Helensburgh archives takes a look back on events in 2009

From markets, festivals and charity days, the community has been buzzing with activity which is always lovely to see.

But what was happening in and around the town 15 years ago this month?

In the July 15, 2009 edition of the paper, we reported on an award-winning student journalist joining the Advertiser and making waves with her special report on Helensburgh nightlife. We also covered a former Hermitage pupil heading to England for an opportunity of a lifetime and people rolling back to the 1970s and 80s.

Helensburgh Heroes hit the headlines after rubbing cyber shoulders with rock royalty. The Heroes quest appeared on the home page of none other than David Bowie, with details of the Helensburgh version of his famous hit single, which was due to be released the following month, taking pride of place. Phil Worms, who led the campaign to recognise the famous sons and daughters of the Burgh, explained to the Advertiser how the move came about, and his hopes that it could propel the group to potential superstardom. (Image: Newsquest)

Lucky Helensburgh firefighters chipped in at the Scottish Open golf tournament at Loch Lomond. The Helensburgh crew was on hand to put out any fires or deal with emergencies - but thankfully the event passed without incident. This group of heroes were more than happy to club together to pose for a photograph taken by our snapper Stewart Robertson. Pictured from left to right are Douglas Annandale, Brian Kennedy, Pat Lavelle and Stephen Lyons. (Image: Newsquest)

A former Hermitage Academy pupil headed to Leicester for the opportunity of a lifetime. Jenifer Watson, 22, travelled to England with a 14-strong group who competed in the Special Olympics. More than 2,700 athletes, 1,200 coaches and 1,500 volunteers headed to the East Midlands for the event, which celebrated the sporting achievements of those with disabilities, and 6,000 families joined them. (Image: Newsquest)

Advertiser reporter Sharon Thompson (right) wrote a special report on the nightlife in Helensburgh. Describing her night she said: “Sitting with my friends on Saturday night, our attention turned to the fond memories of our wild teenage days. The days when we were all turning 18 and were out four nights a week - every week - celebrating the occasion. It’s not that we’re old now at all; in fact, at 21 years old, we’re still in our prime. But I wish I could say the same for the Helensburgh nightclubs. The pubs in town are a great way to start the night and I can genuinely have a great night out in the Burgh.” (Image: Newsquest)

An award-winning student journalist from Helensburgh joined the editorial staff of the Advertiser. Sharon Thompson, 21, who lived in Jeannie Deans Drive, cam on board shortly after completing a three-year course at Glasgow Caledonian University and graduating with a BA in Journalism (with distinction). Sharon scooped a prestigious prize at the 2009 Write Stuff Scottish Student Journalism Awards. She won the Society of Editors Scoop of the Year award for her story 'Dhol Drum Delight', about bagpipes providing the soundtrack to a Muslim wedding ceremony. (Image: Newsquest)

Party-goers rolled back the years at the Drumfork Club as they celebrated a 60s, 70s and 80s disco. The disco was in aid of Backchat youth group and the Samaritans charity. They managed to raise £1,000 and the money was divided between the two groups. Lee-ann Ross, Karen Ross and Ann Coll thanked everyone who contributed to the great evening. (Image: Newsquest)