Mystery that's set in stone

The likeness of a man's face, seemingly staring proudly into the middle-distance, is chiselled into a rock face in the 'First Glen' of Kilsyth, a popular walkway which begins at the northern end of Allanfauld Road.

Gerry Callahan, of Backbrae Street, was enjoying a leisurely walk a couple of weeks ago when a sudden downpour forced him to seek shelter under the outcrop.

Gerry explained: "I was just waiting for the rain to go off when I noticed what looked to me like an eye. It was covered in moss and when I cleaned it all off there was just this striking face staring back at me. It was amazing, I couldn't quite believe it - it was so well hidden.

"This sort of thing is fascinating to me - I've read a lot of books about the area and none of them mention it, it would be great to find out the history behind it."

Hoping to unearth some some information about the sculpted image's origin, Gerry's friend Robert Bell, of Manse Road, took these fascinating pictures and brought them to the News office.

Willie Chalmers, chairman of the Kilsyth Historical Society, was able to shed some light on the subject.

He said: "There's an old disused mine shaft up there and an air outlet for the pit was by the rocks. We know it's (the carving) there, but as far as I'm aware no one has found out how it got there or even how long it's been there.

" I'm sure somebody knows and hopefully they'll get in touch."

If you think you could help us solve the mystery of the 'First Glen' rock face, please contact reporter David Graham on 01236 725578, or e-mail him at [email protected].