Brian's bid to find ex-Army pal

Jun 25 2008 by Gordon Robertson, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

A FORMER soldier is trying to track down an old friend from Coatbridge - and wants Advertiser readers to help.

Brian Streetly, from London, served in the Royal Corps of Signals with local man Don McLean almost 50 years ago.

Now he is keen to find out if Don is still around so they can catch up and recall old times.

Brian, who runs a website for veterans of the combat support group, said: “In 1961, I did my basic training in Catterick with a lad from Coatbridge named Don McLean.

“Don came down to London and spent Christmas with me and my family and for the New Year we came up to Coatbridge and spent a wonderful couple of days.

“I did a lot of first footing that night! Well, I remember two houses.

“Don and I then went back to Catterick and we both went slightly different ways.

“We said we would keep in touch but it never happened, as is often the case.

“But I would like to see if I can find Don just to chew the fat and see how time has treated him.

“For the last 10 years, I have run a website for ex-Royal Signals guys but he has never joined.

“So I am now looking for a wee bit more help before it gets too late.”

If you can help, Brian find his old friend send an email with details to grobertson@s-un.co.uk