Alloway be thankit for Burns

Fiddle friends Entertainment was provided by Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra

Alloway Rotarians and guests enjoyed a top celebration in honour of the national bard.

President Campbell Johnson presided over an entertaining and varied programme, which included an amusing and thought provoking Immortal Memory from The Reverend Neil McNaught, minister of Alloway Parish Church, whilst Gordon McKinlay gave a rousing Address to the Haggis as well as a fine interpretation of Holy Wullie’s Prayer.

The theme was very much centred on Alloway with a focus on young talent, from schools and members of the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra.

Solo fiddler Drew Seville set the scene and later entertained with a selection of Burns related tunes with Daniel Nicol of Belmont Academy piping in the haggis.

Alloway Primary pupils Kirsten Andrew and Sophia Walker recited Tae a Louse and Address to the Toothache while Doonfoot Primary youngsters Megan Archibald and Aria MacTaggart delivered part of

Tam O’Shanter. A selection of Burns’ songs were beautifully sung by Ellie Crosbie ( Soprano) and Findlay Peters ( Baritone) both of Wellington School.

Wallace Galbraith told guests the fascinating Story of the restoration of the “Burns Fiddle” which was once played by the poet himself, and currently on tour in the US as part of Burns Celebrations there.

The group enjoyed their evening, as wittily summarised by former MP and future Alloway Rotary President Bill Grant in his vote of thanks.

Ready to eat Address to the haggis by Gordon McKinley

Be Thankit Bill Gambell delivers the Selkirk Grace

Fine dining Guests and rotary club members patiently await their tasty haggis

Suited and booted The cheery faces of the top table who enjoyed the evening. Back left, club president Campbell Johnstone and back right, former MP Bill Grant.

We hae meat Jordan Scott with the haggis piped in by Daniel Nicol of Belmont Academy

Remembering Rabbie Guests enjoyed a tipple or two before dinner was served