A host of community activities based around five themes will be unveiled with the launch of an official website for the town’s anniversaryThe year-long Rutherglen 900 programme will feature a vintage bus tour and heritage walking trail(Image: Contributed/Rutherglen Reformer)

New details have been revealed of the community events to mark Rutherglen’s 900th anniversary next year – with a packed programme ranging from a heritage trail and vintage bus tour to podcasts, talks and performances.

The historic royal burgh will mark the “momentous anniversary” of the nine centuries since being granted its royal charter status in 1126 with a year of celebrations revolving around the five themes of heritage, arts, wellbeing, sport and the environment.

An official website will be launched on August 11, with full event listings, volunteer opportunities, heritage features and information on getting involved for both individuals and groups; with all local residents and community members being invited to “take part in shaping and celebrating this unique chapter in Rutherglen’s history”.

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Rutherglen 900 will be launched with a special event in the town hall, and highlights include a vintage bus tour of the town; walking tours highlighting both local landmarks and exploring Rutherglen’s radical history of activism and social movements; and an artists’ showcase entitled We Are Rutherglen to be hosted at Healthy n Happy’s venue, Number 18.

There will also be a Big Lunch Buzzfest community picnic hosted by Grow 73, a slideshow series hosted by Rutherglen Library including Rutherglen Lore and William Ross Shearer, and a family-friendly dance performance and ceilidh at Fernhill community centre.

A busy schools’ programme also includes primary pupils creating podcasts in response to their area’s local heritage as well as the Mills growing project and learning the Rutherglen Song written by local folk singer Fraser Bruce, plus further creative learning activities and workshops.

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Further events will be added over the coming months including talks, exhibitions, performances and community gatherings, taking place at community centres, churches and various local venues.

The programme is being delivered thanks to a large community network – including Healthy n Happy community development trust, CamGlen Radio, South Lanarkshire Council, heritage organisations, schools, artists, sports groups and volunteers.

Organisers say the 900th anniversary in 2026 is “a significant milestone for the town, and we’re excited to invite the whole community to be part of it” and will bring together residents, organisations, schools and volunteers throughout the celebratory year showcasing Rutherglen’s “proud heritage, while looking boldly to the future”.

Project lead Rachel O’Neill said: “It’s a real privilege to be part of Rutherglen 900 and to witness the incredible enthusiasm and pride our community has shown – this historic milestone not only honours 900 years of rich heritage, but also brings people together to celebrate, connect, and create new memories for future generations.

“The level of support and collaboration across local groups, volunteers and residents has been truly inspiring, and I’m proud to lead a project that will leave a lasting legacy for Rutherglen.”

Launching next week, the official website will be www.rutherglen900.com and the anniversary group can also be found on Facebook, Instagram and BlueSky.

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