On a wintry evening in January a hardy and hearty bunch met to celebrate the birthday of our Bard, Robert Burns.
Our minister, Rev Louise McClements, said the Selkirk Grace before we tucked in to a traditional meal of haggis, neeps and tatties. This was followed by oatcakes,cheese, shortbread. dumpling and tablet, all washed down by soft drinks. Not a drop of Usquebae passed our lips!
Following the meal it was time to be entertained. Alistair Aitchison was the Master of Ceremonies who carried out his duties with wit and humour. As an alternative to the poem Tae a Mouse he recited a different version of the poem written from the mouse’s perspective.
The Immortal Memory was ably delivered by David McClements who gave a portrait of the Bard’s life and of memorable events quoting Burns’ poetry to colour his talk.
Raymond Hall gave a Toast to the Lassies and caused much amusement while his wife Lorna replied on behalf of the lassies. Their addresses evoked much laughter.
We were then to hear some lovely singing of Burns’ songs by Robyn Drain, Fiona Logan and David Calder. They offered up many favourites like Ae Fond Kiss, My Love is Like a Red Red Rose, Scots Wha’ Hae, A Highland Lad and Whistle and I’ll Come Tae Ye Ma Lad.
Helen Hector and Gillian Drain were the accompanists for the singers.
Finally the audience , to such an array of talent, was treated to the recitation of Tam o’ Shanter by David McClements. With great flair he told us the story of Tam through word , action and facial expression. How we enjoyed his portrayal of Tam
‘weel mounted on his grey mare Meg’!
