Homeguard tricks in Strollamus

"During the war years, my uncle Angus who lived at Kyle farm Kyleakin was in the Home Guard. On one occasion, a group of them were on a weekend exercise on the hills above Strollamus. On Sunday morning their rations had run out, so Angus and one of the lads decided to go down to the foot of the hills where they could see a small cottage. They hoped they might be given some refreshments and local hospitality.

"It was possibly not the best day of the week to knock on a door and request tea, disturbing the peaceful enjoyment of the Sabbath. They were immediately given their marching orders by the lady of the house. Scheming their next move, they hid behind a rock for ten minutes.

"They headed back towards the summit of the hill and the others came running to meet them, eagerly waiting to hear how they got on. With great excitement they told the boys how well they had been received and how much they had enjoyed the tea and scones, and furthermore the lady had invited them all to come down for tea.

"Needless to say they were given the same growling when they knocked the door heartily, announcing to her that they had all arrived down for their strùpag! (cuppa)"

As told by Ian Sikorski, resident of Kyleakin

More information on visiting the area can be found here.