A SUPERSTAR rock band drummer who lost an arm in a car accident sent a message of support to Largs Academy teacher David Macluskey following the trombonist's return to the stage this week in 2002.

Def Leppard’s Rick Allen sent his best wishes to David and said he always had faith the English and guidance teacher would get back to doing what he loved best.

David, 34, got back on stage with his band Big Vern and the Shootahs at Big Hearts, Big Night at Barrfields after recovering from losing his left arm in a bus crash in France.

Allen said: “I bet right now he is feeling 10ft tall. In my heart of hearts I always knew he could do it. If there’s any way I can encourage him further then I will do whatever it takes.

“For a musician, losing a limb is the worst case scenario. I understand what David has been through.”

The Sheffield-born drummer lost his left arm in a car smash in 1984 and began playing drums again with the aid of a specially-designed electronic kit. The two men shared a determination to overcome their disabilities, with David buying a special fixture which allowed him to play his brass instrument with one arm.

The accident in which David lost his arm happened near Dijon as a Largs Academy party made its way to Barcelona.

In other news Ayrshire's finest country singer Sydney Devine was on hand to cut the Largs branch of Macmillan Cancer Care's 10th birthday cake in Largs Main Street.

It was also green for go as Largs triumphed in the Scotland in Bloom awards. The town came first in the coastal resort category of the prestigious nationwide competition. A special ceremony took place in Edinburgh where Largs was announced as the winner.

A Largs Academy pupil and keen sailor became the first Scot to win a world youth sailing title. Largs Sailing Club member Campbell Davidson, of Fairlie, was also making waves at school, having attained seven firsts in his Standard Grade exams.

The life of a lollipop man who helped hundreds of Largs youngsters was commemorated by a small garden dedicated to his memory. Charlie McAllister, who helped children cross Moorburn Road at the top of the town’s Nelson Street, passed away in this week back in 2002. He had patrolled the crossing for 20 years and was described by one local parent as “a real gentleman”.

Millport Bowling Club held its club day as Cumbrae Queen Ashley Gledhill threw the first jack and bowl. The winners of the Griffin Trophy on the day were Sheena Cameron, Fraser Ross, Isobel Robertson and skip John McCubbin. Runners-up were Janette McGeoch, Sera Righetti, Bob Allen and skip Laura Blunt.