THIS week's rummage into the Advertiser's archives has uncovered a report from 15 years ago on an annual visit to Helensburgh by a group of students from around the world.

Here's how we reported the news on October 17, 2002...

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STUDENTS from around the world visited Helensburgh recently as part of an annual long-standing tradition.

The visitors received hospitality from various members of local churches in the area,

After arriving at RSR Braeholm the visitors, from all over the world, including India, Taiwan, France, Japan, China, Singapore and Palestine stayed for two nights.

They stayed in homes provided by various members of five different local churches, who ensured their stay was enjoyable.

Following the two nights the visitors then travelled to Inveraray and participated in a memorable ceilidh in the evening which was held in St Columba halls with music co-ordinated by Alan Craig.

The 22 smiling postgraduate students, most of whom are recent arrivals at Strathclyde University, were accompanied by some of their hosts who made the entire group feel welcome and at home and added to the experience.

The visit was organised by Nigel and Jan Mansfield.

The gathering of visitors has been an annual event since 1983.

Since then as many as 400 students from a wide variety of countries and cultures have benefited from a visit to Helensburgh and day trips and experiences within the wider area.