Carradale’s Winter Fling
As the lights went on all over Kintyre, Carradale villagers blew the rafters off the village hall at a distinctly East Kintyre variety night. The 100 club, lucky enough to obtain a ticket, partied through an ‘unplanned’ night with gusto. MC Alan Milstead said: ‘Carradale Church’s Winter Fling was simply a big night out. ‘The fundraiser with a slightly different concept ap- pealed to many in the village. ‘There was no clear plan for the evening, just a few offers and coercion to perform. ‘A night of food, bring your own booze, music, dance, anecdotes and tall tales entertained.’ The first highlight was the evening opener, a bramble or apple gin cocktail from Beinn an Tuirc. Mr Milstead added: ‘Reverend Steve Fulcher said grace before the assembled company enjoyed a smoked salmon or egg mayonnaise starter, followed by stovies and desserts, made by the Church Guild, all helped down by the local gin.’ There were a wide mix of entertainments including a tall tale from Mr Milstead, believed by at least one person. Judith Jones sang, Christine Ritchie and Alec McKinnon played some dance music. There were further tales from Gordon Abernethy about his time in the Royal Navy and Tony Leighton with Michael Foreman told a different version of ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas.’ A highlight of the evening, was an auction, which raised more than £800. Lots included a Marine Harvest salmon, a whole lamb from Ifferdale, gin, a Glen Scotia single bottling malt for the event which raised £200 and books. Margaret Campbell led the community singing finale. Emma Macalister Hall said: ‘It was the first event of its kind and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.’ Mr Milstead added: ‘As folk left no-one seemed to have noticed the lack of a plan.’