And Tom Finlay, who lived in Stewart Street for 31 years, has proved it — by writing two books revealing an eventful first 17 years of his life.

"These are short stories of what happened to me when I was young," said grandfather of seven Tom, who visited the Gazette office during a recent trip home to see his brother George.

"It took me 13 years to write the books. They are packed full of entertaining material, including when the Queen came through Carluke."

If the Queen's visit to Carluke is a notable highlight of the second book, the same can be said about the 'Secret of the pole' in chapter 13 of book one.

Tom, who in later life worked as a turner at Anderson Boyes in Motherwell between 1954 and 1970, explains that the pole in question was a lamp post in Carluke's School Lane.

We won't spoil the secret...so you'll have to read the book to find out what it is!

Printed by Reach Out Press, of Christchurch, the 'A Grandfather Looks Back' books are each over 250 pages long and full of entertaining nostalgic reminiscences.

To order a copy, or simply to get in touch with Tom, email him at tombeth@clear.net.nz

For more information on this story, pick up a copy of this week's Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.