Scotland's local history

Got an historical itch to scratch? Then look no further than "Past Lives" for help! Mark Stephen sets out across Scotland to answer listeners' questions about the country's past -- from Wick to Dumfries and Vikings to Mods, his curiosity knows no bounds. In the 2nd programme of the new series, Mark visited Wick and found, among other things, the Trinkie Baths, another outdoor swimming pool to add to his collection. But Mark's escort for the day, Harry Gray, took Mark off to his own beloved North Baths...

Mark took a tour round Sinclair Girnigoe Castle perched on the cliffs just outside Wick. Malcolm Sinclair explained the work going on to renovate the castle and of the discoveries during archaeological excavations. You can visit the Castle as part of Doors Open Day -- a Scotland-wide opportunity to visit buildings and places not usually open to the public. The event takes place during September, on different days for each area. Find out more at www.doorsopendays.org.uk or ring their answerphone for a brochure for your part of the world 0141 248 1188.

We’re still on the hunt for a parka to go on display at the new Glasgow Riverside Museum which will replace the city’s Museum of Transport. Tailor Steven Purvis described why parkas were so popular and Museum Curator Kirsty Devine explained how the Museum’s scooter collection needed bringing to life with the true stories of Scottish Mods. So if you were or are a Mod, the Museum would love to hear from you. Let us know and we’ll put you in touch.

Three Glasgow ladies described the tradition of the "menoge" -- pronounced "men-oj"! A form of informal credit union, the menoge helped its members save up for birthdays, holidays or just a decent hair do!

Back in Wick, Mark visited Pulteneytown, an area which claims to be the "world’s first industrial estate" and heard about the huge economic boom in Wick in the late 18th century as the herring industry took over the town. Pulteneytown is hosting a special Doors Open Day event on Saturday 10th September.