An Arbroath Timeline

Jan 15 At Arbroath Marina, John Swankie takes delivery of a 12 metre, 8 tonne fibreglass boat to cater for both sightseeing and rod fishing. Bought from a Devon source, the vessel (currently named 'Spot On') will be renamed 'Ardent'. It has capacity for 12 passengers and 2 crew. Mr Swankie also owns the 'Heather Isle', serving visitors and rod fishermen on Bell Rock and coastal trips. The 'Crystal Tide', his previous vessel sold last year, was the last white fish trawler to work from Arbroath. Jan 26 Arbroath policeman Darren Burnett becomes Mens Singles Indoor Bowls World Champion. Feb 28 Brian Forsyth, Associate Editor of the Arbroath Herald, retires today. He joined the newspaper in 1967, becoming Chief Reporter on Nor Riddle's retirement and Associate Editor when George S. Shepherd became Chairman. Stan Mackie, photographer also retires today, having joined the Herald in 1997. May 30 Arbroath's Sheriff Court, built in 1803 closes, business being transferred to Forfar Sheriff Court. The court closure is one of 11 in Scotland.