STYLE on the ice – inside and out - was as just as important as technique when you were a teenager in the early 60s.
Times Past reader Rab Brennan recalls his skating heyday at Crossmyloof with fondness.
“The style for good fast skaters as we were, was wide-knee trousers tapering into tight bottoms, casual tops and hockey skates,” he explains. “Girls wore white figure skates.
“Crossmyloof rink stood at the junction of Minard Road and Titwood Road, and when I was going, around 1958 to 1961, was only open for general skating between October and March.
“The cost of entry was two-and-six, half a crown.”
Rab and his best pal Jimmy O’Donnell were “Dennistoun guys, 18 years old and on a Saturday night we would catch the Number 38 bus on Alexandra Parade to go to the most popular and busiest night of the week at Crossmyloof.”
He added: “The played records – I remember Please Help Me I’m Falling by Hank Locklin, Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool by Connie Francis, Delaware by Perry Como and Hats Off to Larry by Del Shannon.
“Midway through the session the ice was cleared for speed skating races.
“Some nights the ice got very watery and if you had the misfortune to fall near the end of the night, you went home with very wet clothes.”
Many readers have fond memories of Crossmyloof Ice Rink on the south side of Glasgow. It opened in 1907 and was substantially redeveloped in 1928-29, with seating for more than 1300 spectators.
Eventually, it was extended again – to 223ft in length, and the seating capacity was hoisted increased to almost 2000. An extra ice pad was added in the mid-1930s, accommodating another four curling rinks.
The Crossmyloof rink continued to operate until its closure in February 1986.
READ MORE: Battle of the Weegies at Crossmyloof Ice Rink
Rab adds: “When Crossmyloof closed, supposed to be for renovation, it never re-opened. But I was left with great memories.”
*Did you curl or skate at Crossmyloof? What did you love about it - and what do you miss most?
Our photographers have captured skaters in action around the city over the decades - like this crowd enjoying a session in Finnieston's Summit ice rink, and on frozen ponds during the winter's coldest snaps.
This charming picture of 30-month-old Joyce McChlery hanging on for dear life at Bingham's Pond is one of the best, while Paisley's Barshaw Park was the skating rink of choice for these young people larking about.
Where did you skate in the city?
We would love to hear your stories and see your photos - get in touch by emailing ann.fotheringham@glasgowtimes.co.uk or write to Ann Fotheringham, Glasgow Times, 125 Fullarton Drive, Glasgow East Investment Park, Glasgow G32 8FG.
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