Tartan Weavers honour Burns in fine style
The 36th Annual Tartan Weavers Burns Supper took place on Sunday at the Tartan Arms/mcques in Bannockburn, chaired and conducted by Joe Smith.
At the start of the afternoon/evening a raffle was held by David Curley of the Tartan Arms, which raised £750 for Strathcarron Hospice, in memory of the late John Mcque, well known proprietor of the pub.
Spokesperson for the organisers, Lewis Allen, said:“the traditional reeking haggis, was piped in by local piper Graeme Fraser and presented to the top table and guests by Margaret Beaton, taking the role of Poosie Nancy.
“Graeme also provided the lament music during the afternoon and evening event.
“Willie Barr, a regular speaker at the Tartan Arms Burns Supper, provided the traditional‘address to the Haggis’, prior to the beast being served as the highlight of the Bard’s celebration four course meal.
“The‘immortal Memory’was given to the audience by Gregor Mcinnes, who provided a heartfelt, stirring and sincere homage to the life and works of Robert Burns.
“Gregor is well known for his passion and intimate knowledge on the works of the great bard, having started reciting Burns when he was at high school until now when he is currently a member of the Dollar Burns Club.
The Immortal Memory included details of Burns’early life in Ayrshire as well as his highland tour and visits to Stirling and the local area.
“The traditional recitations were given by Colin Ferguson, a new visitor to the Tartan Arms Burns Supper. Colin provided a first class rendition of the great Bard’s work, following which he provided the audience with an interactive recital of Holy Willie’s Prayer.
“Falkirk man and Cumbernauld Burns Club member Jim Mcarthur provided a humorous but thoughtful‘toast to the Lassies’, the style of which celebrated and revered the national bard.
“Jim was born in Stirling and very much considers himself a son of the rock. This humorous speech lightened up the evening and provided due homage to the lassies of Burns.
“Peter Brown, a retired bank manager and Falkirk Bairn, provided an enlightening‘toast to The Weavers’which was well delivered and allowed the audience to relax and enjoy a laugh about themselves and others, given the challenging past few years.
“Chris O’rourke from International Beverage Holdings, ensured that everyone had a‘wee dram’to raise a glass during the toasts of the evening.
“Music for the event was provided by local lads The Jacobites, in the form of Adrian Robertson and Ewan Kidd.
“Archie Mackay (Snr) delivered a well-deserved succinct vote of thanks.”