The group of 32, from third year to sixth year, were part of a diocesan task force that helps out with the seriously ill and dying as they visit the Catholic Shrine in the south of France.

Three full coaches went from the diocese of Paisley and the Barrhead boys and girls will almost fill a coach of their own.

Speaking in 2005, St Luke’s teacher Jim Drennan said: “They are there as helpers and will have to work very hard but the dedication they have shown so far is great.” The trip lasted for seven days and as well as the physical work, the caring kids spent as much time possible chatting to the pilgrims and keeping them entertained.

auchenback Primary won the coveted Green Flag in 2005 for their environmental efforts throughout the year.

The prestigious award was earned thanks to the 14-strong Eco Committee comprised of 14 pupils from Primary 3 through to Primary 7 and the tremendous efforts of all the pupils in the school.

It is known that it is extremely difficult for a school to be presented with the Green Flag award due to the high standards required.

BARRHEAD’S independent beer company, Kelburn Brewery, launched another innovative brew for the home-brew AGM in Glasgow in 2005.

The new brew, ‘Ale Belong to Glasgow’, was based on the old music hall standard sung by drinkers worldwide – I Belong to Glasgow.

Kelburn had only started brewing in 2002, which quickly gained a reputation as one of the best in the business.

A POP group from Barrhead rocked their way to winning a Battle of the Bands contest that took place in Newton Mearns in 2005.

The foursome, Ayrial, were voted top of the pops at the Maxwell church gig from an entry of six local bands and were rewarded with £150 for their efforts.

dance sensation James McLaughlan was in the running for a top television prize in 2005 after wowing audiences with his skills on the dance floor.

Auchenback star James and his Paisley-based partner Claire Adam were voted through to the next stage of the BBC’s ratings-winner Strictly Dance Fever.

The pair were watched by millions while going through their high-speed routine.

The dance sensations had to work around the clock to master their styles of dancing and it was their determination that caught the public’s eye.

BARRHEAD and Neilston primary school soccer stars were on the ball in 2005 when they took part in a Football Festival.

The event was held in Rouken Glen Park with parents and teachers cheering the pupils on.

BOYS’ Brigade members from Barrhead, Neilston and Uplawmoor battled it out for medals in 2005, in the Have a Heart sponsored event that was held in Johnstone. A team of 10 officials from the swimming team, Ren96, judged the individual and relay categories.

ST LUKE’S senior football squad won their league championship back in 2005 and went on to play in a Scottish play-off match to claim the accolade ‘Scotland’s Number One’.