Jan Bielski (02/10/1946 - 27/02/2025)
Son of Jenny Scott Black and Jerzy Bielski, proud son of Newtongrange.
Jan came from a long line miners on his mother's side. His father was engine-man in the Lady Vic, and was welcomed by the people of Nitten with open arms. Based on academic merit, Jan was king of the Gala Day.
He refused to wear the traditional outfit which was related to the dress of the king of his father's country of origin. When it arrived it was baggy, moth eaten, unflattering.
He elected to wear a kilt, from that day to this, the gala king has always worn a kilt.
His strength of character stayed with him. Jan became an art teacher at Newbattle school and coached rugby, keen to give back to a community that had shown much kindness. A well kent face. His heart belonged to Nitten.