Clarkston Disaster - 50 years on

Published 4 October 2021

Thursday 21 October marks 50 years since the Clarkston gas explosion, which tragically saw 22 people lose their lives and left many others injured.

We will be marking the day with a special service at the memorial tree in Clarkston Halls car park for the families of victims and survivors.

There will also be a minute's silence held across East Renfrewshire at 2.50pm on the anniversary, the time the explosion happened. We would encourage everyone who can to take part in this silent moment of remembrance.

East Renfrewshire Council's Deputy Provost, Councillor Betty Cunningham, said: '21 October 1971 was a dark day for the people of Clarkston and beyond. Many lives were lost and countless more were changed forever, so it is extremely important that the day is marked and we remember those who were lost. The commemoration at the memorial tree will give the families of victims and the survivors an opportunity to pay their respects and the minute's silence will allow everyone to stop in a moment of reflection.'

Also on the day, Greenbank Parish Church, St Aidan's Scottish Episcopal Church, St Joseph's RC Church and Williamwood Parish Church will be open to anyone for private prayer and reflection from 2pm until 4pm and then 6pm until 7pm.

If you are a family member of one of the victims or a survivor and would like further information on the commemorations, please email communications@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk.