Well, did you see our own Bill Haining on his famous dauner along Main Street, Kilbirnie, with the Commonwealth baton on Tuesday July 15?, writes Donald L Reid.

Didn’t he do us all proud! In fact there was an excellent turnout by Beith folk, out in force to see one of their town’s best known locals as he sauntered his 200 metre route through Kilbirnie, proudly holding aloft the baton, containing HM Queen’s message for the official opening of Glasgow 2014.

Everyone was cheering, clapping and waving union flags, shouting: "Well done, Billy."

One local wit was heard to shout above the cheering: “Haw Billy, you should be running in the actual Commonwealth Games, son!” It could only happen in Kilbirnie, eh!

Following his memorable wander along Kilbirnie Main Street, Billy said: “It really was a great honour.

"I know that all the baton carriers in Kilbirnie were delighted at having this amazing opportunity.

"The spectators lining the streets, many from Beith, were just fantastic.” He continued: “When it came my turn to run with the baton, the lady police escort runner asked if I wanted to jog or walk.

"When I told her I was 80 she was taken aback and was happy to agree when I said I would just dauner.

“Mind you, I did manage to slowly jog for a short distance, inspired by the encouraging spectators.

"It really was a marvellous experience for all the runners and we can’t thank the spectators enough for their support.” Billy passes on his grateful thanks to everyone who attended the event for their great encouragement.

He also received a number of telephone calls and cards congratulating him on this special honour bestowed on him, which will no doubt help to remind him of his special day when he carried the Commonwealth baton on day 32 of its journey around Scotland and eight days before it arrives for the opening ceremony in Glasgow.

The other baton carriers who took part in the Kilbirnie leg of the Commonwealth baton journey were: Connor Smith (15) of Beith (educational progress); Jacqueline McLeod of Kilbirnie (educational progress); Rachel Halbert (17) of Kilbirnie (sports volunteering services); Hayley Haining of Kilbirnie for 40 years of service to sport and marathon participant taking part in her last Commonwealth Games; and Karen Kelly of Beith, who is involved with the Child Cancer Trust.

Everyone will join in heartily congratulating all the fantastic baton carriers and wish them well for the future.

No doubt the special day when they carried the Commonwealth baton will remain in their hearts forever, and rightly so.

Well done, folks.