at the time, Dennis Canavan, along with miners involved in the strike and  "Friend of the Smith" Kathie Costello singing mining folk songs.  

This feature was recorded by www.beeherdmedia.com for the Stirling Smith

The Battle for Polmaise 1904-1985

When Stirling born English teacher Bruce Ritchie died in 2012, he left a painting by Sir Henry Raeburn to the Stirling Smith.  It was unveiled as part of the Smith's collection in May 2013 at an event where former Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, and Friend of the Smith, Sir George Reid, gave a speech.   

This feature was recorded by www.beeherdmedia.com for the Stirling Smith

Sir Henry Raeburn painting joins the collection

The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum has been on Dumbarton Road in Stirling since opening in 1869