Janette Stewart B.E.M. 1944-2002
Ask anyone about Janette Stewart and they will invariably speak fondly of "Wee Janette", who died on 25 June 2002 having lived a remarkable life.
Janette began her Gala Career in 1959 when she was named dux of Newbattle High School, located at that time in Gardiner Place, and went on to crown that years Gala King and Queen.
She became involved in the Gala on a more professional level when she joined the Committee in 1970', working first of all behind the scenes then as Treasurer, Secretary and Vice-Chairperson. Janette eventually took on the role of Chairperson that she held for well over a decade,
Her enthusiasm in making Newtongrange Gala Week one of the best in the area was limitless and her ideas for fund-raising and entertainment were original, fun and sometimes terrifying! These included parachute-jumping, abseiling, riding in a microlight, walking across the Forth Bridge (and climbing to the top of its tower!) speedboat sailing and door-to-door collections in fancy dress, all of which Janette took part in over the years.
The contacts made by Janette with local and national organisations, businesses and individuals during her 25 years on the Gala Committee provided a solid basis for the ongoing success of Gala Week events in the village. Her wide circle of family and friends also contribute their skills in various ways to ensure the residents of the village and countless visi-tors, as well as entertainers, enjoyed the Gala enough to want to return. Her efforts were re-warded when she received the British Empire Medal that she dedicated to all the people of Newtongrange.
Janette left an impression on everyone she met and it's fitting that this tribute is included in the 2003 programme to celebrate 90 years of Newtongrange Children's Gala, a cause very close to her heart.
Jane Lockhart
Former Chairperson and close friend