Friday March 13th 2026
Sydney Devine's daughter Karen Devine unveiling the plaque
Written by Glasgow View Reporter, Liam Eunson
A memorial plaque celebrating the life and legacy of Sydney Devine was unveiled on Thursday 12 March outside Cleland Primary School, bringing together pupils, fans and members of the local community to honour one of Scotland’s most popular performers.
Pupils from both Cleland and St Mary’s primary schools gave an enthusiastic performance of ‘Tiny Bubbles’, one of Sydney’s hit songs.
The ceremony took place in the village of Cleland, where Devine was born in January 1940 and where he attended school as a boy.
Councillor Geraldine Woods, Convener Communities, explained: “It came about after Karen Bishop, who runs a fan page dedicated to the singer, contacted our community partnership team at the council to ask whether something could be done to commemorate him in the village.
“So, we decided that a memorial plaque should be installed outside the school, funded through our Local Development Programme.”
Sydney was born in Mayfield Cottage in Bellside, one of eight children and he told his family that his childhood was simply the happiest time of his life.
He passed away in 2021. However, this tribute reflects the affinity he felt for the village throughout his life.
The plaque was unveiled by Sydney’s daughter Karen Devine, who said: “I can’t thank everyone enough for bringing this to fruition – my dad would have been overjoyed at the final result.
“It’s so poignant that a memorial plaque is erected outside Cleland Primary, where my dad spent his happy formative years.”
She laid 18 yellow roses – the title of another of his hit songs – as a mark of remembrance and appreciation for his life and career.
Following the unveiling, invited guests gathered in the school hall for a celebration recognising Sydney’s lasting influence.
Pupils from Cleland Primary School and St Mary’s Primary School performed during the ceremony and displayed a gallery of artwork inspired by Sydney and his music.
The Devine family gifted a trophy to each school to be presented to pupils who with the most creative and musical talents.
Video messages from well-known personalities, including Andy Cameron, were also shown, along with special presentations reflecting on his contribution to Scottish entertainment.
Later, the festivities continued at Cleland Community Centre where fans enjoyed live music from the Sydney Devine Band and tribute performers.
As a young boy Sydney first attracted attention for his remarkable ability to imitate bird calls.
His talent caught the attention of tenor Robert Wilson, who invited him to whistle during the recording of the song ‘Cottage By The Lea’.
This early moment that helped launch a career which would see him become a household name across Scotland.
He became widely known for his lively personality, distinctive singing voice and sparkling rhinestone-covered stage outfits.
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