The Old Turnstiles

Many years ago, Hamilton Crescent had turnstiles. Recently a photo has been unearthed by long-time cricket club benefactor Dougie McCrea showing them at their pomp.

For many years, West of Scotland had to deal with slightly larger crowds than today. It may be the only ground in the UK to have hosted internationals in five sports, including cricket. So, turnstiles were needed to control public access to the events.

The picture shows the gates closed over two sets of doors leading into the ground at the corner of Peel Street and Burgh Hall Street. The date is not known but they certainly were still in place in living memory, according to a long-standing member who recalls them "when I was a boy".

The turnstiles are long gone, replaced by flats that overlook the ground. However the iron "West of Scotland CC" sign - decorated with flamboyant thistles at each end - can still be seen on Peel Street.

Modern cricket fans can now enter the ground at the new WM Mann gate, also on Peel Street, where entrance is now free.