Friends of Malin pay their tribute

The Friends of Malin’s 20th annual Burns Supper was held on Friday at Malin Court, Maidens.

The assembled company enjoyed traditional fare, provided by chef Iain Costine and his kitchen staff and served by the Malin Court team under restaurant manager Natalie Rodger.

Chairman for the evening was Rev Owain Jones, of Isle of Bute, whose charm and ready wit set the right mood and scene for the speakers.

Molly Beckett and Finn Rodger, P7 pupils of Maidens Primary School, were given a huge round of applause for their brilliantly delivered Address to the Haggis.

It has become a feature of this supper that Maidens Primary pupils deliver this address and the performance of Molly and Finn was a credit to their parents and the school.

The Immortal Memory was delivered by Willie McDougall MBE, who emphasised the tremendous contribution to the literature and history of Scotland made by the Bard.

Allan McLennan proposed the Toast to the Lassies in words not always totally complimentary to the fair sex.

In reply Sheila Mackenzie e n s u re d t h e l a d i e s conceded no ground in the confrontation by defending the reputation of the lassies and totally repulsed, in the nicest possible way, any slur on their honour.

Susan Pye entertained the company well with her lovely voice and excellent choice of song, accompanied by pianist Andrew Nicol.

Ian McGregor led the community singing and Bryce McCulloch was piper for the evening.

The vote of thanks was proposed by Hugh Fulton and the evening closed in traditional manner with the company singing ‘ Auld Lang Syne’ and resolving to meet again next year.