When putting on a Sunday raised the wrath of the church

The phrase '˜'˜never on the Sabbath'' is widely associated with the Isle of Lewis, the last place which still a adheres to the fourth commandment.
By The Newsroom
Published 30th Jan 2018, 09:15 BST
Updated 30th Jan 2018, 09:26 BST
Front page from the Kirkcaldy Times, published by Strachan & LivingstonFront page from the Kirkcaldy Times, published by Strachan & Livingston
Front page from the Kirkcaldy Times, published by Strachan & Livingston

But the notion of taking part in social activities on a Sunday also raised hackles in Fife – as this cutting from our archives shows.

The Kirkcaldy Times of June 1959 carried a fascinating short article which gave a glimpse into how society used to consider the Lord’s Day.

And the contentious issue? A gentle game of putting ...

St Monans putting cuttingSt Monans putting cutting
St Monans putting cutting
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It impacted on St Monans where St Monance Town Council stood firm amid criticism of its decision to allow locals and visitors to enjoy a round of putting on a Sunday.

It received a petition from some 242 residents in complaint.

It was submitted by the Rev J.S. Rough of St Monance Church of Scotland, but his plea to halt putting on a Sunday fell on deaf ears.

The report stated: ‘‘Provost James Braid said he was satisfied most of the people who had signed were not against Sunday putting.’’

St Monans putting cuttingSt Monans putting cutting
St Monans putting cutting
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It noted: ‘‘Some who signed went for joy rides on Sunday, many of them had television.’’

The council heard 51 adults and 17 juveniles had paid to play on Sunday, June 7, noting: ‘‘This showed there was a genuine desire for it.’’

Related topics:Isle of LewisFife