Burns Night

For Brenda and I this was our third Burns Night at the Club. It was a Damp night and the River was over the dip of the concrete launching area. The club House was welcoming and was invitingly warm and comfortable.

Coats off and to the barman Peter for the drinks. A bottle of red and orange juice for me as I was driving home. Tables are laid with bright red and tartan napkins. We were delayed in getting to our seats, as lots of catching up to do since our last visit.

Scotch Broth

Haggis (vegetarian if required)

Tatties and neaps with gravy

Tipsy Laird Trifle

Biscuits and cheese

Shortbread biscuit and coffee

Oh yes and a wee dram of whiskey

The fare was impressive to say the least and at £5 each was bordering on unbelievable.

Volunteers gave a reading - "Address to a Haggis" - the poem by Rabbie Burnsand. This is the third year I have not got a clue what it's all about.

The Haggis went on its usual journey accompanied by the music of the bag pipes and Leo. Grace. Then we all tucked in. Seconds for some. There was a toast which saw the wee dram off.

Before I knew it three hours had passed and George organised us to show our thanks for all the work that a few had taken, that so many of us could wallow in delight with full stomachs.

Stuart Schafer and Di & Phil Howley were front persons in all the above and for that all twenty six of us were truly grateful. They were helped by Anne & Leo Bond, Don & Helen Barnett and Joan Courtney.

John Panting

The catering team
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