Nitten neighbours celebrate centenary with street party

Past and present residents of the Midlothian street came together on Saturday 15 June to reminisce and revel in the centenary celebrations.

The party was the result of months of planning, all of which looked to be in jeopardy in the run-up to the big day as the weather forecast predicted wind and heavy rain. However, Newtongrange Development Trust came to rescue, lending the party-goers a series of large gazebos, and residents dug out tropical decorations and novelty sunglasses to coax out the sunshine.

After a drizzly lunchtime start, revellers were delighted to see the sun appear and the summer street party continued in full swing for the rest of the afternoon and well into the evening.

A traditional piper kicked off proceedings, marching the length of the terrace, before corks were popped and the barbecue was fired up. Neighbours tucked into homemade burgers, quiches, pastries, sandwiches and cakes. Entertainment came in the form of a variety of traditional games including three-legged races and egg and spoon races for all the generations to enjoy, and the music playlist featured popular tracks from days gone by.

A table of memories was set up, enabling neighbours to share pictures, stories and mementos from life on the terrace which dates back to 1924. After a speech from the street’s longest residing neighbour, Elizabeth Rowe, it was over to the youngest residents – Adara McCosh, Brodie McCabe, Charlie Stewart and Esme Stewart – to lead the ceremonial burial of a time capsule containing letters, photos and souvenirs from everyone present.

Commenting on the day, resident Rebecca McCosh said: “Everyone pulled together to make this street party a huge success – decorating their houses with bunting, baking cakes, and making sure everyone’s glass was topped up. It was lovely to see residents old and new being reunited on this memorable day!”