I was in Largs on Saturday. Spent a while with my wee mum as I do then headed for the train. I came down by bus but after a journey of nearly two hours on the most uncomfortable seats on the planet, my return would be much more to my wee body’s liking! I do feel the cold a lot more since I managed a bit of weight loss, so a nice warm train carriage would be just the ticket to ride home!

I stepped onto the train and found a seat in a carriage near the front. It was quietish until we reached Kilwinning, then the Saturday revellers appeared on board. Dressed up for being out and about in town, I was impressed by their style, though one or two were wearing the holier version of warm clothing! I shivered a bit…… then found myself wondering how on earth they kept warm. Must be an age thing. Anway, we left Glengarnock, then shuddered to a halt. No explanation was forthcoming until the driver appeared ushering two blokes towards the back of the train. One was screaming that he HAD to get off the train as his mother had just died. The driver was very pleasant and moved them on to the last carriage where there was still a bit of platform to alight from. Presumably they were allowed off and the driver returned to his cabin. He did offer an explanation before restarting the train but advised us that both men were a little the worse of alcoholic consumption. Emergency over we travelled on and reached Howwood. The train again filled up with Saturday revellers, most of whom joined those already in the front carriage. Some students came and sat beside me, a group of girls, who were obviously on their way back to their digs as they were making up a carry in order and debating the favourites. They conversed happily, obviously well-known to each other and from south of the border. They discussed two friends who were bi but not in a queer relationship together. I was surprised to hear the word queer, as in this day and age it seems to be not the way to address anyone, or so I thought.

Anyway the train arrived at Central and I got off amongst a throng, a huge throng. The lifts were out of order as were the escalators, so the thronging mass descended the stairs. I was swept down with them, onto the platform then onto the waiting train which was indeed going to Westerton, my stop. I was spooned into the carriage passageway together with hundreds of others. Now these others were younger, dressed up in the shortest skimpiest gear. I recalled my mini skirt days, but didn’t quite remember being THAT mini!!! We survived a stop at Anderson then the train almost emptied at the SEC. I got a seat, and smiled at the older couple across from me. 

“How on earth do they keep warm? Boy I’m feeling my age tonight!” I said, and they replied with a similar comment.

As we trundled on to my stop, I smiled and thought how good it was to see youngsters out enjoying themselves. My search on google found the reason for their departure at the SEC. Someone called Becky Hill was having a concert. Now who is Becky Hill???!!!!!