No one knows just why people from Paisley are called “Buddies”. The most probable explanation is that it comes from the old Scots custom of hailing a person as a “body”, pronounced locally as “buddy”. Here are five of Paisley's best-known Buddies.
WILLIAM WALLACE
Long before he became a Hollywood hero in blue face paint, Wallace was a Scottish knight, born around 1270. Despite claims of an Ayrshire heritage, he was in fact Knight of Ellerslie (Elderslie, close to Paisley), the field of the Elder trees. His role in the wars to free Scotland secured his place as a national hero.
JOHN WITHERSPOON
Before sailing to America, where he would become a signatory to the Declaration of Independence, Dr John was a minister in Paisley’s Laigh Kirk. Born in 1723, he was ordained in 1745, and as president of the College of New Jersey, he trained many US leaders. Oh, and he’s an ancestor of actress Reese Witherspoon.
GERRY RAFFERTY
Born in Paisley in 1947, Rafferty began writing songs at the age of 21. He then went on to become a member of two hugely successful groups, the Humblebums (with comedian and actor Billy Connolly) and Stealers Wheel, but will certainly always be best remembered for his biggest pop hit Baker Street.
GERARD BUTLER
Another of Paisley’s well-kent faces with a Hollywood connection, Gerard Butler was born in Paisley in 1969. He chose acting over a career in law and found big screen fame as King Leonidas in 300. He has since appeared in countless dramas and rom coms.
PAOLO NUTINI
The musical pedigree of Paisley stays strong with Paolo Nutini’s worldwide success. Born in Paisley, where his parents run a chip shop, it wasn’t long before he was battering up
the charts.
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