Gala day float David Hood Young

Dr Frank Zwolinski of Gauldry sent in the photograph below and writes: “The season of gala days this year was affected by the rigours of Covid-19 measures, meaning that the format of the longestablished celebrations and traditions had to be cancelled.

“This photograph, taken around 1963, shows a tractor-drawn decorated float depicting the ringside where ‘Frankee the Yankee’ is pitted against ‘Tiny the Terrible’.

“From left to right we see Gordon Morrison, Sam Dack, Neil West, David Smith, Alex Greig, Charles West, Johnny Boag, Alex Miller and Frank Zwolinski.

“The float seen behind is Ye Olde Gala Day Goes Live.”

“I am trying to find some information about my grandfather on my father’s side,” emails Robin Young. “He is David Hood Young, who was born in Dundee in 1882 and died on February 3 1937.

“He was a chief engineer on the

Willowpool ship and died at sea. No one in the family has even seen a photograph of him and we are now desperate to track one down.

“My elderly mum is anxious to complete the family photo album. We have never seen a birth, marriage or death certificate in his name.

“His Mercantile Marine Ribbon and British Medal Ribbon were issued on August 18 1919. His discharge number is 46515 and I have also managed to find his medal card for the First World War which is under BT351/1/156318.

“David was the husband of Ella Sim, 111 Arbroath Road, Dundee. His parents were Samuel and Agnes Young, who lived at 163 Albert Street, Dundee, and he was an only child, born in 1883 in Dundee (1891 and 1901 census). “Any help will be greatly appreciated.” If you are able to help Robin, please get in touch with Craigie in the first instance.

Gala days across the country have been cancelled, but here is a picture showing a float ready to take part in the 1960s. Read more above.