Sweetie shops and snowdrifts! These are just two of the glimpses given in words and pictures of life in the Southmuir during the 20th century in the fascinating new book, "Views of the Southmuir" published by Kirriemuir St Andrew's Church to mark its Centenary.

Comparable in size and design to the previous Millennium publications about Kirriemuir and the Glens, it does not restrict itself to tales of the parish and its people.

It reaches out beyond the boundaries of Kirriemuir to follow the footsteps of those who had the courage to emigrate to Hawaii.

It details the Southmuir's connections with the man of the moment, Sir J M Barrie, whose most admired achievement “Peter Pan” was first performed in 1904. You will find out how important the house “Strath View” was to him – and what he got up to on Pathhead Farm – and what might have been there.

Former pupils of Webster's Seminary and Southmuir School will enjoy some reminders of their happiest days there, and folk who grew up on the Southmuir during and after the Second World War will be taken on a trip down Memory Lane, recalling how they used to spend their pocket money.

Of course the story of the two churches on the Southmuir and their ministers, is outlined, along with the highlights of the churches' life. Some of the drama and musical activities of bygone days are recalled, as well as the year of Centenary Celebrations in 2003.

The amazing range of nearly 200 illustrations - photographs, postcards, family snaps, maps, children's drawings and aerial photographs will delight and intrigue.

Co-written by Helen Main and Sandra Affleck on behalf of St Andrew's Church to whom all profits will go, the book is available in local shops for £10.00. Available by post from

helen.main@standrews-kirriemuir.org.uk

Cost plus packaging and postage: within UK = £12, Europe airmail = £12, USA/Canada/Australia/NZ airmail = £14.

Cheques payable please to: St Andrew's Church, Kirriemuir.